Washington State ESD
Overview
About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. WSDOT maintains over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, manages the world\'s longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation. The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a skilled Transportation Engineer to serve as an Engineering Geologist within the State Geotechnical Office\'s Engineering Geology section. This position is a first responder and technical expert that assesses and mitigates unstable slopes and geologic hazards that impact Washington\'s transportation infrastructure. The person will provide expert technical guidance and support to region project offices, Materials Engineers, Maintenance, and other WSDOT partners on emergency and complex geotechnical design and construction projects across the state. The successful candidate will demonstrate analytical and problem-solving abilities, proficiency in geological and geotechnical investigation methods, and experience conducting field assessments and developing geotechnical design recommendations. A strong candidate will bring engineering judgment, the ability to manage multiple projects independently, and solid geotechnical expertise. What to Expect
This position requires outdoor field work using various scientific equipment. Field work may occur in inclement weather, near roadways, and at day or night. Responsibilities include sample review in the HQ Material Laboratory (Tumwater, WA), in-person meetings at the HQ Materials Laboratory, and computer office work at home or in the HQ Materials Laboratory. Exposure hazards include steep or uneven terrain, geohazards (rockfall, landslides, debris flows, floods, etc.), rugged outdoor conditions, adverse weather, high-speed traffic, exhaust, drill rigs, and construction equipment. Among the responsibilities, the Engineering Geologist will: Develop field exploration plans, instrumentation plans, and specialized laboratory testing plans for geotechnical design and construction projects. Lead and/or direct drill inspectors, laboratory technicians, and instrumentation technicians to ensure accurate data collection. Perform emergency responses for slope-related highway closures, conduct risk assessments, and provide short-term recommendations to Maintenance and emergency personnel. Perform field data collection for unstable slope stabilization projects and earthwork projects. Compile, organize, research, and review historical records, geologic mapping, field data, and laboratory data. Perform various geotechnical analyses (limit-equilibrium, kinematic slope stability, settlement, liquefaction, etc.) for earthwork and slope stabilization projects. Write memoranda and geotechnical reports summarizing work, data, analyses, interpretation, and final recommendations. Prepare PS&E level geotechnical engineering design documents. Provide geotechnical construction support as a subject matter expert, including developing solutions to construction problems. Track geotechnical design project costs and schedule. Qualifications
This is a Transportation Engineer 4 position. The hiring manager may fill at a lower level in the classification series based on qualifications, with an in-training plan provided as needed. To be considered, the following are
required : Core Geologic and Geotechnical Knowledge:
Demonstrated understanding of geologic, engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geotechnical principles, including subsurface interpretation for design and construction. Regulatory and Licensing Awareness:
Knowledge of state and professional standards with ability to meet licensure as a Licensed Engineering Geologist in Washington State. Technical Proficiency and Field Expertise:
Skilled in field investigations, site characterizations, and stability assessments using geotechnical tools and equipment. Project Management and Collaboration:
Ability to coordinate scopes, schedules, deliverables, and budgets with consultants, regional offices, and internal customers. Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:
Ability to perform geotechnical analyses and develop design recommendations based on data and judgment. Communication and Reporting:
Strong written and verbal communication to produce clear geotechnical reports. Respectful Workplace:
Commitment to learning and growing, with ability to meet the needs of others. In addition to the above, the following are
required : A valid driver\'s license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles. Ability to travel overnight and work outside in adverse conditions. Ability to attend in-person meetings at the State Materials Laboratory (Tumwater, WA) and perform computer-based office work at home or in the laboratory. Ability to perform multiple concurrent tasks. Ability to obtain high-angle rope access training/certification within 12 months and to use it during the in-training period. Ability to obtain FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot License within 12 months and to use it during the in-training period. Note: Some sections use bold emphasis to highlight key requirements. Preferred qualifications include: Field Geology Methods:
Experience with advanced field geology techniques. Geotechnical Software Proficiency:
Experience with GIS, limit equilibrium software, and geotechnical modeling tools. Steep Slope and Rope Access:
Experience with rope access methods and safety on steep slopes. FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot Certificate. *To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting. Important Notes
This recruitment may be used to fill additional positions per business needs. Base salary plus other compensation as applicable; union-represented positions have details in applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Non-represented positions are described in State regulations. Flexible/hybrid remote work options exist, with in-person lab responsibilities described above. This is a Transportation Engineer 4 position with potential to be filled at a lower level in the classification series (Geotechnical Specialist) based on qualifications. Salary ranges at each level are listed in the posting. WSDOT does not use E-Verify and does not offer STEM OPT for this position. Why WSDOT
Work-Life Balance – Flexible schedules and telework options for eligible roles. Paid Leave – Up to 25 vacation days plus 12 holidays for full-time employees. Tuition Assistance – Tuition reimbursement, college discounts, and potential loan forgiveness. PlanFor Your Future – Comprehensive benefits, state retirement options, and more. Details available in State Benefits. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How to Apply
Applications are accepted electronically. Include detailed work experience in the application. Please attach a resume and a cover letter explaining qualifications and interest. Provide contact details for a minimum of three references who can attest to work performance and competencies. Please click the APPLY button to proceed. You will be prompted to sign in or create an account to submit your application. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value a respectful, inclusive workplace. All persons are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance or an alternative format may contact the Recruiter. Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, contact the assigned Recruiter. Reference 25DOT-HQ-04786 in the subject line.
