Transportation Engineer 2 (Multiple Positions)

State of Washington$64K — $96K *
Lacey, WA 98503In-Person
Transportation
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Valid driver's license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of engineering principles and methods related to transportation projects.
  • Skill in gathering and analyzing data to support engineering decisions.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills for diverse audiences.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to learn engineering design software.
  • Experience applying standards and procedures related to transportation engineering.

Responsibilities

  • Perform quality assurance inspections for construction projects.
  • Inspect and ensure highways conform to plans and specifications.
  • Process contractor submittals and materials documentation.
  • Conduct inspections on specialized construction phases, including bridges and drainage systems.
  • Gather and transport materials for field testing.
  • Review design-builder schedules and maintain quality control.
  • Participate in the development of safety plans for construction projects.

Benefits

  • Flexible work schedules to maintain work-life balance.
  • Up to 25 paid vacation days per year in addition to 12 paid holidays.
  • Tuition assistance for educational expenses and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
  • Comprehensive healthcare options and retirement program choices.
Full Job Description
Salary : $64,776.00 - $96,144.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-OR-30187m
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 06/23/2026
Closing Date: 7/6/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
The Opportunity
WSDOT is seeking multiple motivated and skilled Transportation Engineers to join the Lacey Project Engineer Office (PEO). In this dynamic role, you will play a key part in delivering transportation improvement projects that enhance the safety, mobility, and reliability of Washington's highway system. Working in the Field and/or Office Environments, you will help ensure construction projects are built in accordance with contract plans, specifications, engineering standards, and agency requirements, directly contributing to the success of critical infrastructure investments across the region.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:
  • Performs Quality Assurance inspection for Bid Build construction projects and Quality Verification for Design Build Projects.
  • Inspect and direct the inspection of highways and highway structures: ensure conformance to plans and specifications: validate complete and accurate field records: review quality and quantity, and prepare cost estimates, pay notes, and diaries, etc.
  • Process contractor submittals and materials documentation.
  • Perform inspection on specialized or more complex phases such as bridges, illumination, signing, electrical, enclosed drainage systems and the identification and accommodation of existing utilities with respect to current construction.
  • Perform construction Quality Verification inspections on active highway construction projects.
  • Review Design-Builder's schedule. WSDOT materials testing frequencies DBE requirements and Design-Builders file system.
  • Gather samples of materials in the field; manipulate and/or transport materials and equipment to and from the field; perform material testing. Operate a state vehicle to travel to construction sites and in support of essential functions.
  • Actively participate in the development and implementation of Pre Activity Safety Plans (PASP) in adherence with safety guidelines and ensure PASPs are accurate and followed.
  • Perform field surveying to support highway design and construction, following standardized WSDOT methods and departmental rules established for highway surveying operations.

Qualifications

This is a Transportation Engineer 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the 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.
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
  • Engineering Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge and practical understanding of engineering principles, methods, and practices relevant to transportation projects. This includes experience in design development, construction techniques, material testing procedures, and/or contract administration.
  • Data Collection and Analysis: Skill in gathering, analyzing, and documenting data accurately to support engineering decisions.
  • Communication Skills: Skills in communicating information effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing, to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person. Including listening, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back on constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Software Proficiency: Proficiency with computers and software applications, including Microsoft Office. Skills to learn and operate engineering design software (i.e., AutoCAD, MicroStation, Civil 3D, or equivalent).
  • Standards and Procedures: Experience learning and applying standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation engineering projects.
  • Vehicle Operation for Fieldwork: Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to operate stateowned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
  • Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.


The following qualifications are also required:
  • A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
  • Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.


It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
  • Survey Tools and Data Collection: Demonstrated ability to utilize survey tools, equipment, and data collection methods to support engineering, construction, transportation, or infrastructure-related projects. Ability to interpret survey data and apply information to project planning, design, or construction activities.
  • Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CADD): Demonstrated proficiency using Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) software to develop, review, modify, or interpret engineering plans, drawings, specifications, and project-related documents.
  • Construction Project Tracking and Contract Administration Systems: Demonstrated knowledge of project tracking, contract administration, reporting, and cost estimating systems used to support transportation or construction projects. Ability to utilize software applications such as Construction Contracts Information System (CCIS), Contract Administration and Payment System (CAPS), Data Management and Control System (DMCS), or similar systems to monitor project progress, prepare estimates, maintain records, and support project delivery.
  • Engineering Certification and Professional Development: Possession of an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or Professional Engineer (PE) license or demonstrated progress toward obtaining professional engineering credentials. Ability to apply engineering principles, standards, and professional judgment to transportation, construction, or infrastructure-related projects.

Important Notes
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
  • 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • This is a Transportation Engineer 2 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the 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. The base salaries for each level are:
    1. Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 - $96,144
    2. Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 - $87,048

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.
  • 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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference Transportation Engineer 2 #30187 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 p

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