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 two Construction Inspectors to support the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program, one of the agency's largest and most complex megaprograms. In these roles, you will perform quality verification inspections on Design-Build projects to ensure construction activities comply with contract requirements while supporting the successful delivery of critical transportation improvements along the SR 520 corridor. Working as part of a collaborative project team, you will help uphold WSDOT's commitment to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation infrastructure through accurate inspections, documentation, and coordination with project stakeholders. Strong candidates will possess knowledge of construction inspection practices, sound judgment, strong communication and collaboration skills, and the ability to interpret contract requirements while working effectively in a dynamic construction environment.
What to Expect
These positions will perform work in an office and the field. Field site visits to active construction sites are required. Exposure to hazards may include inclement weather, traffic, or working on uneven or steep terrain. In addition to traversing across uneven surfaces and performing work in dirty/dusty/noisy environments.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Construction Inspectors will:
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Perform Quality Verification (QV) environmental inspection to check work for compliance with contract requirements, plans, permits, and commitments.
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Inspect project sites and evaluate project work to detect design malfunctions and check work for conformance to design specifications and applicable codes.
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Prepare reports and document project activities and data into Inspector Daily Reports (IDRs).
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Produce Inspector Daily Reports to document performed inspection duties and track Design-Builder's daily construction activities.
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Maintain daily logs and supplement inspection records with photographs.
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Address maintenance issues occurring at project site with supervisor and discuss potential resolutions.
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Monitor construction schedule, delays, and potential change order issues.
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Read and review contract documents and specifications to determine dimensions of structure or system and material requirements to identify potential issues.
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Advise Design-Builder of resolution to problems involving public safety and quality.
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Assist the Lead Inspector in reviewing the monthly progress payment invoice.
Qualifications
To be considered for these opportunities, the following competencies are required:
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Civil Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of civil engineering principles and ability to apply entry-level civil engineering practices to transportation-related projects.
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Engineering Analysis & Technical Judgment: Ability to exercise sound engineering judgment and interpret and analyze construction contract plans, specifications, estimates, permits, and other documentation for conformance with policies, regulations, and standards.
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Construction Engineering & Inspection: Strong understanding of transportation construction practices, engineering principles, and project delivery processes.
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Technical Engineering Mathematics: Knowledge of basic engineering and mathematical principles (i.e. calculus, trigonometry, and construction related math) to solve routine technical problems.
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Communication & Technical Writing: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare clear, concise technical and administrative correspondence and effectively communicate with internal staff, partner agencies, contractors, and the public.
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Technology & Computer Applications: Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, to support engineering, documentation, communication, and project coordination activities.
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Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
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Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
The following qualifications are also required:
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A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
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Ability to conduct field site visits in inclement weather, near traffic, or on uneven or steep terrain.
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Ability to adjust the work schedule to meet business needs, to coincide with contractors’ activities as needed, working long hours and nights as needed.
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General Inspector Certification in aggregate, concrete, and hot mix asphalt density, or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
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Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) certification, or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
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Design-Build Quality Verification: Demonstrated experience supporting Design-Build transportation projects by performing quality verification inspections, material testing, or related quality assurance activities.
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Quality Assurance & Audit Practices: Demonstrated experience conducting or supporting quality verification audits, evaluating quality control and quality assurance processes, and documenting findings for transportation construction projects.
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Transportation Standards & Specifications: Knowledge of transportation engineering standards, specifications, and guidance, including WSDOT standards, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) guidance, and comparable transportation agency standards.
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Tester Certification: Qualified tester status in the aggregate, concrete, and hot mix asphalt density modules.
Important Notes
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The salary range listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County, and a general wage increase of 2% effective on July 1, 2026.
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This recruitment will be used to fill two (2) vacancies and may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
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These positions offer limited flexible/hybrid remote work options. Regular travel is required, and is typically local or regional, to meet conduct site visits, or attend training.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
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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.
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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:
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An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
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An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
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Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at
[email protected]. Please be sure to reference
26DOT-NWR-80520m in the subject line.
