Highway Avalanche Forecaster & Control Specialist 2



Highway Avalanche Forecaster & Control Specialist 2

Salary

$54,492.00 - $73,260.00 Annually

Location

Kittitas County – Other, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

22DOT-SCR-50406

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

South Central Region

Opening Date

08/30/2022

Closing Date

9/13/2022 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



*Updated Salary*

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:
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has an exciting opportunity for an Avalanche Forecast & Control Specialist for the South Central Region. The Highway Avalanche Forecaster along with the Forecast and Control Team manage snow and avalanche related risks on our state highways through effective and efficient management of snow and avalanche related risks.
 
What to Expect 
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

  • Perform daily and interval observations regarding weather, snow, snow structure, and avalanche conditions.
  • Combine pertinent information from these and field observations for formulation of an avalanche hazard forecast.
  • Climb and ski to remote sites to perform prescribed test methods.
  • Record weather observations from remote stations. 
  • Enter and maintain weather and snow data.
  • Examine and analyze weather forecasts and predictive models. 
  • Compose daily weather and avalanche outlook for WSDOT distribution.
  • Databasing of records and atmospheric data.
  • Use explosives in hand-placed and remote delivery applications for intentional release of avalanches to reduce overall avalanche hazard. 
  • Perform work via snow cat, skis, and/or climbing. 
  • Employ ski-cutting techniques as needed.
 
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Valid Washington State Commercial Driver’s License must be maintained (Minimum Class B w/o air brake restriction and with hazardous materials endorsement) (Obtain within 6 months of date of hire).
  • Valid Washington State Explosives Users Licenses must be maintained (obtain within 6 months of date of hire).
  • Ability to operate vehicles, over the snow vehicles, and occasionally operate heavy equipment.
  • Ability and knowledge of safe handling and use of explosives.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Knowledge and ability to operate a computer effectively utilizing common office software and do so with minimal errors.
  • Knowledge and application of modern avalanche and weather forecasting techniques, including the collection of snowpack and weather observations following SWAG guidelines.
  • Ability and knowledge to perform avalanche rescues.
  • Ability to climb towers, ladders, and work at heights.
  • Ability to travel safely and competently in mountainous terrain on skis and by foot, up to 3000 vertical feet per day, in deep snow while carrying a backpack weighing up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to respond quickly and accurately to ambiguous situations in a dynamic environment.
 
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Sciences with a concentration in Physics, Engineering, Meteorology, Physical Geography, Hydrology, or closely related field.  
  • Three (3) full-time winter seasons performing avalanche control, forecasting as a professional ski patroller, highway avalanche forecaster, or employed by an avalanche center.  
  • Artillery training per Avalanche Artillery Users North America Committee (AAUNAC) training standards. 
  • Advanced level avalanche education per American Avalanche Association guidelines for professional avalanche workers.
  • Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training.
  • Experience with weather station sensors and systems, particularly Campbell Scientific, Inc
 
Important Notes 
  • In additional to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 3.25% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2022.
  • 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.
  • This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
 
Why WSDOT 
  • 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. 
  • 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 11 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
 
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 Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • 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.
 
 
Contact us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, S. Fields, at fieldss@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 22DOT-SCR-50406 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
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
02
Do you possess a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Sciences with a concentration in Physics, Engineering, Meteorology, Physical Geography, Hydrology, or closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No
03
How many years of experience (winter seasons) do you have performing avalanche control, forecasting as a professional ski patroller, highway avalanche forecaster, or employed by an avalanche center?
  • I have more than 5 seasons of this experience
  • I have at least 5 seasons of this experience
  • I have at least 4 seasons of this experience
  • I have at least 3 seasons of this experience
  • I have at least 2 seasons of this experience
  • I have less than 2 seasons of this experience
  • I do not have this experience
04
Do you possess Pro level avalanche education per American Avalanche Association guidelines for professional avalanche workers (Pro 1, Pro 2, National Avalanche School, Level III)?
  • Yes
  • No
05
If yes, then list highest level of avalanche training (otherwise type N/A):
06
Please select the certifications you currently possess:
  • Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
  • Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC)
  • Emergency Medical Technician Training (EMT)
  • None of the above
07
Please describe your knowledge and experience with weather station software, sensors, and systems (otherwise type N/A):
08
Please describe any prior experience using explosives for avalanche control (otherwise type N/A):
09
Are you willing and able to travel mountainous terrain in deep snow and employ ski-cutting techniques to test snow stability and release avalanches, and work and extreme heights and weather conditions?
  • Yes
  • No
10
Are you willing and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays; performing standby when necessary?
  • Yes
  • No
11
Do you have a Class B CDL with N (cargo/tanker) endorsement without airbrake restrictions, and a current medical card?
  • Yes
  • No
12
If you answered "No" to the above question, are you able to obtain one within 6 months of hire?
  • Yes
  • No
13
Do you have a Washington State Explosives Users License?
  • Yes
  • No
14
If you answered "No" to the above question, do you have the ability to obtain Washington State Explosives Users License within 6 months of your appointment?
  • 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

Agency
State of Washington
Address
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View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
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