Winter Traffic Safety Systems Operator 1

Winter Traffic Safety Systems Operator 1

Salary

$20.49 - $27.28 Hourly

Location

Kittitas County - Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Non-Permanent

Job Number

26DOT-SCR-Winter Area 1 TSSO1

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

08/24/2026

Closing Date

9/24/2026 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 dedicated professional to support safe and reliable travel on Snoqualmie Pass by coordinating critical communications between maintenance crews, the traveling public, and regional transportation operations. In this role, you will help monitor and support the systems that provide real-time roadway conditions, traffic information, and operational coordination. Your work will play an important role in helping crews respond effectively to changing highway conditions and maintaining safe travel for the public. This position directly supports WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options for Washington's communities and travelers.

What to Expect

The position actively gathers and communicates information with on-shift WSDOT units, partner agencies, and the public regarding roadway conditions, incidents, emergencies, and weather. It coordinates appropriate responses, keeps maintenance command personnel informed, and supports shift operations during emergency and unusual events. The position operates ITS equipment and communication systems, including 800 MHz radio, Highway Advisory Radio transmitters, Variable Message and speed-limit signs, traffic sensors, video systems, and computer applications used to provide timely travel information to the public.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Maintain contact with mobile units regarding emergencies, road and weather conditions, traction requirements, equipment needs, and snow and pass reports.
• Assist radio and maintenance personnel in recognizing and reporting potential problems and system malfunctions to support timely repairs.
• Transmit information to maintenance crews for emergency and routine repairs involving roads, signs, bridges, lights, signals, radios, cameras, and other mechanical equipment.
• Receive, evaluate, document, and disseminate roadway condition and incident information, including accidents, traffic hazards, disabled vehicles, dead animals, and public complaints.
• Receive information from the public by telephone and in person and initiate appropriate action in response to reported incidents and roadway concerns.
• Relay emergency information and coordinate assistance with law enforcement agencies, ambulances, tow trucks, fire departments, and other emergency responders as requested.
• Maintain records of available emergency personnel and equipment, dispatch resources as directed, and maintain the status of mobile units and related records.
• Receive and transmit statewide roadway, road restriction, weather, snow, pass, and avalanche control information between fixed stations and mobile units using computer and communication systems.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Crisis Communication Skills: Effectively communicates orally and in writing with internal and external stakeholders during high-pressure and emergency situations.
• Receptiveness to Feedback: Accepts and applies performance feedback in a constructive and professional manner to improve effectiveness.
• Radio and Telecommunication Equipment Operation: Demonstrates the ability to effectively operate telephone systems and 800 MHz radio communication equipment.
• Visual Monitoring and Attention to Detail: Monitors video and electronic control systems with strong attention to visual details and accuracy in computer data entry to assist in recognizing and reporting problems and system malfunctions.
• Incident Assessment and Situational Awareness: Monitors and evaluates multiple incidents, prioritizing tasks and recognizing patterns to anticipate operational needs while maintaining awareness of personal and co-worker safety. Assists in recognizing and reporting potential problems, receives and transmits information to maintenance and emergency crews, and maintains status of mobile units.
• Multimodal Communication Proficiency: Demonstrates the ability to accurately receive and comprehend verbal communication delivered via radio, telephone, or in person, ensuring clear and timely information exchange.
• Reliability and Punctuality: Demonstrates dependability by consistently reporting to work on time and adhering to assigned schedules.
• Growth Mindset - Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented - Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Project Management & Prioritization: Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects or assignments simultaneously, prioritizing workload, and meeting challenging deadlines.
• Technology Proficiency: Proficiency using electronic equipment, including computers, telephones, and other technology relevant to the duties of the position.
• Independent Work & Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize competing assignments, and maintain a high level of attention to detail to ensure work is completed accurately with few to no errors.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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-SCR-Winter Area 1 TSSO1) 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 operating telephone systems and 800 MHz radio communication equipment?

• I have extensive experience operating telephone systems and 800 MHz radio communication equipment in a high-volume or emergency/incident-response environment, including accurately receiving, transmitting, and relaying time-sensitive information.
• I have substantial experience operating telephone systems and 800 MHz radio communication equipment as part of my regular job duties, including communicating time-sensitive information to multiple parties.
• I have experience operating telephone systems and radio communication equipment to receive and transmit information as part of my job duties.
• I have limited experience operating telephone or radio communication equipment, primarily with routine communications.
• I have no work-related experience operating telephone systems or radio communication equipment.

02

Which best describes your experience receiving, comprehending, and accurately communicating information by radio, telephone, or in person?

• I have extensive experience receiving and communicating complex, time-sensitive information through multiple communication methods in high-pressure or emergency situations, with responsibility for ensuring information is accurately understood and relayed.
• I have substantial experience receiving and communicating time-sensitive information through radio, telephone, and in-person communication as part of my regular job duties.
• I have experience receiving and communicating information through radio, telephone, or in-person communication and accurately relaying information to others.
• I have limited experience communicating information through one or more of these methods, primarily in routine situations.
• I do not have work-related experience receiving, comprehending, and communicating information through these methods.