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About WSDOT The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. WSDOT maintains over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, manages the world\'s longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation. The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a skilled Transportation Engineer to serve as an Engineering Geologist within the State Geotechnical Office\'s Engineering Geology section. This position is a first responder and technical expert that assesses and mitigates unstable slopes and geologic hazards that impact Washington\'s transportation infrastructure. The person will provide expert technical guidance and support to region project offices, Materials Engineers, Maintenance, and other WSDOT partners on emergency and complex geotechnical design and construction projects across the state. The successful candidate will demonstrate analytical and problem-solving abilities, proficiency in geological and geotechnical investigation methods, and experience conducting field assessments and developing geotechnical design recommendations. A strong candidate will bring engineering judgment, the ability to manage multiple projects independently, and solid geotechnical expertise. What to Expect
This position requires outdoor field work using various scientific equipment. Field work may occur in inclement weather, near roadways, and at day or night. Responsibilities include sample review in the HQ Material Laboratory (Tumwater, WA), in-person meetings at the HQ Materials Laboratory, and computer office work at home or in the HQ Materials Laboratory. Exposure hazards include steep or uneven terrain, geohazards (rockfall, landslides, debris flows, floods, etc.), rugged outdoor conditions, adverse weather, high-speed traffic, exhaust, drill rigs, and construction equipment. Among the responsibilities, the Engineering Geologist will: Develop field exploration plans, instrumentation plans, and specialized laboratory testing plans for geotechnical design and construction projects. Lead and/or direct drill inspectors, laboratory technicians, and instrumentation technicians to ensure accurate data collection. Perform emergency responses for slope-related highway closures, conduct risk assessments, and provide short-term recommendations to Maintenance and emergency personnel. Perform field data collection for unstable slope stabilization projects and earthwork projects. Compile, organize, research, and review historical records, geologic mapping, field data, and laboratory data. Perform various geotechnical analyses (limit-equilibrium, kinematic slope stability, settlement, liquefaction, etc.) for earthwork and slope stabilization projects. Write memoranda and geotechnical reports summarizing work, data, analyses, interpretation, and final recommendations. Prepare PS&E level geotechnical engineering design documents. Provide geotechnical construction support as a subject matter expert, including developing solutions to construction problems. Track geotechnical design project costs and schedule. Qualifications
This is a Transportation Engineer 4 position. The hiring manager may fill at a lower level in the classification series based on qualifications, with an in-training plan provided as needed. To be considered, the following are
required : Core Geologic and Geotechnical Knowledge:
Demonstrated understanding of geologic, engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geotechnical principles, including subsurface interpretation for design and construction. Regulatory and Licensing Awareness:
Knowledge of state and professional standards with ability to meet licensure as a Licensed Engineering Geologist in Washington State. Technical Proficiency and Field Expertise:
Skilled in field investigations, site characterizations, and stability assessments using geotechnical tools and equipment. Project Management and Collaboration:
Ability to coordinate scopes, schedules, deliverables, and budgets with consultants, regional offices, and internal customers. Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:
Ability to perform geotechnical analyses and develop design recommendations based on data and judgment. Communication and Reporting:
Strong written and verbal communication to produce clear geotechnical reports. Respectful Workplace:
Commitment to learning and growing, with ability to meet the needs of others. In addition to the above, the following are
required : A valid driver\'s license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles. Ability to travel overnight and work outside in adverse conditions. Ability to attend in-person meetings at the State Materials Laboratory (Tumwater, WA) and perform computer-based office work at home or in the laboratory. Ability to perform multiple concurrent tasks. Ability to obtain high-angle rope access training/certification within 12 months and to use it during the in-training period. Ability to obtain FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot License within 12 months and to use it during the in-training period. Note: Some sections use bold emphasis to highlight key requirements. Preferred qualifications include: Field Geology Methods:
Experience with advanced field geology techniques. Geotechnical Software Proficiency:
Experience with GIS, limit equilibrium software, and geotechnical modeling tools. Steep Slope and Rope Access:
Experience with rope access methods and safety on steep slopes. FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot Certificate. *To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting. Important Notes
This recruitment may be used to fill additional positions per business needs. Base salary plus other compensation as applicable; union-represented positions have details in applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Non-represented positions are described in State regulations. Flexible/hybrid remote work options exist, with in-person lab responsibilities described above. This is a Transportation Engineer 4 position with potential to be filled at a lower level in the classification series (Geotechnical Specialist) based on qualifications. Salary ranges at each level are listed in the posting. WSDOT does not use E-Verify and does not offer STEM OPT for this position. Why WSDOT
Work-Life Balance – Flexible schedules and telework options for eligible roles. Paid Leave – Up to 25 vacation days plus 12 holidays for full-time employees. Tuition Assistance – Tuition reimbursement, college discounts, and potential loan forgiveness. PlanFor Your Future – Comprehensive benefits, state retirement options, and more. Details available in State Benefits. Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT? How to Apply
Applications are accepted electronically. Include detailed work experience in the application. Please attach a resume and a cover letter explaining qualifications and interest. Provide contact details for a minimum of three references who can attest to work performance and competencies. Please click the APPLY button to proceed. You will be prompted to sign in or create an account to submit your application. WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value a respectful, inclusive workplace. All persons are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance or an alternative format may contact the Recruiter. Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, contact the assigned Recruiter. Reference 25DOT-HQ-04786 in the subject line.
#J-18808-Ljbffr