Design/Construction Technician (TT3 In-Training)



Design/Construction Technician (TT3 In-Training)

Salary

$39,528.00 - $74,604.00 Annually

Location

Multiple Locations - Western Washington, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

21DOT-SWR-40113

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

10/25/2021

Closing Date

11/29/2021 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project.
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking several versatile engineering technicians to fill Design/Construction Technician vacancies throughout the Southwest Region to include offices in Chehalis, Kelso & Vancouver, WA. In these roles, you will support WSDOT’s mission by ensuring highway construction projects are designed and constructed in compliance with standard specifications, contract specifications and contract plans. We are looking for entry or mid-level engineering technicians, who want to grow and broaden their experience in transportation engineering. The Design/Construction Technicians will be responsible for performing field site assessments, preparing scoping project definitions, assisting with design and the development of plans, specifications, and estimates, inspecting construction projects, testing materials, and other duties necessary to ensure that WSDOT projects are designed and constructed according to established standards and specifications, on time, and on budget. These positions will provide you with the ability to experience working in varied environments, such as out in the field, in an office atmosphere, and in the laboratory.
 
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Design/Construction Technicians will:

  • Interpret highway construction plans, specifications, and special provisions. 
  • Assist in stake out of alignment, alignment control, and location survey work and/or construction staking using manual and/or electronic data collection procedures. 
  • Review quality, measures and calculates quantities, and prepares notes to support pay estimates.
  • Prepare accurate daily records of the contractor’s work, force account sheets and other documentation.
  • Operate state vehicle to travel to construction site, materials laboratories, sampling locations, and other construction related locations.
  • Gather samples of materials in the field; manipulate and/or transport materials and equipment to and from the field; perform material testing.
  • Set up and maintain physical and electronic project design file system and files. 
  • Assist in preparing design documentation, calculations, reports, contract documents, etc. using field data and following design manual criteria. 
  • Use computer aided engineering software to provide drafting support to engineer, developing engineering designs and plans for design reports, permits, right-of-way plans, contract plans, etc.
  • Assist in preparing professional letters, reports, and other required documentation for the public and other external customers.
 
Qualifications
These are Transportation Technician 3 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions at a lower level, a Transportation Technician 2, or a Transportation Technician 1, depending on qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
 
At the Transportation Technician 1 level, the follow is required:
  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent.
 
At the Transportation Technician 2 level, one of the following is required: 
  • Associates degree in civil engineering, surveying, drafting or other closely related fields from an accredited university; OR
  • Graduation from high school or GED equivalent AND two (2) years of experience performing basic technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 1 or equivalent; OR   
  • Three (3) years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker.
 
At the Transportation Technician 3 level, one of the following is required: 
  • Bachelor’s Degree with major study in civil engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, traffic, transportation, or a closely related field; OR 
  • Two (2) years of experience as a TT2 or equivalent; OR 
  • Certification as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT).
 
In addition to the above, the following qualifications are also required: 
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • WSDOT General Inspector certification, or ability to obtain within the first twelve (12) months of hire.
  • Flagging Card, or ability to obtain within the first (6) six months of hire.
  • Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within the first twelve (12) months of hire.
  • Ability to work in an outdoor environment to include all weather conditions, navigating uneven terrain, confined spaces, noise, airborne dust, heights and next to traffic.
  • Ability to manipulate and transport up to 50 pounds of various materials and equipment.
  • Communication skills, both written and oral to interact with diverse populations.
  • A high-level of awareness and attention to safety.
  • Ability to interpret engineering plans and specifications.
 
It is preferredthat qualified candidates also have:
  • Proficiency using Microsoft Office, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  • Willingness and enthusiasm to work with CADD products including MicroStation and InRoads.
  • Experience communicating proficiently, both orally and in writing, and work in a cooperative and courteous manner with the public, contractors, supervisors, and other department staff. 
  • Experience accepting direction and constructive criticism from lead workers and supervisors. 
  • Ability to: 
    • Understand and follow WSDOT policies, standards, and procedures. 
    • Accurately fill out agency forms.
    • Perform on-site inspections.
    • Sample and test materials for construction projects.
    • Perform and verify calculations.
    • Research as-builts, collect field data, and interpret plans.
 
Important Notes 
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted November 8, 2021. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible. 
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs throughout the Southwest Region which includes Chehalis, Kelso and Vancouver.
  • This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Transportation Technician 3 level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to also be considered as a Transportation Technician 1 or Transportation Technician 2,if not qualified at the highest  level. The annual salaries for each level are included below. 
    • Transportation Technician 1: $39,528 – $52,776
    • Transportation Technician 2: $48,996 – $65,928 
    • Transportation Technician 3: $55,524 – $74,604
 
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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 11 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Robyn Lovely at LovelyR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 21DOT-SWR-40113 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. That's 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022

01
Which location(s) are you interested in?
  • Chehalis
  • Kelso
  • Vancouver
02
Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education:
  • I have a Master's degree or higher.
  • I have a Bachelor's degree.
  • I have an Associate's degree.
  • I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • None of the above
03
If you indicated you have a degree in the question above, please list your degree field.
04
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience performing basic technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 1 or equivalent.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
05
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience performing semi-skilled technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 2 or equivalent.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have 2 – 3 years of this experience.
  • I have less than two (2) years of this experience.
06
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker or equivalent.
  • I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
  • I have 7 – 10 years of this experience.
  • I have 5 – 7 years of this experience.
  • I have 3 – 5 years of this experience.
  • I have less than three (3) years of this experience.
07
If your experience in the questions above is equivalent, please explain your experience. This experience should also be listed in the work history section of your application.
08
Do you have a valid driver's license? Yes No
  • Yes
  • No
09
Please provide your driver's license number and list any restrictions:
10
Please select which certification(s) you have:
  • WSDOT General Inspector certification
  • Certification as an Engineer?In?Training (EIT)
  • Flagging Card
  • Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification
  • None of the above
11
Are you able and willing to work in outdoor environments to include all weather conditions, navigating uneven terrain, and adjacent to traffic?
  • Yes
  • No
12
Are you able and willing flexibility to adjust work schedule to coincide with contractor activities including the ability to travel as needed, work nights, long hours, and/or out of town?
  • Yes
  • No
13
Are you able to transport, manipulate, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?
  • Yes
  • No
14
By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all employees who work for executive cabinet agencies (which includes the Department of Transportation) must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No
15
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • APWA
  • 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

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact