Senior Planner – Team Lead | TPS4



Senior Planner – Team Lead | TPS4

Salary

$71,520.00 - $96,156.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County – Lacey, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

22DOT-OR-30873

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

08/16/2022

Closing Date

9/6/2022 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 seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to fill the critical role of Senior Planner – Team Lead. The individual in this role will contribute to the regional planning, and project delivery efforts. This position leads and supervises staff in various fish passage projects, building strong partnerships, coordinating with regional planning organizations, local jurisdictions, tribal nations, and agencies, while maintaining good working relationships with internal and external customers. Our top candidate possesses planning expertise, management skills, and the understanding of practical solutions.
 
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Senior Planner – Team Lead will:

  • Oversee staff and/or consultants in the development and management of scope, schedule, and budget of assigned fish passage projects and other pre-design activities.
  • Manage staff and consultants in the development of the Preliminary Hydraulic Design (PHD), Context and Modal Accommodation Report (CMAR), and Basis of Design (BOD), and all other work to complete pre-design efforts.
  • Attend and represent Olympic Region at public project forums and workshops.
  • Coordinate field reviews of fish passage sites with stakeholders.
  • Prepare, review, and edit project documents and web content.
  • Prepare executive updates regarding study progress and make recommendations as needed.
  • Respond to public inquires. 
  • Provide ongoing staff supervision by reviewing work products, assigning work, and adjusting work assignments and schedules. 
  • Supervise, mentor, coach, and develop staff, including preparing periodic performance appraisals. 

 

Qualifications

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

  • A Bachelor's Degree involving major study in transportation, urban, regional or land use planning, engineering, natural or physical sciences or a closely related study -AND- four (4) years professional transportation experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems (A Master’s degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one year of required experience). -OR-
  • One (1) year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 3, Transportation Engineer 3 or equivalent classification in city or county agencies such as a Senior Planner. 

In addition to one of the above, the following are also required

  • Knowledge of transportation planning principles and current related federal, state, and WSDOT policies, standards, and guidelines.
  • Experience conducting analysis and/or producing reports and presentations that further the linking of planning, scoping, and design.
  • Experience using a personal computer to develop calculations, documents, spreadsheets, estimates and project scheduling. This requires the understanding of the functions of programs involved.
  • Experience effectively communicating with others both written and orally.

 

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Knowledge of the WSDOT pre-design process including development of the CMAR, BOD, and project summary material.
  • Experience conducting public meetings, presenting complex information to a diverse audience, collecting, and recording information, and preparing written documents.
  • Experience with staff supervision, mentoring, coaching, or development.
  • Experience with project management including budget tracking, scheduling, deliverable review, and contract compliance.
  • Experience working with Metropolitan Planning Organizations, Regional Transportation Planning Organizations, local agencies, and tribal governments.
  • Knowledge of the Growth Management Act.
  • The ability to safely and legally operate a state vehicle.

 

Important Notes 

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.   
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • The recruiting efforts for this position was 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 September 7, 2022. 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.
  • 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. This 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 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. NOTE: This information may 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, Robyn Lovely at LovelyR@wsdot.wa.govPlease be sure to reference 22DOT-OR-30873 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
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.
  • None of the above
02
If you indicated completion of an Bachelor's degree or higher, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, type N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of professional transportation experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems.
  • 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 at least four (4) years of this experience.
  • I have at least three (3) years of this experience.
  • I have less than three (3) years of this experience.
04
Please select the response that best describes your total years as a Transportation Planning Specialist 3, Transportation Engineer 3 or equivalent classification in city or county agencies such as a Senior Planner.
  • 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 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
05
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience with staff supervision, mentoring, coaching, or development.
  • 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 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
06
Please briefly describe your experience with staff supervision, mentoring, coaching, or development. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
07
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience with project management including budget tracking, scheduling, deliverable review, and contract compliance.
  • 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 1 – 2 years of this experience.
  • I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
08
Please briefly describe your experience using a personal computer to develop calculations, documents, spreadsheets, estimates and project scheduling. If you do not have this experience, please type N/A.
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
10
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
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
  • Planning Association of Washington
  • Women's Transportation Seminar
  • 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

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

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