What are the responsibilities and job description for the Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3 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 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 to fill a non-permanent Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3 position in Spokane, WA. This position is located within a multi-jurisdictional, 24-hour Traffic Management Center (TMC), monitoring roadway conditions and traffic operations, identifying incidents and potential system issues, and coordinating timely responses. The incumbent operates and monitors Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices, including variable message signs and highway advisory radio, and communicates real-time information to internal staff, partner agencies, emergency responders, and the traveling public. These efforts support safe and efficient travel, reduce congestion, and facilitate coordinated responses to routine and emergency incidents.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Monitor and operate closed-circuit television feeds, traffic signals and detectors, variable message signs, ramp meter systems, and highway advisory radios to assess roadway conditions and traffic operations.
- Verify and report traffic incidents, equipment outages, and system malfunctions, including collisions, disabled vehicles, traffic hazards, fires, and property damage.
- Coordinate routine and emergency responses with Incident Response Teams, field personnel, and partner agencies, following events through completion of required tasks.
- Communicate time-sensitive traffic and incident information to WSDOT staff, law enforcement, emergency responders, partner agencies, and the public via telephone, two-way radio, and email.
- Maintain accurate computer entries, incident logs, files, and documentation to support timely response, information sharing, and operational continuity.
- Monitor regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices and communications systems to ensure proper operation and the transmission of accurate, timely information.
- Notify appropriate technicians and managers of equipment malfunctions or outages and evaluate new or modified equipment and software and identify and report any issues.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Dispatch & Operations Coordination: Experience in dispatching, operating two-way, multi-channel emergency radio operations, or a similar operations environment involving real-time communication and information coordination.
- Customer Service: Provides accurate and timely information to meet the needs of internal and external customers, including the traveling public, partner agencies, and field personnel.
- Interagency Coordination: Demonstrates the ability to effectively coordinate information and operational responses across multiple agencies or jurisdictions.
- Communication Skill: Effectively communicates clearly and concisely using radio, telephone, and electronic systems in high-pressure situations. Accurately relays critical information to diverse audiences, including emergency responders and the public.
- Situational Awareness & Decision-Making: Monitors multiple information sources simultaneously and evaluates conditions to identify incidents, hazards, or system issues. Exercises sound judgment to prioritize and initiate appropriate responses in time-sensitive situations.
- Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate logs, records, and system entries with a high-level of precision and timeliness.
- Multitasking & Time Management: Effectively manages multiple tasks, systems, and communications simultaneously in fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment.
- Technical Proficiency: Demonstrates the ability to learn and operate computers, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), and multi-channel communication equipment.
- Independence & Accountability: Works independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability for assigned responsibilities and outcomes.
- 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:
- Ability to sit, stand, or a combination of both for extended periods of time.
- Ability to temporarily work shifts outside normal schedules to cover unexpected operational needs, emergencies, weather, and callouts.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Traffic Operations & Incident Response: Demonstrates knowledge of roadway systems, traffic operations, incident response, or emergency response coordination.
- Traffic Management Operations: Demonstrates knowledge of Traffic Management Center (TMC) operations or similar 24/7 operational environments.
- Intelligent Transportation Systems: Demonstrates knowledge of Intelligent Transportation systems (ITS), traffic monitoring systems, or related transportation technologies.
- Technology & Systems Learning: Demonstrates the ability to quickly learn and effectively use new technology, software, communication systems, and operational tools.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last 4 months.
- This is a part-time position scheduled to work approximately 24 hours per week, with opportunities for additional hours.
- 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
- Seasonal Work – Great for those who are looking for winter seasonal work, with the potential of coming back next year.
- Holiday Pay – Winter is also holiday season! This opportunity provides up to 5 paid holidays within this non-perm duration.
- Utilize Expertise – Share your knowledge and experience with others.
- Build Your Resume – Learn new transferable skills to add to your resume.
- Benefits – Some positions may be eligible for medical and retirement benefits. Go to State Benefits for more information.
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 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 olivia.dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-ER-60416n in the subject line.
Benefits:
Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time Off, Retirement PlanSalary : $47,004 - $62,880