Assistant Office Engineer (TE2, In-Training)

State of Washington•Pierce County – Tacoma, WA

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a motivated Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) to serve as the Assistant Office Engineer in Tacoma, WA. This role is crucial for delivering highway construction projects that enhance the safety, reliability, quality, and capacity of Washington’s transportation system. The position ensures projects adhere to standard specifications, contract requirements, and approved plans, supporting WSDOT’s commitment to quality, stewardship, and public service. The Assistant Office Engineer will support construction project delivery through inspection of highway contract work, reviewing and processing contractor submittals, maintaining accurate project documentation and accounting records, and verifying timely and accurate payments for completed work. This role involves collaboration with project teams, contractors, and agency partners to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in accordance with WSDOT policies, procedures, and strategic goals for long-term transportation infrastructure resilience.

Requirements

Transportation Engineer 1 (TE1) level: Engineering Fundamentals: Foundational knowledge of civil and transportation engineering principles, methods, and mathematical concepts used to solve routine engineering problems. Ability to apply this knowledge to support design, construction, inspection, and analysis activities, typically gained through education, training, or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) Level: Engineering Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge and practical understanding of engineering principles, methods, and practices applicable to transportation projects. Ability to independently apply this knowledge to engineering assignments, including design development, construction techniques, material testing procedures, and/or contract administration.
Analytical and Technical Review: Ability to examine engineering data and project elements, develop and propose alternate solutions to complex problems, and review engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in operating Windows-based computers and software, including MS Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, SharePoint), as well as databases.
Communication Skills: Ability to communicate technical information effectively and professionally to diverse audiences, including individuals with non-technical backgrounds, using virtual platforms, telephone, email, and in person communication.
Collaboration & Work Management: Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and produce accurate and consistent results.
Respectful Workplace: Demonstrated commitment to professional growth, respectful communication, and contributing to an inclusive and collaborative work environment.
Driver’s License: Possession of a valid, unrestricted driver’s license to operate vehicles in Washington State.
Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Nice To Haves

Project Tracking & Contract Administration Systems: Demonstrated experience utilizing project tracking and contract administration systems (e.g., CCIS, CAPS, Unifier, DMCS) to update records, generate reports, and support contract estimate preparation while ensuring data accuracy and compliance with established procedures.
Change Order Management: Proven ability to manage change orders for construction projects, including reviewing, processing, and tracking modifications to contracts while ensuring alignment with project scope, timelines, and contractual requirements.

Responsibilities

Prepare and generate progress estimates.
Review and verify payment documentation for completeness and accuracy.
Compile wage and equipment rates for force account work.
Monitor and adjust all payments for materials on hand.
Review contractors’ payrolls, Diverse Business Program goals, apprentice utilization and training programs.
Review and process material documentation.
Maintain the Record of Materials (ROM).
Coordinate with WSDOT staff and the Contractor.
Maintain the Statistical Analysis of Materials (SAM) program.
Instruct personnel to sample materials.
Determine the acceptability of materials during progress estimate preparation.
Prepare plans, specifications and estimates for change orders.
Review construction schedule for impacts.
Verify approvals.
Prepare justification records and the change order checklist.
Track change orders in Construction Contracts Information System.
Process, track and coordinate design build documentation.
Track, review, coordinate with subject matter experts and process design build documentation.
Prepare professional letters, reports, and other required documentation for the public and other external customers.
Apply sound engineering judgment to interpret data, identify problems, and develop solutions.
Track, document, and report daily work activities.