Transportation Technician 3 In Training

Transportation Technician 3 In Training

Salary

$48,048.00 - $88,788.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County - Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-OR-32192

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

09/30/2026

Closing Date

10/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Technician to support survey activities for the Olympic Region and Right of Way Plans Office. In this role, you will help provide accurate, high-quality survey data that serves as the foundation for engineering and construction plans across Washington's transportation system. Your work will directly contribute to the safety, quality, capacity, and long-term resilience of transportation infrastructure while supporting WSDOT's commitment to responsible stewardship. This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on safe, reliable transportation for communities throughout Washington.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Technician 3 will:

• Perform survey fieldwork under supervision, setting horizontal and vertical control and compiling field notes for surveying activities.
• Operate Total Station, Data Collector, GNSS, RTK, WSRN, level, and other survey instrument to collect topographic data.
• Perform right-of-way staking, locate monument, and conduct construction staking as instructed.
• Safely use hand tools and power equipment to clear lines of sight and access pathways to survey locations; load, unload, maintain, and adjust survey equipment.
• Download and upload survey data between Personal Computers and Data Collectors; edit, merge, organize, and maintain daily files in appropriate folders for records retention.
• Collaborate with the team lead to review survey data and produce quality survey deliverables; take manual notes or records data using a Data Collector.
• Serve as Party Lead when assigned and assist with training new crew members.
• Support survey operations by reproducing, organizing, maintaining, and achieving engineering documents; assists with project research and documentation and maintain survey vans and equipment storage areas.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.

To be considered for this opportunity, one of the following is required:

Transportation Technician 1:

• Basic Technical Skills: Basic technical skills and/or knowledge of mathematics, construction, engineering or surveying in support of transportation projects. This includes tasks such as the ability to perform basic math, follow written and verbal instructions, and use basic survey field equipment.

Transportation Technician 2:

• Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Technical skills and/or knowledge of engineering principles in support of transportation projects. This includes tasks such as surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design, and maintaining project records to ensure compliance with applicable standards and specifications.

Note: Foundational knowledge may be supported by formal classroom training.

Transportation Technician 3:

• Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Demonstrated skills in independently applying technical engineering principles in support of transportation projects. This includes tasks such as surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design, and maintaining project records to ensure compliance with applicable standards and specifications.

Note: Demonstrated knowledge may be supported by formal classroom training and/ or credentials such as Engineering-in-Training (EIT) certification or a Land Surveyor's License (LSIT) certification.

In addition to the above, the following are also required at any level:

• Vehicle Operation for Fieldwork: Possession of an unrestricted valid driver's license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
• Field Reporting, Documentation, & Communication: Skills to prepare accurate and timely daily field reports based on direct field observations and inspection activities and check engineering calculations for accuracy and completeness.
• Technology Proficiency: Knowledge of engineering, surveying software and operating Windows-based computer systems and software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook). Knowledge and skills relating to the operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of survey equipment used for the development of complex transportation projects in the office and in the field.
• Communication Skills: Skills to communicate technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, telephonically, and in-person.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Skills to work productively in a team environment under tight deadlines and shifting priorities, producing accurate and consistent results. Knowledge of safe working practices in traffic and field, along with a proven ability to adhere to safety protocols.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growing knowledge of principles and practices of highway surveying and engineering.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others in a diverse team setting.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Civil Engineering and Surveying Education and Certification: Two-year college degree in Civil Engineering or Surveying. Land Surveyor in Training certification.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

• This is a Transportation Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.

• Transportation Technician 3: $66,072 - $88,788

• Transportation Technician 2: $56,952 - $76,608

• Transportation Technician 1: $48,048 - $64,512

• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the recruiter listed.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32192 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Do you possess an unrestricted, valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions?

• Yes - I possess an unrestricted, valid driver's license and can operate state-owned vehicles for required fieldwork.
• No

02

Which best describes your education, training, or experience applying engineering or surveying principles in support of transportation projects?

