Traffic Design and Traffic Operations Engineers – TE2



Traffic Design and Traffic Operations Engineers – TE2

Salary

$63,216.00 - $85,020.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County – Spokane, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

22DOT-ER-60437m

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Eastern Region

Opening Date

09/26/2022

Closing Date

10/10/2022 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 two enthusiastic engineers who have a passion for creative and innovative solutions for the state-highway transportation system. We are looking for mid-level engineers who want to dive into all elements of traffic design and traffic operations. We are seeking to fill two positions, a Traffic Design Engineer position, and a Traffic Operations Engineer position. The Traffic Design Engineer will primarily assist in the development and management of PS&E’s, in preparation for Signing, Illumination, Traffic Signal, and/or Intelligent Transportation System contracts. The Traffic Operations Engineer will primarily work to improve reliability and safety performance of the region’s highways by conducting reviews of signing, striping, travel speeds, crosswalks, and work zones, as well as reviewing crash history. Utilizing your traffic design and operations knowledge, you will respond to both internal and external safety related concerns. Both positions contribute to enhancing safety and mobility on the state highway network.

What to Expect
We are seeking to fill two positions. Listed below are the duties for both positions. Percentage of time spent on each responsibility will vary depending on the specific position.
 
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, you will:

  • Assist in the development and management of PS&E’s, serving as needed in the preparation of signing, Illumination, Traffic Signal, and/or Intelligent Transportation Systems contracts or components of contracts.
  • Assist in the development and management of task orders for the delivery of work requested by other offices, local agencies, developers, and consultants.
  • Apply traffic-related standard specifications, Regional Special Provisions, Standard Plans and other manuals/procedures and makes recommendations for improvement. 
  • Assist in maintaining Traffic Office special provisions. 
  • Conduct systematic field assessments of region highways, concentrating on safety, mobility, congestion relief, and traffic control device routine maintenance. 
  • Review collision history and consult with Maintenance and local agencies as appropriate.
  • Schedule and perform operational reviews of signs, pavement markings, crosswalks, alignment (ball banking), speed zones, bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
  • Develop Minor Operational Enhancement projects that provide immediate improvement to the operational safety and efficiency of the highway system.
  • Respond to WSDOT and public requests, occasionally serving as a liaison between the Traffic Office and the Region Communications Officer. Typical requests involve work zones, signing, and general operation. 
  • Conduct investigations which may include site reviews, collision investigation, supporting documentation, and correspondence.
  • Review information, such as traffic control, for approvals of Special Event Permits.
  • Respond to project offices, Maintenance, developers, and utility representatives regarding traffic related elements. Assist in conducting field reviews of construction and maintenance work zones for functionality and uniformity.
  • Assist with data collection and analysis related to real-time roadway operations, and use of the information to develop and/or update traffic signal phase and timing plan TSMO plan, Traffic Impact Analysis, and performance measurements.
 
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Experience in being able to effectively work both individually and within a diverse team environment.
  • Experience adhering to safety policies and diligence in performing work in a safe manner.
  • Experience in working independently and prioritize workload and handle multiple assignments.
 
In addition to the above, candidates are also required to have 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
  • A Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Soil Mechanics, Traffic, or Transportation.
 
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: 
  • Knowledge of Traffic Engineering and Operations theories, principles, and practices.
  • Knowledge of MUTCD and ability to apply it to various situations.
  • Knowledge of RCW and WAC’s.
  • Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
  • Knowledge of department purchasing and contracting practices.
  • Knowledge of PS&E development.
  • Knowledge and understanding of WSDOT Directives, Agency Emphasis, and Expectations.
  • Skilled in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • Skills to communicate with and assist hostile irate, and/or ill-mannered customers.
 
Important Notes 
  • This recruitment is being used to fill two Transportation Engineer 2 positions. 
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance – Our 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 eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options, as well as 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-ER-60437m 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
Select all that apply regarding your education and/or licensure:
  • A Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Soil Mechanics, Traffic, or Transportation.
  • Certification as an Engineer-In-Training or passing Fundamentals of Engineering.
  • I have equivalent combination of education and licensure.
  • I do not possess any of the above.
02
If you indicated equivalent combination of education and licensure, please explain. This should be reflected in your application.
03
How many years of experience do you have as a Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Technician 3, Bridge Engineer 1, or equivalent as an entry-level engineer in civil engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, traffic, transportation, or closely related field?
  • More than 10 years
  • 7-10 years
  • 5-7 years
  • 3-5 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 1-2 years
  • Less than 1 year
04
Briefly describe your experience in the question above. This experience should be reflected in your application. if no experience, indicate N/A.
05
How many years of traffic engineering experience do you have, including any experience with Freeway Operations, Signal Operations, Traffic Operations, Traffic Design, Traffic Analysis, or Safety Analysis?
  • 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 have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Please list your license number and any restrictions.
08
Of the two positions offered in this recruitment, please select the role(s) that best meets your interest:
  • Traffic Operations Engineer
  • Traffic Design Engineer
  • Either position
09
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
10
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
11
If you have a visa, how much time remains on your current visa?
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • Handshake
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • COMTO
  • APWA
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
13
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