Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

  • State of Washington
  • Lacey, Washington
  • Full Time

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 currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 2 to support the Olympic Regions Tumwater Design Office in delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions across Washington State. This position plays a key role in the preparation and delivery of highway design projects by developing design documentation, plans, specifications, and cost estimates that support compliant and high-quality project delivery. The incumbent will provide technical guidance and training to supporting design staff while contributing to the successful completion of transportation improvement projects that enhance the safety, quality, and capacity of the state transportation system. This position also supports WSDOTs strategic goals by fostering workforce development, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and ensuring resilient project delivery through adherence to agency policies, quality standards, and stewardship practices.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:

  • Prepare and review design documentation, contract plans, specifications, cost estimates, schedules, and project delivery documents for highway design projects.
  • Develop horizontal and vertical alignments, roadway geometrics, drainage systems, hydraulics, intersection layouts, right-of-way plans, and quantity calculations in accordance with current design standards and guidelines.
  • Interpret engineering policies, design manuals, construction plans, reports, and technical data to support project design and delivery activities.
  • Conduct quality reviews and verifications of plans, specifications, estimates, calculations, and design submittals to ensure accuracy, completeness, consistency, and compliance with WSDOT standards.
  • Coordinate with WSDOT offices, consultants, outside agencies, and project stakeholders to clarify technical information, obtain project data, and support project delivery commitments.
  • Operate computer-aided drafting and design software to develop engineering plans, modeling, and project visualizations for transportation projects.
  • Prepare correspondence, memorandums, reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and other technical documents for internal and external audiences.
  • Communicate technical transportation engineering information with staff, agencies, stakeholders, and the public while conducting field reviews, attending meetings, and supporting project permitting activities.

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 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.

To qualify at the Transportation Engineer 1 (TE1) level, the following is required:

  • A Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) or Structural Engineering (BSSE)

OR

  • Certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT)

In addition to the above, to qualify at the Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) level, the following is required:

  • Foundational Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, with the ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world transportation project scenarios.
  • Technical Interpretation, Analysis, and Problem Solving: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify issues or discrepancies; and apply sound engineering judgment to support effective, practical solutions.
  • Engineering Documentation and Records Management: Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, records, and other required documentation in accordance with established standards and procedures.
  • Engineering Technology and Software: Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, inspection, data collection, and project delivery (e.g., CAD, databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems). Note: Foundational knowledge may be supported by formal classroom training.

In addition to the above, the following competencies and licenses are required at either level:

  • Communication Skills: Skills to communicate information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person, using a variety of electronic media, including, but not limited to, telephones, email, text, video conferencing, and computer conferencing.
  • Project Skills: Proven skills to examine, develop, and propose alternate solutions to complex elements of a project.
  • Engineering Skills: Experience in reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
  • Teamwork Skills: Experience in being able to effectively work both individually and within a diverse team environment.
  • Work Prioritization: Experience in working independently and prioritize workload and handle multiple assignments.
  • Software Proficiency: Proficient in operating Windows-based computers and software, such as MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook; and computer applications involving databases and computer-aided engineering software.
  • Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
  • Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

  • Engineer-In-Training Certificate

Important Notes

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • This is an in-training position that provides a structured career path, hands-on experience, and mentorship opportunities. The position is designed to support professional growth and progression through the Transportation Engineer series, with advancement to the Transportation Engineer 2 level based on qualifications, demonstrated competencies, and successful performance. Candidates may be considered for either the Transportation Engineer 1 or Transportation Engineer 2 level, depending on their qualifications. Annual salary ranges for each level are listed below:
    • Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 - $87,048
    • Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 - $96,144
  • 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 are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals lifestyle.
  • 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 State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

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.
  • 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.

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 listed Recruiter.

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 .

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at ... . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32698 in the subject line.
Job ID: 523102312
Originally Posted on: 5/31/2026

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