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 a Transportation Technician to support the Bituminous Materials Section by performing laboratory testing and technical services for liquid asphalt materials and nuclear electronics that support statewide transportation construction projects and local agency partners. This position conducts verification, conformance, and specification compliance testing of performance graded (PG) asphalt binders and emulsified asphalts, assists with the calibration, maintenance, and repair of nuclear density gauges, and accurately prepares, analyzes, and documents laboratory test results. The role also supports laboratory operations by maintaining testing equipment, calibration records, and quality assurance processes to ensure reliable and accurate materials testing. Strong candidates will possess excellent laboratory and technical skills, the ability to accurately collect and document data, mechanical aptitude for maintaining testing equipment, and the ability to work collaboratively in support of safe, high-quality transportation infrastructure.
What to Expect
This position performs materials testing duties in a laboratory environment that includes exposure to chemicals, elevated temperatures, working with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, working with various chemicals, and nuclear electronic gauges.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Asphalt Laboratory Technician will:
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Perform complex asphalt materials testing.
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Assist the Asphalt Testing Engineer with daily laboratory operations, including scheduling, training, instruction, and inspecting the work of non-permanent employees.
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Work with state-of-the-art equipment and test procedures.
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Reduce, record, and interpret test data and assist the Asphalt Testing Engineer in maintaining equipment calibrations, verifications, maintenance, and associated records.
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Be responsible for testing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Samples and participation in AASHTO re:source onsite inspections.
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Maintain equipment calibrations, verifications, maintenance and associated records for all laboratory testing equipment.
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Responsible for troubleshooting and repair of nuclear gauges statewide as needed throughout the year.
Qualifications
This is a Transportation Technician 3 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, the following competencies are required:
Laboratory Testing & Equipment Operation
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Experience maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment and testing systems.
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Demonstrated ability to safely perform complex laboratory testing using precision instruments, specialized equipment, and established testing procedures while maintaining a safe and organized laboratory environment.
Quality Assurance & Laboratory Compliance
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Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control principles, laboratory safety practices, equipment calibration, verification, maintenance requirements, and technical documentation standards to ensure accurate, reliable, and compliant test results.
Technical Data Analysis & Reporting
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Experience using data acquisition systems and laboratory software to record and analyze test data.
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Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, validate, interpret, and accurately document laboratory test data using laboratory management systems, data acquisition tools, statistical methods, and related software.
Technical Troubleshooting & Problem Solving
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Demonstrated ability to identify testing or equipment issues, apply sound judgment, troubleshoot technical problems, and implement appropriate solutions while adhering to established procedures.
Planning, Organization & Time Management
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Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple assignments, manage competing deadlines, and maintain accuracy in a high-volume laboratory environment.
Communication, Mentoring & Collaboration
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Demonstrated ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with technical and non-technical audiences.
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Experience coordinating or leading work activities, training or mentoring others in a technical environment.
Adaptability & Continuous Learning
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Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new testing methods, technologies, laboratory software, and evolving industry standards.
Growth Mindset, Service Orientation & Professionalism
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Demonstrated commitment to providing responsive customer service, supporting team success, maintaining professionalism, and meeting the needs of internal and external partners.
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Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
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Takes action to meet the needs of others.
The following qualifications are also required:
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Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
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Ability to work at elevated temperatures, with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, and with various chemicals, and nuclear electronic gauges.
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Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances.
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Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
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Ability to work under time constraints using timers, stopwatches, etc.
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Ability to work for periods of time which may exceed normal shifts.
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Ability to wear appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE) and adequate clothing for specific work activity.
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Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Materials Testing & Engineering Principles
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Experience performing complex materials or product testing in a laboratory setting independently, involving asphalt, concrete or other engineering materials.
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Demonstrated knowledge of materials testing principles, engineering materials science, and the physical and mechanical properties of bituminous or comparable construction materials, including performance characteristics and failure mechanisms.
Important Notes
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This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
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To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the “Contact Us” section of this posting.
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This position is not eligible for remote work.
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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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This is a Transportation Technician 3 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:
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Transportation Technician 3: $66,072 – $88,788
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Transportation Technician 2: $56,952 – $76,608
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Transportation Technician 1: $48,048 – $64,512
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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.
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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-HQ-05160 in the subject line.
