Transportation Technician 3 (In-Training)

Transportation Technician 3 (In-Training)

Salary

$48,808.00 - $88,788.00 Annually

Location

Yakima County - Union Gap, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-SCR-50075

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

09/08/2026

Closing Date

9/25/2026 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 seeking a skilled and motivated Transportation Technician 3 (In-Training) to join our team in Union Gap, WA! This position plays a key role in supporting the South Central Region's (SCR) highway construction program by helping ensure project information, funding, schedules, and reporting remain accurate, timely, and up to date. As part of the Program Management team's Project Controls function, you'll work closely with managers, engineers, project teams, and reporting offices to monitor active projects and help keep the program moving forward.

This is a dynamic role for someone who enjoys working with data, solving problems, and keeping complex projects organized. You'll maintain project information in program management systems and databases, assist with monitoring project funds and spending plans, track changes to project scope, schedule, and budget, and provide timely information to Region and Headquarters staff. Your attention to detail will be essential as you identify inconsistencies, review information for accuracy, and help answer time-sensitive program management questions. As the skilled journey level in the Transportation Technician series, you'll be expected to use initiative, sound judgment, and strong organizational skills to successfully manage multiple assignments while following established policies, procedures, and standards.

What to Expect

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

• Assist and coordinate SCR Project Control efforts and duties.
• Assist with preparation of work orders authorizing state, federal and local funds, including complicated projects with multiple system identifiers, subprojects, local investments, and multiple agreements.
• Assist with work order new set ups, increases, decreases, transfers, group and work order closures, balancing to actual and other processes.
• Assist with review of HQ setup of work orders and new groups for accuracy.
• Assist in inputting and maintaining project information into current Program Management software/programs.
• Assist with review of federal funding.
• Assist with maintaining and updating the Activity Schedule.
• Assist with the development and updating of region workforce projections working directly with supervisor, region program management, and region executive management.

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, the following competencies are required:

• Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience. Ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world scenarios. Knowledge of the basic principles of project budgeting and scheduling.
• Effective Time Management: Can manage and monitor multiple and consistently changing assignments, proactively manage own workload and plan/oversee the work of others, complete tasks by scheduled deadlines while accommodating unexpected work on short notice.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to complete work accurately with attention to details and the capability to review their own work and the work of others for accuracy and completeness.
• Commitment to learning: Willingness to learn, retain, apply and master data entry, review, and editing skills of multiple computer and electronic program management and budgeting related programs utilized by the Program Management Office.
• Technical & Digital Proficiency: Ability to utilize advanced functions of software tools and applications such as the Microsoft Office Suite, COGNOS, TRAINS 4.0, TEIS, FIRS, and Unifier (including Capital Connect).
• Team-Oriented: Possess interpersonal skills to work as part of a team with the ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, analyzing and interpreting contract plans, specifications, estimates, manuals and related documents in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards.
• Communication and Interpersonal Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information clearly to a variety of stakeholders including engineers, contractors, and the public. Program Management Knowledge: Familiarity with program management principles, practices and statewide program delivery processes and policies.
• Research and Analytical Skills/Abilities: Ability to interpret and apply design and construction manuals, standards and specifications to support transportation project development and documentation.

Important Notes

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

• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

• 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. The base salaries for each level are:

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

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

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

• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Transportation Technician 3 #50075 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

Which best describes your experience applying civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation engineering, or related principles, including basic project budgeting and scheduling?

• I have extensive experience applying engineering principles to complex transportation, construction, or infrastructure projects, including evaluating project costs, schedules, and related impacts.
• I have experience applying engineering concepts to transportation, construction, or infrastructure projects and have worked with basic project budgets, schedules, or cost information.
• I have limited experience applying engineering concepts or working with project budgets and schedules, generally under the direction of experienced staff.
• I have education or training in engineering or a related field but limited practical experience applying these concepts.
• I have no education, training, or experience applying engineering concepts, project budgeting, or scheduling.

02

Which best describes your experience reviewing work for accuracy, completeness, and consistency?

• I regularly review my own work and the work of others, identify discrepancies or inconsistencies, determine appropriate corrections, and ensure final work is accurate and complete.
• I regularly review my own work and occasionally review the work of others for accuracy and completeness.
• I routinely review my own work for errors and completeness before submitting it.
• I have limited experience reviewing work for accuracy or completeness.
• I have no experience performing accuracy or completeness reviews.

03

Which best describes your experience reading, interpreting, and applying contract plans, specifications, estimates, manuals, or other technical documents?

• I independently interpret complex plans, specifications, estimates, and technical documents; identify discrepancies or potential issues; and apply the information to support project decisions or resolve problems.
• I regularly interpret plans, specifications, estimates, manuals, or related technical documents to perform project or construction-related work.
• I have some experience reviewing technical documents and using the information to complete assigned work, generally with guidance.
• I have education or training that included exposure to plans, specifications, or technical documents but limited practical experience.
• I have no experience interpreting plans, specifications, estimates, or other technical documents.

04

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

• I regularly communicate complex technical or project information to engineers, contractors, managers, the public, or other stakeholders; adapt my communication to the audience; and facilitate resolution of questions or concerns.
• I regularly communicate technical or project information to a variety of internal or external stakeholders and respond to questions about my work.
• I have experience communicating technical or project-related information to coworkers, customers, or other stakeholders, generally within my area of responsibility.
• I have limited experience communicating technical information to individuals outside my immediate work group.
• I have no experience communicating technical or project-related information to others.

05

Which best describes your experience with program management, project controls, or statewide/local program delivery processes?

• I have extensive experience supporting or managing transportation or infrastructure programs, including monitoring project scope, schedule, budget, risks, and/or program-level reporting.
• I have experience supporting project or program management activities, including tracking project information, budgets, schedules, deliverables, or reporting.
• I have limited experience supporting projects or programs and have assisted with tracking information, schedules, budgets, or deliverables under direction.
• I have education or training related to project or program management but limited practical experience.
• I have no experience with project or program management.

06

Which best describes your experience researching and applying manuals, standards, specifications, policies, or other technical guidance to complete work or resolve project questions?

• I independently research and interpret multiple sources of technical guidance, standards, specifications, and policies; analyze the information; and determine how it applies to complex project or construction issues.
• I regularly research and apply manuals, standards, specifications, or policies to complete project or construction-related work and resolve questions.
• I have experience researching technical guidance and applying established standards or procedures to assigned work, generally with direction.
• I have education or training that included researching or interpreting technical standards or specifications but limited practical experience.
• I have no experience researching or applying technical manuals, standards, specifications, or related guidance.

07

Which best describes your experience maintaining, monitoring, and analyzing project information such as scope, schedule, budget, expenditures, or project status?

• I have extensive experience independently monitoring project controls and analyzing scope, schedule, budget, expenditures, and project status across multiple projects or a program, identifying issues and providing recommendations or reports to management.
• I have experience maintaining and monitoring project information, including budgets, schedules, expenditures, scope changes, or project status, and providing updates or reports to project staff or management.
• I have assisted with maintaining project data, tracking budgets or schedules, or preparing project reports under the direction of experienced staff.
• I have limited exposure to project controls, project data, budgeting, scheduling, or reporting through education or work experience.
• I have no experience with project controls, project data, budgeting, scheduling, or project reporting.

08

| How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

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

09

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