Fluvial Geomorphologist - Transportation Engineer 4 In-Training



Fluvial Geomorphologist - Transportation Engineer 4 In-Training

Salary

$59,616.00 - $107,712.00 Annually

Location

King County - Shoreline, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

23DOT- HQ-05202-1

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

08/24/2023

Closing Date

9/13/2023 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 Hydraulics Office is seeking a Fluvial Geomorphologist with experience in stream restoration, including hydraulics and hydrologic analysis, based in either Shoreline or Olympia, WA. This Transportation Engineer 4 (TE4) position will serve as a statewide specialist in fluvial geomorphology and hydraulics and will provide support to regional and project offices in geomorphology, hydrology, and/or hydraulic engineering. As a fluvial geomorphologist, the incumbent will assess reach and watershed conditions, produce hydraulic bases of design reports, floodplain analyses, channel migration analyses, sediment transport studies, and design emergency repair actions.  Assignments involve independent responsibility for projects of considerable scope and complexity. This opportunity has been approved as in-training, meaning you have the opportunity to receive on the job training and experience that will help advance into the next level of the position after training and performance requirements have been met.  

 

What to Expect

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

  • Assess reach and watershed conditions and perform hydrologic and hydraulic computations for the preparation or review of Chronic Environmental Deficiencies Site and Reach Assessments, hydraulic bases of design reports, floodplain analysis, channel migration analysis, and emergency repair actions. 
  • Conduct field data collection that includes using surveying and other type equipment. 
  • Perform mapping and analysis using Geographic Information Systems, and design using hydrologic software such as StreamStats and MGS Flood, and hydraulic software such as SRH-2D. 
  • Design habitat complexity features such as large woody material placements, and engineered log jams. 
  • Provide support to regional and project offices in geomorphology, hydrology, and/or hydraulic engineering.
  • Help identify sites for including the Chronic Environmental Deficiencies program. Conduct field reconnaissance in support of site and reach assessments.
  • Review policy for channel complexity and hydrology design and provide policy updates consistent with current state of knowledge and practice.
  • Provide and deliver training in specialty topics within hydrology and geomorphology.

 

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Engineer 4 (TE4) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level, including Transportation Engineer 1, Transportation Engineer 2 or Transportation Engineer 3 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.

 

To be considered for this opportunity at the TE1 level the following are required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, or other closely related engineering field such as Construction Management prior to employment OR certification as an Engineer-in-training. 

 

To be considered for this opportunity at the TE2 level the following are required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, or other closely related engineering field such as Construction Management prior to employment OR certification as an Engineer-in-training. 
  • Ability to prepare and review technical and professional documents.
  • Ability to write and support the Hydraulics Manual.

 

To be considered for this opportunity at the TE3 level the following are required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, or other closely related engineering field such as Construction Management prior to employment OR certification as an Engineer-in-training. 
  • Ability to coach and mentor on hydraulic and hydrologic topics.
  • Ability to solve complex engineering problems.
  • Ability to understand and interpret hydraulic, hydrologic, and environmental processes, rules, and regulations. 
  • Ability to prepare and review technical and professional documents.
  • Ability to write and support the Hydraulics Manual
  • Ability to organize and conduct training on hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or stormwater topics to other designers statewide.

 

To be considered for this opportunity at the goal class, TE4 level, the following are required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geology, or other closely related engineering field such as Construction Management prior to employment.
  • Registered as a Licensed Professional Civil Engineer in the State of Washington, or Licensed Geologist in the State of Washington or ability to gain either license within the timelines of the In-training plan.
  • Ability to serve as a statewide technical specialist in the fields of complex river analysis and design.
  • Ability to coach and mentor on hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or stormwater topics.
  • Ability to solve complex engineering problems.
  • Ability to understand and interpret hydraulic, hydrologic and environmental processes, rules and regulations. 
  • Ability to prepare and review technical and professional documents.
  • Ability to write and support the Hydraulics Manual.
  • Ability to organize and conduct training on hydraulic, hydrologic, and/or stormwater topics to other designers statewide.

 

Requirements at all levels also include:

  • Valid Driver’s License in Washington State.
  • Ability to understand and interpret hydraulic, hydrologic, and environmental processes, rules, and regulations.
  • Ability to prepare technical and professional documents.
  • Ability to work independently and with others.
  • Ability to use various pieces of field equipment to obtain necessary parameters for analysis.
  • Able to perform ordinary work duties at workstation.
  • Ability to consistently and dependably be at work.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
  • Ability to perform field inspections and traverse and move about project sites for the purpose of field investigations at a wide variety of terrains and under varying environmental conditions.
  • Ability to communicate via email, telephone, video conference and in person.
     

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Ability to use specialty software including but not limited HEC-RAS, and SRH-2D and the ability to calibrate and interpret these models for complex hydrologic and hydraulic issues throughout the state and to store, retrieve, and produce information.
  • Knowledge of bridge scour and various design guidelines for establishing the safety of highway bridges during periods of excessive flooding.
  • Knowledge of coastal geomorphology.

 

Important Notes 

  • This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Transportation Engineer 4 (TE4) level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a TE1, TE2 or TE3 if not qualified at the highest-level. Salaries are listed for each level below: 
    1. TE1: $59,616 – $80,112 Annually
    2. TE2: $65,748 – $88,416 Annually
    3. TE3: $72,552 - $97,596 Annually
    4. TE4: $80,112 - $107,712 Annually
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. 
  • The official duty station can be either Shoreline or Olympia, WA and will be determined based on candidate preference and overall business needs. 
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code. 
  • 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 12 paid holidays, full-time employees can earn up to 25 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. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, 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 23DOT-HQ-05202-1 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 education:
  • Master's degree or higher
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Associate's or Technical (2-year) degree
  • High School Diploma
  • None of the above
02
If you indicated you have a degree in the question above, please list the degree field. If no degree, type N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience in a civil engineering, structural engineering, or geologist role
  • I have six (6) or more years of this experience
  • I have 5 – 6 years of this experience
  • I have 4 – 5 years of the experience
  • I have 3 – 4 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
04
Please briefly describe your engineering experience from the question above. If you do not have this experience, please type 'N/A':
05
Are you Licensed as Professional Civil Engineer or Geologist in the State of Washington?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I am licensed in another state
06
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Do you have the ability to perform field inspections and traverse project sites in the field?
  • Yes
  • No
08
Do you have knowledge of coastal Geomorphology?
  • Yes
  • No
09
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
  • APWA
  • "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
  • Radio advertisement
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
10
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