03

Which best describes your experience monitoring video, electronic, or computer-based systems to identify, document, and report problems or system malfunctions?

• I have extensive experience continuously monitoring multiple video, electronic, or computer-based systems, identifying abnormalities or malfunctions, accurately documenting information, and promptly reporting issues requiring action.
• I have substantial experience monitoring electronic or computer-based systems, recognizing problems or malfunctions, accurately entering information, and reporting issues to the appropriate personnel.
• I have experience monitoring electronic or computer-based systems and documenting or reporting identified problems.
• I have limited experience monitoring electronic or computer-based systems, primarily performing routine checks or data entry.
• I have no work-related experience monitoring electronic, video, or computer-based systems.

04

Which best describes your experience communicating orally and in writing with internal or external stakeholders during high-pressure, emergency, or rapidly changing situations?

• I have extensive experience communicating critical information during emergencies or high-pressure situations, adapting communication to the audience, documenting information accurately, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders.
• I have substantial experience communicating time-sensitive information during high-pressure situations and ensuring appropriate stakeholders receive accurate information.
• I have experience communicating with internal or external stakeholders during situations requiring timely or accurte information.
• I have limited experience communicating during high-pressure situations and generally rely on established procedures or direction.
• I have no work-related experience communicating during high-pressure or emergency situations.

05

Which best describes your experience monitoring multiple incidents, prioritizing competing tasks, and maintaining awareness of operational and safety needs?

• I have extensive experience simultaneously monitoring multiple incidents or activities, assessing changing conditions, prioritizing responses, identifying patterns or emerging needs, and maintaining awareness of personal and co-worker safety.
• I have substantial experience monitoring multiple incidents or activities, determining priorities, communicating updates, and adjusting actions as conditions change.
• I have experience monitoring incidents or activities, prioritizing tasks, and communicating relevant information to others.
• I have limited experience monitoring multiple activities or incidents and prioritizing tasks, primarily following established procedures.
• I have no work-related experience monitoring multiple incidents or activities.

06

Which best describes your work history related to reporting to work on time and adhering to assigned schedules?

• I consistently report to work on time, reliably meet assigned schedules, and have demonstrated dependability in positions requiring scheduled, shift-based, or time-sensitive coverage.
• I regularly report to work on time and adhere to assigned schedules, including schedules that may change based on operational needs.
• I generally report to work on time and follow assigned schedules with minimal supervision.
• I have limited experience working under fixed or assigned schedules.
• I have not had work responsibilities requiring adherence to an assigned work schedule.

07

Which best describes your experience receiving and applying feedback to improve your work performance?

• I regularly seek, receive, and apply feedback, independently identifying opportunities for improvement and adjusting my approach based on feedback and new information.
• I consistently accept constructive feedback professionally and apply it to improve the quality, efficiency, or effectiveness of my work.
• I have received and applied feedback from supervisors or coworkers to improve my performance.
• I have limited experience receiving feedback and generally apply it when specific changes are directed.
• I have not had work-related experience receiving or applying performance feedback.

08

Which best describes your experience taking action to meet the needs of coworkers, customers, stakeholders, or the public?

• I consistently anticipate needs, take initiative to resolve issues, and coordinate with others to provide timely and effective service, including during challenging or time-sensitive situations.
• I regularly take initiative to address customer or stakeholder needs, resolve issues within my authority, and follow through to completion.
• I have experience responding to requests, providing assistance, and taking appropriate action to meet the needs of others.
• I have limited experience providing service to others and generally respond when directed.
• I have no work-related experience in a service-oriented role.

09

Which best describes your experience managing multiple assignments simultaneously while working independently, prioritizing competing demands, meeting deadlines, and maintaining accuracy?

• I have extensive experience independently managing multiple complex assignments with competing deadlines, establishing priorities, tracking progress, and maintaining a high level of accuracy with minimal supervision.
• I have substantial experience managing multiple assignments simultaneously, adjusting priorities as needed, meeting challenging deadlines, and reviewing work for accuracy.
• I have experience managing multiple assignments, prioritizing workload, meeting established deadlines, and completing work accurately.
• I have limited experience managing multiple assignments at the same time and generally require direction when priorities change.
• I have no work-related experience managing multiple assignments or competing priorities.

10

Which best describes your experience using computers, telephones, electronic equipment, and other technology relevant to your work?

• I have extensive experience using multiple computers, telephone, electronic, and technology systems, including learning new systems, troubleshooting routine issues, and accurately entering and retrieving information.
• I have substantial experience using multiple technology systems and electronic equipment as a regular part of my job duties, including adapting to new technology.
• I have experience using computers, telephones, electronic equipment, and other technology to complete routine job duties.
• I have limited experience using workplace technology and primarily perform basic functions with established procedures.
• I have no work-related experience using computers, telephones, or electronic equipment.

11

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)

12

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