What are the responsibilities and job description for the Design/Construction Engineer (TE2) In-Training | Multiple Positions position at State of Washington?
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 multiple Transportation Engineer 2s (TE2) In-Training to join the Project Engineer Office (PEO) out of Chehalis, Kelso, and Vancouver, WA. These roles support the agency’s mission by ensuring highway transportation projects are designed and built in compliance with standard specifications, contract specifications and contract plans. The work of this position improves the safety, quality, and capacity of the State’s transportation system, and are placed in the position as a lead designer, inspector, and quality auditor of highway transportation projects. This position supports the WSDOT strategic plan and agency emphasis areas of Inclusion, Workforce Development, and Resiliency.
What To Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Design/Construction Engineer will:
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 be considered for this opportunity at any level, the following are required:
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:
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-SWR-40127m in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
01
Please select the location(s) you are interested in:
Please rate your level of experience with applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world, beginning-level transportation project scenarios—including design, materials, and construction activities.
Briefly describe how you gained experience with applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world, beginning-level transportation project scenarios—including design, materials, and construction activities. If you do not have this experience, type N/A.
04
Do you have experience performing inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials?
Do you have a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?
Do you have an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification?
Please Indicate Your Highest Level Of Completed Education
Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.
09
Do you have a Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods?
Inspection work may include exposure to adverse weather conditions and traversing uneven terrain for both day and night operations. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
Occasional extended hours may be required and may need to work nights; may need to adjust schedule in accordance with contractor schedules during inspection season. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
If You Selected 'Other' On The Previous Question, Please Specify How You Learned Of This Employment Opportunity In The Space Provided
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 multiple Transportation Engineer 2s (TE2) In-Training to join the Project Engineer Office (PEO) out of Chehalis, Kelso, and Vancouver, WA. These roles support the agency’s mission by ensuring highway transportation projects are designed and built in compliance with standard specifications, contract specifications and contract plans. The work of this position improves the safety, quality, and capacity of the State’s transportation system, and are placed in the position as a lead designer, inspector, and quality auditor of highway transportation projects. This position supports the WSDOT strategic plan and agency emphasis areas of Inclusion, Workforce Development, and Resiliency.
What To Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Design/Construction Engineer will:
- Coordinate or perform site reviews and the collection of existing available data of the project area.
- From basic data, utilize CAD software to draft sheets for design reports and contract plans.
- Utilize manual methods or applicable computer software to create alignments, develop cross sections, determine earthwork quantities, calculate estimate costs, perform hydraulic analyses, and develop schedules.
- Provide oversight inspection of the construction work for conformance to the Contract and environmental permits.
- Prepare detailed and accurate contract documentation and engineering reports that support design.
- Monitor quantity and quality of materials placed; verify materials are approved prior to incorporation into the project.
- Evaluate, track and obtain approval of contractor submittals; monitor construction schedule and budget; assist in preparation of change order documentation.
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 be considered for this opportunity at any level, the following are required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire.
- Technical Engineering Knowledge: Bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering OR certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT); Basic understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles obtained through education, practical experience; Basic understanding of engineering concepts, standards, and practices and its application to real-world, beginning level transportation project scenarios, including design, materials, and construction activities.
- Technical Competence: Skills in assisting with inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials to ensure compliance with agency and industry specifications; Ability to interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents to support field and office engineering functions.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Knowledge/Understanding of identifying, analyzing, and resolving technical issues using sound engineering judgement; Skills in evaluating data, test results, and site conditions to ensure compliance with project requirements.
- Communication: Skills in communicating effectively with project teams, contractors, and stakeholders in both verbal and written formats; Ability to prepare accurate reports, field notes, and correspondence related to construction inspection and materials testing under the supervision of higher-level engineer.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Construction Inspection Skills: Beginning level design or construction inspection working experience gained through an internship or work experience on transportation engineering projects.
- Technical Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying foundational and advanced knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles obtained through education, practical experience, or certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT); Ability to apply engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world transportation project scenarios, including design, materials, and construction activities.
- Technical Competence: Skills in performing inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials to ensure compliance with agency and industry specifications; Ability to interpret engineering plans, specifications, and contract documents to support field and office engineering functions.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated experience identifying, analyzing, and resolving technical issues using sound engineering judgement; Skills in evaluating data, test results, and site conditions to ensure compliance with project requirements and recommending corrective actions when necessary.
- Communication: Skills in communicating effectively with project teams, contractors, and stakeholders in both verbal and written formats; Ability to give guidance or prepare accurate reports, field notes, and correspondence related to construction inspection and materials testing.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Integrated Project Delivery & Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated competency in all aspects of project delivery—including scoping, design, developing procurement documents, construction inspection/compliance, and construction administration—supported by certification as an Engineer-In-Training.
- This recruitment will be used to fill multiple permanent positions in the Southwest Region, including Chehalis, Vancouver, and Kelso, WA. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacated positions.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Regular travel to and from construction sites to perform inspection and/or materials testing in assigned geographic area; occasional travel to other office locations to attend meetings or training. Occasionally, may need to stay out of town overnight for an extended period of time to oversee construction projects.
- 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.
- 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. The base salaries for each level are:
- Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 – $87,048
- Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 – $96,144
- 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.
- 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 telework options for eligible positions.
- 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.
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.
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-SWR-40127m in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement And Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025
01
Please select the location(s) you are interested in:
- Kelso, WA
- Vancouver, WA
- Chehalis, WA
Please rate your level of experience with applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world, beginning-level transportation project scenarios—including design, materials, and construction activities.
- No Experience: I have no experience applying engineering concepts, standards, or practices to transportation project scenarios.
- Limited Experience: I have a basic awareness of engineering concepts or standards but little to no practical application in transportation design, materials, or construction activities.
- Moderate Experience: I have some hands-on experience applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to beginning-level transportation project tasks, with some guidance.
- Proficient: I can independently apply engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world, beginning-level transportation design, materials, and construction activities.
- Advanced/Expert: I have extensive, confident experience applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to a wide range of transportation project scenarios and can mentor others in these tasks.
Briefly describe how you gained experience with applying engineering concepts, standards, and practices to real-world, beginning-level transportation project scenarios—including design, materials, and construction activities. If you do not have this experience, type N/A.
04
Do you have experience performing inspection, testing, and documentation of construction materials?
- Yes
- No
Do you have a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?
- Yes
- No
Do you have an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification?
- Yes
- No
Please Indicate Your Highest Level Of Completed Education
- High school diploma or GED
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree or higher
- None of the above
Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.
09
Do you have a Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC) Certification and American Concrete (ACI) in assigned test methods?
- Yes
- No
Inspection work may include exposure to adverse weather conditions and traversing uneven terrain for both day and night operations. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
- Yes
- No
Occasional extended hours may be required and may need to work nights; may need to adjust schedule in accordance with contractor schedules during inspection season. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
- Yes
- No
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- Handshake
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
If You Selected 'Other' On The Previous Question, Please Specify How You Learned Of This Employment Opportunity In The Space Provided
- Required Question
Salary : $28 - $31