Job Details

Design-Build Office Engineer - TE3

  2026-03-31     State of Washington     all cities,AK  
Description:

Salary: $78,912.00 - $106,104.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-OR-32685
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 03/26/2026
Closing Date: 4/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

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 Transportation Engineer to join our Project Engineering Office (PEO) located in Lacey, WA. This Transportation Engineer 3 is placed in the position as an Office Engineer to manage a team of Engineers in Contract Administration. This position is critical to WSDOT's long-term success by mentoring and providing on the job training for subordinate staff, assisting the PE and APE with various aspects of project management, and representing WSDOT at public meetings and open houses, and with external stakeholders to include local agencies, contractors, and consultants.

What to Expect
This position will supervise and oversee direct reports in relation to job duties and performance management; approve leave and time sheets; and ensure compliance with training and license requirements of assigned employees, while providing training, career development, and mentoring; assigning work, monitoring progress, setting expectations, providing constructive feedback, and ensuring quality control of deliverables.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, Transportation Engineer 3 will:

  • Respond to Design-Builder requests for information, Design-Builder initiated change proposals, and Serial Letters.
  • Prepare change order documentation and estimates and seek change approvals.
  • Review, comments, and timely return of Design-Builder submittals, project schedules and monthly payment invoices.
  • Recognize and plan for the mitigation of cost and schedule risks.
  • Review plan, provision, estimates, and permit requirements
  • Monitor and track project agreements.
  • Develop scope of work agreements and independent engineering estimates.
  • Initiate and seek necessary approvals for task order amendments.
  • Develop and monitor project budgets. Complete monthly budget aging reports.
  • Lead efforts ensuring contract documents are uploaded to cloud computing databases, i.e., WSDOT Enterprise Contracts Management System (ECMS).
  • Supervise the material documentation and project testing program.
  • Monitor materials documentation for contract compliance in computerized software programs, such as Statistical Analysis of Materials (SAM) and Materials Management System (MATS) programs. Monitors the project Record of Materials (ROM) for contract compliance.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
  • Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to project management in transportation or construction environments. This includes expertise in design development, construction techniques, and/or contract administration.
  • Project & Design Oversight: Ability to oversee and review engineering designs and documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and constructability, while supervising the preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
  • Technical & Digital Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based systems and engineering software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams, cloud-based platforms, and system databases for project tracking and information management.
  • Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communicating technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, by phone, and in person.
  • Leadership & Supervision: Skills to lead and supervise a diverse workforce by fostering collaboration across boundaries, building and maintaining effective teams, coaching and mentoring staff, and encouraging engagement and professional growth.
  • Vehicle Operation for Fieldwork: Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
  • Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the above, the following are also required:
  • Inspection Certification and Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrated ability to meet the requirements for certification as a Certified General Inspector or the ability to obtain certification within six (6) months of appointment.
  • Field Equipment Handling and Measurement: Demonstrated ability to safely transport, move, set up, and use field equipment to measure, observe, and document site conditions, including measuring wheels, stakes, levels, tripods, and hand tools.
  • Field Mobility and Terrain Navigation: Demonstrated ability to safely traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain while maintaining situational awareness and adhering to WSDOT safety practices.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
  • Engineering Knowledge and Application: Demonstrated ability to apply civil, structural, geotechnical, soil mechanics, traffic, computer aided engineering applications, and transportation engineering principles to analyze problems, evaluate alternatives, and support engineering decisions.
  • Professional Engineering Credential: Possession of, or eligibility to obtain, an Engineer in Training (EIT) certification or Professional Civil Engineer (PE) license, demonstrating foundational or advanced competency in engineering standards, ethics, and practice.
  • Project Management and Coordination: Demonstrated ability to manage and deliver multiple engineering projects involving diverse disciplines, internal support groups, stakeholders, and local or external agencies.
  • Plan and Specification Review: Demonstrated skill in reviewing, interpreting, and evaluating engineering plans, specifications, and related construction documents to determine conformance with established standards and requirements.
  • Engineering Analysis and Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to examine complex engineering issues, develop and evaluate alternatives, and propose effective, practical solutions.
Important Notes
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid telework options.
  • Field work is conducted outdoors in all weather conditions, during both day and night, and often requires navigating rough or uneven terrain. The work involves standing for long periods, working at or near ground level, and handling or transporting field equipment. Employees may be exposed to typical highway and construction-related hazards such as severe weather, noise, poor air quality, high-speed traffic, heavy machinery, chemicals, and nearby bodies of water, as well as potential exposure to sanitary waste.
  • 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in 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
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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.
Check out this video to learn more:

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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32685 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 (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 (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 , 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

How would you rate your experience applying engineering principles to transportation or construction projects?
  • Limited - Exposure to engineering principles with application primarily under supervision or in a support role.
  • Moderate - Regular application of engineering principles on projects with shared responsibility for analysis, design, or implementation.
  • Extensive - Independent and frequent application of engineering principles, including leading analyses, design decisions, or problem resolution on complex projects.

02

How frequently have you reviewed engineering plans, specifications, or cost estimates for accuracy and compliance?
  • Never - No direct experience performing this activity.
  • Occasionally - Performed infrequently or in a limited support capacity.
  • Regularly - Performed as a routine part of assigned job duties.
  • Routinely as primary reviewer - Served as the main reviewer with responsibility for evaluating accuracy, compliance, and recommendations.

03

Have you identified constructability issues or design conflicts during plan review?
  • Yes
  • No

04

Rate your proficiency using Windows-based systems and MS Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint):
  • None
  • Basic - Performs standard tasks with guidance, limited use of features and functions.
  • Intermediate - Independently uses common features to complete work efficiently; may support others.
  • Advanced - Expert-level use of features and functions; develops tools, improves workflows, and trains or advises others.

05

Have you presented or explained technical issues virtually or in person to stakeholders or the public?
  • Yes
  • No

06

Have you supervised or led staff, consultants, or multidisciplinary teams?
  • Yes
  • No

07

Have you provided coaching, mentoring, or performance feedback to staff?
  • Never - No experience providing coaching, mentoring, or performance feedback.
  • Occasionally - Provided coaching, mentoring, or feedback on a limited or situational basis.
  • Regularly - Routinely provides coaching, mentoring, and/or performance feedback as an ongoing responsibility.

08

Are you able and willing to operate state-owned vehicles for work-related travel?
  • Yes
  • No

09

Are you able to safely traverse rough, steep, or uneven terrain as part of field inspections?
  • Yes
  • No

10

Do you currently hold an Engineer in Training (EIT) certification?
  • Yes
  • No

11

Do you currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license?
  • Yes
  • No

12

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • 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)

13

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question


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