State of Washington
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a skilled and motivated Bridge Engineer 4 (In‑Training) to join our Bridge Design Office in Tumwater, WA. This in‑training opportunity provides a clear career pathway with hands‑on learning, mentorship, and professional development, guiding you toward advancement to the goal class of Bridge Engineer 4. As part of this highly respected team, you’ll apply and expand your expertise in bridge and structural engineering, taking on increasing responsibility for design leadership on some of Washington’s high‑profile transportation projects. This role represents both a culmination of advanced technical growth and an exciting opportunity to shape the state’s infrastructure through innovation and collaboration.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Bridge Engineer 4 will:
Analyze, design and check structural plans and details for structures in accordance with AASHTO codes and specifications, the WSDOT Bridge Design Manual, and other codes and references.
Prepare structural calculations and structural quantities.
Coordinate detailing of plan sheets.
Review and comment on structural plans and specifications for projects.
Provide guidance and expertise to Region and HQ Offices on structural related issues during construction projects.
Review shop plans, requests for information, working drawings and requests for change.
Once the BE4 level is reached, seal plans, details, and calculations for highway structures in accordance with the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, at a minimum (BE1) the following are required:
Applied Engineering Fundamentals:
Demonstrates foundational understanding of civil and structural engineering principles and bridge design concepts to support the development of plans, calculations, and reports.
Technical Accuracy and Attention to Detail:
Ability to perform basic structural calculations and prepare design documentation with precision and consistency under guidance.
Effective Communication:
Skills to communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, supervisors, and stakeholders in both written and verbal formats to support collaborative project delivery.
Technical Tools and Software Proficiency:
Experience using Microsoft Office applications and entry‑level CAD or structural analysis software to support engineering tasks.
Commitment to Learning and Continuous Improvement:
Actively seeks to understand and apply agency standards, codes, and procedures while expanding technical knowledge and professional skills.
Respectful Workplace:
Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering. Degrees in other disciplines may be considered when coursework is applicable to structural design and analysis.
It is preferred that candidates also have:
Advanced Technical Expertise:
Ability to apply advanced civil and structural engineering principles, including finite element modeling, foundation, and seismic analysis, to independently deliver complex and, code‑compliant bridge designs.
Project Delivery:
Demonstrated experience in Design‑Bid‑Build and Design‑Build project delivery methods.
Construction Insight:
Ability to leverage field or inspection experience to produce safe, practical, and constructible designs; supports construction with technical guidance and problem‑solving.
Technical Proficiency:
Efficiently produces professional reports, plans, and presentations using Microsoft Office.
Leadership and Mentorship:
Guides and mentors engineers and project teams, ensuring quality, technical excellence, and effective coordination.
Collaboration and Communication:
Skills to clearly convey complex technical information and work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement:
Skills stay current with evolving bridge design standards and industry best practices to enhance project outcomes.
Professional Licensure:
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Civil Engineering, State of Washington. Successful completion of the NCEES Civil Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (E.I.T. status).
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options, with supervisor’s approval.
This is a Bridge Engineer 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in‑training” plan.
Bridge Engineer 4: $91,464 - $123,084 Annually
Bridge Engineer 3: $78,912 – $106,104 Annually
Bridge Engineer 2: $71,472 – $96,144 Annually
Bridge Engineer 1: $64,776 – $87,048 Annually
To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
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, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). 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 may 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.
PlanFor Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
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 of 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; and 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 for this opportunity.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Bridge Engineer 4 #05069 in the subject line.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking a skilled and motivated Bridge Engineer 4 (In‑Training) to join our Bridge Design Office in Tumwater, WA. This in‑training opportunity provides a clear career pathway with hands‑on learning, mentorship, and professional development, guiding you toward advancement to the goal class of Bridge Engineer 4. As part of this highly respected team, you’ll apply and expand your expertise in bridge and structural engineering, taking on increasing responsibility for design leadership on some of Washington’s high‑profile transportation projects. This role represents both a culmination of advanced technical growth and an exciting opportunity to shape the state’s infrastructure through innovation and collaboration.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Bridge Engineer 4 will:
Analyze, design and check structural plans and details for structures in accordance with AASHTO codes and specifications, the WSDOT Bridge Design Manual, and other codes and references.
Prepare structural calculations and structural quantities.
Coordinate detailing of plan sheets.
Review and comment on structural plans and specifications for projects.
Provide guidance and expertise to Region and HQ Offices on structural related issues during construction projects.
Review shop plans, requests for information, working drawings and requests for change.
Once the BE4 level is reached, seal plans, details, and calculations for highway structures in accordance with the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, at a minimum (BE1) the following are required:
Applied Engineering Fundamentals:
Demonstrates foundational understanding of civil and structural engineering principles and bridge design concepts to support the development of plans, calculations, and reports.
Technical Accuracy and Attention to Detail:
Ability to perform basic structural calculations and prepare design documentation with precision and consistency under guidance.
Effective Communication:
Skills to communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, supervisors, and stakeholders in both written and verbal formats to support collaborative project delivery.
Technical Tools and Software Proficiency:
Experience using Microsoft Office applications and entry‑level CAD or structural analysis software to support engineering tasks.
Commitment to Learning and Continuous Improvement:
Actively seeks to understand and apply agency standards, codes, and procedures while expanding technical knowledge and professional skills.
Respectful Workplace:
Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering. Degrees in other disciplines may be considered when coursework is applicable to structural design and analysis.
It is preferred that candidates also have:
Advanced Technical Expertise:
Ability to apply advanced civil and structural engineering principles, including finite element modeling, foundation, and seismic analysis, to independently deliver complex and, code‑compliant bridge designs.
Project Delivery:
Demonstrated experience in Design‑Bid‑Build and Design‑Build project delivery methods.
Construction Insight:
Ability to leverage field or inspection experience to produce safe, practical, and constructible designs; supports construction with technical guidance and problem‑solving.
Technical Proficiency:
Efficiently produces professional reports, plans, and presentations using Microsoft Office.
Leadership and Mentorship:
Guides and mentors engineers and project teams, ensuring quality, technical excellence, and effective coordination.
Collaboration and Communication:
Skills to clearly convey complex technical information and work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement:
Skills stay current with evolving bridge design standards and industry best practices to enhance project outcomes.
Professional Licensure:
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Civil Engineering, State of Washington. Successful completion of the NCEES Civil Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (E.I.T. status).
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options, with supervisor’s approval.
This is a Bridge Engineer 4 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in‑training” plan.
Bridge Engineer 4: $91,464 - $123,084 Annually
Bridge Engineer 3: $78,912 – $106,104 Annually
Bridge Engineer 2: $71,472 – $96,144 Annually
Bridge Engineer 1: $64,776 – $87,048 Annually
To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
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, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). 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 may 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.
PlanFor Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
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 of 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; and 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 for this opportunity.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Bridge Engineer 4 #05069 in the subject line.
#J-18808-Ljbffr