• I independently apply engineering or surveying principles to complex transportation projects, including surveying, drafting, engineering design, structural detailing, or maintaining project records for compliance with standards and specifications.
• I independently perform technical engineering or surveying tasks on transportation projects with limited guidance.
• I perform technical engineering or surveying tasks under general supervision and apply established standards and procedures.
• I have foundational knowledge of engineering or surveying principles gained through formal coursework, training, or limited practical experience.
• I have no formal education, training, or work experience applying engineering or surveying principles.

03

Which of the following best describes your civil engineering or surveying education and certification?

• I possess a two-year college degree in Civil Engineering or Surveying and an LSIT certification.
• I possess a two-year college degree in Civil Engineering or Surveying.
• I possess an LSIT certification.
• I have completed college-level coursework or formal training in Civil Engineering or Surveying but do not possess a two-year degree or LSIT certification.
• I do not have formal education, training, or certification in Civil Engineering or Surveying.

04

Which best describes your experience performing technical engineering or surveying work in support of transportation projects?

• I independently perform and document complex surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design, or related technical work and ensure work complies with applicable standards and specifications.
• I independently perform a variety of technical engineering or surveying tasks and maintain project records with limited direction.
• I perform technical engineering or surveying tasks using established procedures, standards, and specifications with periodic guidance.
• I have assisted with technical engineering or surveying tasks through coursework, training, or entry-level work experience.
• I have no experience performing technical engineering or surveying work.

05

Which best describes your experience using mathematics, following technical instructions, and operating basic survey or engineering field equipment?

• I routinely and independently perform mathematical calculations, interpret technical instructions, and operate a variety of survey or engineering field equipment.
• I regularly perform mathematical calculations, follow technical instructions, and operate basic survey or engineering field equipment with limited guidance.
• I perform basic calculations, follow written and verbal instructions, and use basic field equipment under supervision.
• I have developed foundational skills through formal coursework, training, or limited practical experience.
• I have no formal training or experience in these areas.

06

Which best describes your experience preparing field documentation and verifying technical information?

• I independently prepare accurate and timely daily field reports based on direct observations and routinely check engineering calculations and documentation for accuracy and completeness.
• I regularly prepare field reports and review technical calculations or documentation with limited direction.
• I prepare field reports and technical documentation using established procedures and templates under supervision.
• I have assisted with field documentation or technical recordkeeping through coursework, training, or limited work experience.
• I have no experience preparing field reports or reviewing technical documentation.

07

Which best describes your experience using engineering or surveying technology and Windows-based computer systems?

• I independently operate, troubleshoot, and maintain survey equipment and routinely use engineering or surveying software and MS Office applications, including Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook.
• I regularly operate survey equipment and engineering or surveying software and use multiple MS Office applications with limited assistance.
• I use survey equipment, engineering or surveying software, and MS Office applications to complete assigned tasks under general supervision.
• I have received formal training or classroom instruction in engineering/surveying technology or MS Office applications but have limited practical experience.
• I have no experience or training using engineering/surveying technology or Windows-based computer systems.

08

Which best describes your experience communicating technical information to people with different levels of technical knowledge?

• I routinely explain complex technical information clearly and professionally to technical and non-technical audiences in person, virtually, and by telephone.
• I regularly communicate technical information to diverse audiences and adjust explanations based on the audience's level of understanding.
• I communicate routine technical information to coworkers, project partners, or the public using established procedures and guidance.
• I have developed technical communication skills through coursework, training, or limited work experience.
• I have no experience communicating technical information to others.

09

Which best describes your experience working in a team environment while managing changing priorities, deadlines, and field safety requirements?

• I independently manage competing priorities and deadlines, consistently produce accurate work, collaborate effectively with diverse team members, and adhere to required field and traffic safety protocols.
• I regularly balance changing priorities and deadlines, maintain accurate work, and follow established field and traffic safety requirements with limited direction.
• I work effectively as part of a team, adjust to changing assignments, meet established deadlines, and follow safety procedures under supervision.
• I have developed teamwork, adaptability, and safety skills through coursework, training, or limited work experience.
• I have no experience working in a team environment with changing priorities or field safety requirements.

10

| How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

11

| If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov