Assistant Corridor Operations Engineer (TE3, In-Training)

State of Washington•Clark County – Vancouver, WA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking an experienced and technically skilled Assistant Corridor Operations Engineer (TE3) to support the operation of transportation systems in the Southwest Region Traffic Management Center. This engineer analyzes real-time data from traffic management systems, Washington State Patrol resources, field crews, and partner agencies to develop and implement effective responses to incidents and changing traffic conditions. The position applies advanced knowledge of traffic signals, ramp meters, advanced traffic management systems, variable message signs, peak-use shoulder lanes, and incident response strategies to optimize the transportation network. As a key point of contact during freeway and arterial emergencies, the candidate selected for this role will develop integrated response plans with local agencies and make timely decisions that directly impact public safety, mobility, and regional traffic flow.

Requirements

Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of civil engineering principles and ability to apply entry-level civil engineering practices to transportation-related projects typically demonstrated through a bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering and/or Certification as an Engineer-In-Training (EIT).
Traffic Operations Knowledge: Basic understanding of Traffic Operations, including field analysis, programming traffic system modifications, and modifying algorithms to optimize traffic flow and control.
Transportation System Technology: Ability to use established transportation managements systems and software to monitor conditions and support adjustments to traffic signals, ramp meters, signs, and other traffic control systems.
Technical & Critical Thinking: Ability to follow instructions, interpret basic data or information, and apply sound judgment and critical thinking to routine tasks.
Communication: Ability to effectively communicate technical information and coordinate with engineers, technicians, operations staff, emergency responders and partner agencies to support transportation operations.
Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated knowledge of civil engineering principles and ability to independently apply civil engineering practices to transportation-related projects.
Traffic Operations Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of Traffic Operations, including field analysis, programming traffic system modifications, and modifying algorithms to optimize traffic flow and control.
Transportation System Technology: Ability to independently evaluate, modify, and optimize traffic signals, ramp meters, Active Traffic Management systems, and other intelligent transportation systems.
Technical Communication: Ability to clearly communicate transportation engineering information, recommendations, and operational strategies and effectively coordinate with staff, field personnel and partner agencies.
Engineering Knowledge: Ability to exercise independent engineering judgment in evaluating complex transportation issues, integrating diverse technical and operational information, and developing effective strategies.
Advanced Traffic Operations Knowledge: Ability to independently apply advanced transportation engineering principles and techniques to analyze complex traffic operations, identify system deficiencies, and develop and implement solutions.
Transportation System Technology: Ability to evaluate, develop, and optimize advanced traffic management strategies, technologies, and operational algorithms to address complex and changing transportation conditions.
Technical Communication: Ability to effectively communicate complex transportation engineering information, recommendations, and operational strategies and facilitate collaboration among internal staff and partner agencies.
Innovation & Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to produce innovative solutions in work situations; tries creative and unique ways to deal with complex transportation issues.
Communication & Engagement: Demonstrated ability with clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of methods to individuals or groups in a manner that engages the audience and helps them understand and retain the information.
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Takes Action to meet the needs of others.
Ability to report to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call outside the regular work schedule.
Ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Nice To Haves

Transportation Operations Environment: Advanced proficiency in applying technical engineering practices in a major metropolitan transportation operations center, ensuring alignment with agency policies and operational standards.
Traffic Management & Operations Expertise: Advanced proficiency in Traffic Management Center operations or comparable environments with similar logistics and operational goals.
Emergency and Incident Management: Advanced understanding of emergency operations center activation, including experience acting in an Incident Command roll or equivalent.
Network and Systems Integration: Demonstrated ability using traffic monitoring software and centralized signal software, including video server systems, variable messaging systems, ramp meters, weather and data stations.
Data Analysis & Technical Tools: Senior level analytical skills with advanced proficiency in Excel and large data set management, applying engineering practices to evaluate operational data and support evidence-based decision-making.

Responsibilities

Analyze Real Time Transportation System Performance of Regional Arterial and Highway Systems.
Analyze, plan, implement, and direct others to apply system modifications to mitigate impacts due to abnormal traffic flows, special events, or incidents.
Manually adjust ramp meters and traffic signal phasing and timing.
Implement ramp and roadway closures, Active Traffic Management (ATM) and lane control signage, and Peak Use Shoulder.
Direct Traffic Management Center staff to utilize Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and Roads System to notify traveling public.
Cultivate and practice collaborative partnerships with local and bi-state agencies.
Provide strategic coordination and collaboration via the Virtual Coordination Center.
Program ramp meters, ATM settings and algorithms, and data station.
Create and review messaging plans for routine planned construction or roadway closures.
Acknowledge and professionally respond to constituent feedback on operational concerns verbally and in writing.