Assistant Office Engineer (TE2, In-Training)

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. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a motivated Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) to serve as the Assistant Office Engineer in Tacoma, WA. In this role, you will help deliver critical highway construction projects that improve the safety, reliability, quality, and capacity of Washingtons transportation system. This position plays an important role in ensuring transportation projects are constructed in compliance with standard specifications, contract requirements, and approved project plans while supporting WSDOTs commitment to quality, stewardship, and public service.

As the Assistant Office Engineer, you will support construction project delivery through inspection of highway contract work, reviewing and processing of contractor submittals, maintenance of accurate project documentation and accounting records, and verification of timely and accurate payments for completed work. Working closely with project teams, contractors, and agency partners, you will help ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with WSDOT policies, procedures, and strategic goals that support the long-term resilience of Washingtons transportation infrastructure.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Office Engineer will:

• Prepare and generate progress estimates; review and verify payment documentation for completeness and accuracy; compile wage and equipment rates for force account work; and monitor and adjust all payments for materials on hand, review contractors payrolls, Diverse Business Program goals, apprentice utilization and training programs.
• Review and process material documentation, maintain the Record of Materials (ROM), coordinate with WSDOT staff and the Contractor, maintain the Statistical Analysis of Materials (SAM) program, instruct personnel to sample materials, determine the acceptability of the materials during progress estimate preparation.
• Prepare plans, specifications and estimates for change orders, review construction schedule for impacts, verify approvals, prepare justification records and the change order checklist and track change orders in Construction Contracts Information System.
• Process, track and coordinate design build documentation, track, review, coordinate with subject matter experts and process design build documentation.
• Prepare professional letters, reports, and other required documentation for the public and other external customers.
• Apply sound engineering judgement to interpret data, identify problems, and develop solutions.
• Track, document, and report daily work activities.

Qualifications

These are Transportation Engineer 2 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions 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 are required :

Transportation Engineer 1 (TE1) level:

• Engineering Fundamentals: Foundational knowledge of civil and transportation engineering principles, methods, and mathematical concepts used to solve routine engineering problems. Ability to apply this knowledge to support design, construction, inspection, and analysis activities, typically gained through education, training, or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.

Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) Level:

• Engineering Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge and practical understanding of engineering principles, methods, and practices applicable to transportation projects. Ability to independently apply this knowledge to engineering assignments, including design development, construction techniques, material testing procedures, and/or contract administration. In addition to the above, the following are required at either level
• Analytical and Technical Review: Ability to examine engineering data and project elements, develop and propose alternate solutions to complex problems, and review engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
• Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in operating Windows-based computers and software, including MS Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint), as well as databases.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate technical information effectively and professionally to diverse audiences, including individuals with non-technical backgrounds, using virtual platforms, telephone, email, and in person communication.
• Collaboration & Work Management: Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and produce accurate and consistent results.
• Respectful Workplace: Demonstrated commitment to professional growth, respectful communication, and contributing to an inclusive and collaborative work environment.
• Drivers License: Possession of a valid, unrestricted drivers license to operate vehicles in Washington State.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Project Tracking & Contract Administration Systems : Demonstrated experience utilizing project tracking and contract administration systems (e.g., CCIS, CAPS, Unifier, DMCS) to update records, generate reports, and support contract estimate preparation while ensuring data accuracy and compliance with established procedures.
• Change Order Management: Proven ability to manage change orders for construction projects, including reviewing, processing, and tracking modifications to contracts while ensuring alignment with project scope, timelines, and contractual requirements.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. The frequency of teleworking for this position will be determined based on overall business needs.
• 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.
• These are in-training positions that offer a career path, hands-on learning, and mentorship. These positions allow you to progress upward through the Transportation Engineer and achieve the goal class of a Transportation Engineer 2. Candidates will be considered for a Transportation Engineer 1 or a Transportation Engineer 2, depending on their qualifications. Annual salary levels for each position are:
  • Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 - $96,144
  • Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 - $87,048
• 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 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 a 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 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; 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 recruiter listed.

  Contact Us

  For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at ... . Please be sure to reference Assistant Office Engineer #30202 in the subject line.