What are the responsibilities and job description for the Traffic Safety Systems Operator 1 (Non-Permanent) position at State of Washington Dept. of Transportation?
Description
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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Traffic Safety Systems Operator (TSSO) 1 to support the agency’s mission by aiding and supporting communications to maintenance crews and the traveling public to promote safe travel in North Central Region. This position is responsible for communicating with maintenance crews, the public, law enforcement and other government agencies. The TSSO 1 monitors traffic activity and events using traffic cameras, scanner, and radio, and operates Variable Message Signs, Variable Speed Limit Signs, regionwide radio, computer workstation, video wall, traffic cameras, web notification tools, highway alerts by email as needed. The incumbent is expected to consider personnel, co-workers, and public safety as the first and foremost objective during the planning and performance of all activities in connection with work assignments.
What to Expect
The work schedule will vary with both day shift and night shift as the TMC is staffed 24 hours per day and seven days per week during the winter. Weekends and holidays may be required to fill 24/7 scheduled shifts.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the TSSO 1 will:
- Operate the region radio dispatch system and generate thorough, complete, and clearly written radio log entries.
- Operate several messaging systems including Variable Message Signs, Variable Speed Limit Signs, Mountain Pass web tool, and highway alert email system.
- Communicate with WSDOT field units, other Traffic Management Centers, law enforcement, other government agencies, and the public via phone, radio, and email.
- Monitor traffic activities.
- Contact via phone off-duty personnel for call-in work as well as advise management positions of priority or notable events.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Communication: Conveys clear, accurate, and professional information through radio, phone, email, and written logs.
- Situational Awareness & Safety: Ability to monitor traffic activity and prioritizes safety of personnel, co-workers, and the public in all decisions.
- Technical Systems Operation: Ability to operate traffic management tools and computer programs to monitor traffic and communicate information.
- Collaboration & Respect: Works cooperatively with crews, agencies, and the public while fostering a respectful, inclusive environment.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- One (1) year of experience as a principal radio operator or dispatcher using multi-band, two-way radio equipment and personal computers.
- Experience operating communications systems.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This is a non-permanent opportunity expected to last until March 2026.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- Application review will begin on October 7, 2025. Candidate selection may take place at any time thereafter. It is to your advantage to apply as soon as possible.
- 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.
- 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.
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 alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-NCR-21400nm in the subject line.
