Design & Quality Support Engineer (TE2) In-Training

State of Washington • Thurston County – Lacey, WA

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

WSDOT is seeking a Design & Quality Support Engineer (Transportation Engineer 2) for the Olympic Region Plans Office in Lacey, Washington. The role prepares design documentation, plans, specifications, cost estimates, and schedules for highway construction projects, and provides project review and quality-control support to help ensure designs meet WSDOT standards and contract requirements. The work supports the safety, quality, and capacity of Washington’s transportation system, as well as responsible stewardship and long-term resilience.

The hiring manager may fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on the candidate’s qualifications, with the opportunity to gain required experience through a formal in-training plan. The position offers flexible/hybrid remote-work options, with an expectation of working in the office one day per week, depending on schedule and business needs. Candidates should be able to travel for site and field visits, off-site meetings, stakeholder meetings, or training, and meet the stated physical requirements for traversing terrain and standing.

The position is advertised at Transportation Engineer 2, with a base salary range of $72,900–$98,064. The Transportation Engineer 1 in-training level has a base salary range of $66,072–$88,788. Salary may be evaluated based on relevant experience. Applications must include a detailed work history, a resume, a cover letter, and contact information for at least three references.

Requirements

• Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles and ability to apply engineering concepts to transportation project scenarios; formal classroom training may support this knowledge.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify issues or discrepancies; and apply sound engineering judgment to support practical solutions.
• Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project-support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, and records in accordance with established standards and procedures.
• Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools, such as CAD, databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems.
• At the Transportation Engineer 1 in-training level, knowledge of basic engineering principles, typically demonstrated through a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering, or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with diverse audiences, including people without technical backgrounds, in person and virtually using electronic media.
• Skill in examining, developing, and proposing alternative solutions to complex project elements.
• Experience reviewing engineering plans and specifications for compliance with established standards.
• Experience working effectively both independently and within a diverse team environment.
• Experience working independently, prioritizing workload, and handling multiple assignments.
• Proficiency with Windows-based computers and software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook), database applications, and computer-aided engineering software.
• Demonstrate a commitment to learning and growth.
• Take action to meet the needs of others.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain; perform duties low to the ground or at ground level; and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to travel for site and field visits, off-site meetings, stakeholder meetings, or training.

Nice To Haves

• Certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT).

Responsibilities

• Prepare contract plans, specifications, and cost estimates (PS&Es) for highway construction projects.
• Review and interpret written policies, engineering design manuals, construction plans, and engineering reports to prepare contract PS&Es.
• Develop horizontal and vertical alignments, structure site data packages, intersection and channelization plans, hydraulics, drainage, right-of-way plans, roadway sections, quantity calculations, and geometrics.
• Use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems to develop engineering designs, plans, and highway project models.
• Oversee, instruct, and direct work performed by transportation technicians.
• Conduct project site visits to observe, gather information, and verify as-built conditions.
• Create and assemble documentation of design standards and decisions made during the design process.
• Provide project review and quality-control support to regional project offices.

Benefits

• Flexible schedule options, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Up to 25 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Tuition assistance options for permanent employees, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Comprehensive benefits package with a variety of healthcare options.
• Choice of state retirement programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level