Traffic Safety Engineer - Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)



Traffic Safety Engineer - Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

Salary

$55,524.00 - $82,344.00 Annually

Location

Clark County – Vancouver, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

22DOT-SWR-41127

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Southwest Region

Opening Date

04/11/2022

Closing Date

4/27/2022 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 looking for an enthusiastic engineer who has a passion for creative and innovative solutions for the state-highway transportation system. We are looking for an entry-level or mid-level engineer who wants to dive into all elements of traffic analysis and operations. The selected candidate will be responsible for performing technical tasks related to traffic operations and traffic design, as well as assisting in field site assessments. Utilizing your operations knowledge, you will respond to both internal and external safety related concerns. This position plays a key role in contributing safe and efficient operations of state highways, as well as creating low-cost project enhancement ideas. Be a part of a team whose mission is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options for all modes of transportation for our communities and stakeholders.

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

  • Provide support for Traffic Safety section independently interpreting manuals, policies, standards, regulations, and guidelines on all traffic related elements and applies knowledge to ensure compliance during solution development and traffic reviews.
  • Independently research regulations, standards, and guidelines with experts and update staff and all pertinent stakeholders.
  • Act as a liaison for all bike and pedestrian related internal & external questions.
  • Review bike and pedestrian related crashes and identify applicable countermeasures.
  • Serve as liaison between the Traffic Office and maintenance regarding signs as to placement, type, and size of signs and assist them with maintaining accurate sign inventory records.
  • Perform sign field reviews for construction, developer, and local agency projects and coordinate inventorying of new signs.
  • Assist Traffic Design with regulations, standards, and guidelines for all signing and channelization related projects.
  • Perform plan reviews and recommend modifications for all projects containing traffic items such as pavement markings and signing prepared by internal WSDOT teams, cities, counties, and consultants for construction on state highways.
  • Review all minor operational enhancement projects proposed ensuring they meet current regulations, standards, and guidelines.
  • Conduct traffic studies including speed, gap, sight distance, and operational reviews regarding signal, signing, and channelization. 
  • Maintain various databases to track inventory and data necessary to evaluate current conditions 
  • Communicate proficiently, both orally and in writing, and work in a cooperative and courteous manner with the public, contractors, supervisors, local agencies, and other department staff.
  • Develop practical solutions to complex issues.
 
Qualifications
This position has been approved for in-training; therefore, it may be filled at the Transportation Engineer 1 or 2 level.  
 
Required qualifications for a Transportation Engineer 1 are:
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or transportation engineering.
 
Required qualifications for a Transportation Engineer 2 include one of the following:
  • Two (2) years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Technician 3 or equivalent experience; OR
  • Certification as an Engineer-In-Training AND one (1) year of experience as a Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Technician 3 or equivalent experience; OR
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience. 
 
In addition to the above qualifications, candidates at any level are required to have: 
  • Ability to drive a motorized vehicle and maintain a valid driver’s license.
  • Demonstrated detailed knowledge and expertise for bike/pedestrian related issues and apply specialist skills to problem solving and resolving the issues.
  • Demonstrated detailed knowledge and expertise for traffic regulation, standards, and guideline related issues and apply specialist skills to problem solving and resolving the issues.
  • Ability to learn new techniques quickly and learn from any mistakes or success encountered and apply those going forward.
  • The ability to traverse uneven terrain for field site assessments and relocate equipment up to 50 lbs.
 
Preferred qualifications are: 
  • Two (2) years of traffic operations or transportation engineering related experience.
  • Two (2) years of bicycle and pedestrian related engineering experience.
  • Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) certified.
  • Act on own initiative without being prompted and be comfortable handling issues with minimal guidance.
  • Builds rapport and cooperative relationships with all internal/external customers and Traffic Operations team.
  • Produce innovative and practical solutions.
  • Use analytical skills to generate a range of solutions to issues.
 
Important Notes
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • 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. Compliance with this mandate is a condition of employment with WSDOT. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.  
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system. 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 10 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, Rachel Giese at GieseR@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 22DOT-SWR-41127 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
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or closely related field of study (or will obtain within 6 months)?
  • Yes
  • No
02
Do you have a Certification as an Engineer-In-Training or have passed the FE exam?
  • Yes
  • No
03
How many years of experience do you have in transportation engineering, such as a Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Technician 3, or equivalent experience?
  • More than 10 years
  • 7-10 years
  • 5-7 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 1-2 years
  • Less than 1 year
04
How many years of bicycle and pedestrian related engineering experience do you have?
  • More than 10 years
  • 7-10 years
  • 5-7 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 1-2 years
  • Less than 1 year
05
How many years of traffic operations or traffic engineering related experience do you have?
  • More than 10 years
  • 7-10 years
  • 5-7 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 1-2 years
  • Less than 1 year
06
Do you possess a Flagger Certification and/or Traffic Control Supervisor Certification?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Briefly describe your prior professional or educational experience with traffic safety and/or operations.
08
Briefly describe your prior professional or educational experience with presentations, reports, or documentation.
09
Do you have the ability to perform field site assessment and traverse uneven terrain?
  • Yes
  • No
10
Are you able and willing to manipulate and transport up to 50 pounds of equipment and tools?
11
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
12
Please list your license number and any restrictions.
13
By issuance of proclamation, the Governor of Washington State mandates that all WSDOT employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position. Are you willing to accept and comply with this condition of employment?
  • Yes
  • No
14
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an employment visa? NOTE: For purposes of this question "sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit" means "an H-IB visa petition, an 0-1 visa petition, an E-3 visa petition, TN status and 'job flexibility benefits' (also known as 1-140 portability or Adjustment of Status portability) for long-delayed adjustment of status applications that have been pending for 180 days or longer." Please ask us if you are uncertain whether you may need immigration sponsorship or desire clarification.
  • Yes
  • No
15
If you have a visa, how much time remains on your current visa?
16
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)
17
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