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 seeking a self-motivated individual to serve as a Materials Tester (TT3) in our project office in Spokane, WA. In this role, you will perform skilled work in support of the Eastern Region Quality Assurance program by testing and sampling construction materials used on WSDOT projects. This position is vital to ensuring that testing, sampling, and documentation of construction materials is accomplished efficiently and accurately while aligning with applicable rules and policies. In this role, you will operate a coring machine, verify lab testing equipment, operate surveying equipment, utilize CAD software, and conduct drilling investigations and data collection for various reports. This position will serve as the design member for the design and PS&E of the Eastern Region Chip Seal Projects. Our top candidate has a background in construction or is an engineering technician who has exceptional aptitude for attention to detail.
 
What to Expect
This position is required to perform hands-on work outdoors, in inclement weather on construction sites in daytime or nighttime. Exposure to hazards may include exhaust, high-speed traffic, steep or uneven terrain, and/or heavy construction equipment.
 
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Materials Tester will:

• Perform testing for a full range of materials in accordance policies and procedures. 
• Transport fragile testing equipment; perform verifications of equipment prior to start of construction.
• Operate coring machine to obtain asphalt or concrete cores. 
• Operate safely within active roadways coordinating with the project office or maintenance for traffic control. 
• Perform periodic checks, services, and calibrations on all lab testing equipment and field-testing trailers. 
• Document and report needed repairs or equipment malfunctions.
• Use design and engineering software to perform design tasks, drawing and revising contract plans. 
• Assist in scoping tasks.

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent.

• Associates degree in civil engineering, surveying, drafting or other closely related fields from an accredited university; OR
• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent AND two (2) years of experience performing basic technical engineering work as a Transportation Technician 1 or equivalent; OR   
• Three (3) years of experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker.

• Two (2) years of material testing in construction materials such as concrete, aggregate, HMA and embankment density AND one (1) year experience in reviewing and interpret technical documents, such as plans, specifications, and estimates; OR
• Bachelor’s Degree with major study in civil engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, traffic, transportation, or a closely related field; OR 
• Two (2) years of experience as a TT2 or equivalent; OR 
• Certification as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT); OR
• A Land Surveyor's license.

• Experience using standard software to prepare records, drawings and/or documents. 
• Experience adhering to safety policies and diligence in performing work in a safe manner. 
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal and experience communicating to multiple audiences. 
• Qualified/certified in WSDOT, WAQTC, AASHTO, and ASTM test methods, or the ability to become qualified within six (6) months of hire. (Agency assists with training) 
• The ability to routinely manipulate and transport up to 100 pounds of various materials/equipment.
• The ability to traverse steep, uneven terrain in all weather conditions.  
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and perform stand-by as needed.
• A valid drivers’ license.
• High school graduation or equivalent.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, or Construction Management, or Civil Engineering Technology.
• Independent Assurance experience.
• Successful completion of the WSDOT Certified Inspector Program.
• Experience with generating PS&E documentation.

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Transportation Technician 3 level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to also be considered as a Transportation Technician 1 or Transportation Technician 2,if not qualified at the highest  level. The annual salaries for each level are included below. 
  • Transportation Technician 1: $40,812 – $54,492
  • Transportation Technician 2: $50,592 – $68,076
  • Transportation Technician 3: $57,324 – $77,028

• 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 

• 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 11 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 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.