Transportation Technician 3 (In-Training)

Transportation Technician 3 (In-Training)

Salary

$50,450.00 - $93,227.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-NWR-13442

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Northwest Region

Opening Date

07/01/2026

Closing Date

7/9/2026 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 3 to support the delivery of highway construction projects through materials testing, construction inspection, and contract administration activities. In this role, you will perform and document materials testing, evaluate test results, and assist with ensuring construction work complies with contract plans, specifications, and environmental commitments. This position plays a key role in verifying the quality of transportation infrastructure and supporting the successful delivery of projects that serve Washingtons communities. The work performed helps ensure transportation facilities are constructed safely, accurately, and in accordance with established standards.

What to Expect

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

• Perform industry-standard materials testing on asphalt, concrete, soil, aggregate, grout, and other construction materials to verify compliance with project requirements.
• Conduct laboratory and field tests, including asphalt content, maximum density, proctor density, sieve analysis, sand equivalent, moisture content, yield, slump, and air content testing.
• Operate specialized testing equipment, including a nuclear densometer, to evaluate material density and quality.
• Inspect asphalt and concrete plant operations by observing production processes, verifying equipment and procedures, performing materials testing, and completing required documentation.
• Collect material samples, record test data, and interpret test results to support construction quality verification activities.
• Verify sampling and testing procedures using the WSDOT Construction Manual and established industry standards.
• Assist with construction inspection activities by monitoring contractor work, documenting project activities, tracking material quantities, and reporting compliance concerns.
• Safely operate agency vehicles, transport testing equipment across varied terrain and weather conditions, and perform other duties in support of project delivery.

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.

Transportation Technician 3 Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to apply complex engineering and mathematical principles to plan, execute, and evaluate technical tasks.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to manage data collection and analysis processes for multiple projects, and the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to manage priorities across multiple tasks or projects, collaborate with others, and implement effective solutions to changing conditions.

Transportation Technician 2 In-Training Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to independently apply engineering and mathematical principles to perform technical tasks, interpret results, and troubleshoot routine issues on transportation projects.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to independently collect, analyze, and summarize data, identify trends or discrepancies, and provide information to support project decisions.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to work independently or in teams, adjust to shifting priorities, and maintain accuracy while supporting group objectives.

Transportation Technician 1 In-Training Qualifications:

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Skills: Ability to apply basic engineering and mathematical principles (e.g., algebra, geometry, construction math) under supervision to support tasks such as drafting, surveying, plan development, or data collection.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Ability to gather, record, and organize data under supervision, following established procedures.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Ability to contribute to team tasks under guidance, follow instructions, and learn to adapt to changing priorities.

In addition to the above (applies to all levels - TT1, TT2 & TT3):

• Communication Skills: Demonstrated strong oral and written communication abilities, with the capacity to convey technical and non-technical information clearly and effectively across diverse audiences.
• Technical Interpretation: Proficient in reading, understanding, and interpreting engineering specifications, drawings, and technical documentation to ensure accurate application in field and office settings.
• Mathematical and Analytical Skills: Skilled in applying mathematical principles and formulas to solve engineering and technical problems accurately and efficiently.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Ability to independently transport equipment and materials up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to work all shifts, including evening, weekends, nights, or overtime as needed.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Certifications: Qualified WAQTC HMA tester and/or Certification as an Engineer-In-Training.
• Construction Inspection and Quality Assurance: Experience testing materials and inspecting construction activities for conformance with contract requirements.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Proficiency: Experience using CAD.

Important Notes

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

• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.

• This position is not eligible for remote work.

• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.

• This is an in-training opportunity that provides a structured career path, hands-on learning, and mentorship. The position offers the opportunity to develop technical knowledge and skills while progressing through the Transportation Technician series toward the goal class of Transportation Technician 3. Candidates may be considered for appointment as a Transportation Technician 1, 2, or 3, depending on their qualifications. Annual salary levels for each position are:

• Transportation Technician 1: $50,450 - $67,737

• Transportation Technician 2: $59,799 - $80,438

• Transportation Technician 3: $69,375 - $93,227

• 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 their 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 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 listed Recruiter.

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.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at yasmin.munoz@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-13442 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

Select the option that best describes your experience applying engineering and mathematical principles to transportation or engineering-related work.

• Advanced - Independently applies engineering and mathematical principles to plan, execute, and evaluate complex technical tasks; interprets results; and resolves technical issues on transportation or engineering projects.
• Intermediate - Independently applies engineering and mathematical principles to perform technical tasks, interpret results, and troubleshoot routine issues on transportation or engineering projects.
• Basic - Applies basic engineering and mathematical principles under supervision to support drafting, surveying, plan development, construction inspection, data collection, or similar engineering activities.
• None of the above

02

Briefly describe your experience applying engineering or mathematical principles in coursework, field work, project work, or professional experience. Include the types of projects or technical work you supported. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

03

Select the option that best describes your experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting engineering or technical data.

• Advanced - Independently manages data collection and analysis activities for multiple projects, interprets complex data sets, identifies trends, and supports engineering or project decisions.
• Intermediate - Independently collects, analyzes, summarizes, and interprets engineering or technical data and identifies trends or discrepancies.
• Basic - Collects, records, and organizes engineering or technical data under supervision following established procedures.
• None of the above

04

Briefly describe your experience collecting, analyzing, organizing, or interpreting engineering, survey, inspection, laboratory, or project data. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

05

Select the option that best describes your experience working independently and as part of a team while managing changing priorities.

• Advanced - Independently manages multiple projects or priorities, collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, and develops effective solutions to changing conditions.
• Intermediate - Works independently or collaboratively, adjusts priorities as needed, and consistently supports project objectives.
• Basic - Contributes to team assignments under supervision, follows established procedures, and adapts to changing priorities with guidance.
• None of the above

06

Briefly describe your experience balancing multiple assignments, collaborating with others, or adapting to changing priorities. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

07

Select the option that best describes your experience reading and interpreting engineering plans, specifications, drawings, or technical documents.

• Advanced - Independently interprets engineering plans, specifications, drawings, and technical documents and applies them to field or office engineering activities.
• Intermediate - Reads and interprets engineering documents with occasional guidance.
• Basic - Limited experience reading engineering plans or technical documents.
• None of the above

08

Briefly describe your experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, drawings, or technical documents. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

09

Select the option that best describes your communication experience.

• Advanced - Regularly communicates technical and non-technical information clearly to diverse audiences through written and verbal communication.
• Intermediate - Communicates effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and customers in professional settings.
• Basic - Limited experience communicating technical information.
• None of the above

10

Briefly describe your experience communicating technical or project-related information to others. If you do not have this experience, type "N/A".

11

Do you possess a valid drivers license and have the ability to operate state-owned vehicles?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you able to independently transport equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

13

Are you able to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain?

• Yes
• No

14

Are you able to work all shifts, including evenings, weekends, nights, and overtime as needed?

• Yes
• No

15

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)

16

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