Environmental Review and Permitting Engineer (TE 2, In-Training)

State of Washington•Thurston County – Lacey, WA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) to join the Environmental & Hydraulic Services (EHS) Office, Design Bid Build Permits & Documentation Unit in Lacey, WA. In this role, you will support the delivery of transportation projects throughout the Olympic Region by preparing environmental review documents and permit applications required for project approval and construction authorization. You will collaborate with project teams, environmental specialists, and regulatory agencies to identify permitting needs, determine required environmental investigations and supporting documentation, and ensure projects comply with federal and state environmental regulations, policies, and agency standards, including National and State Environmental Policy Act requirements. This position also provides Environmental Compliance Support, by conducting field investigations and site reviews to verify compliance with environmental commitments, permit conditions, and regulatory requirements during project delivery. This is an excellent opportunity for an emerging engineering professional interested in environmental stewardship, transportation infrastructure, and public service while helping advance the mission, vision, and values of Washington State Department of Transportation.

Requirements

Foundational knowledge of basic engineering and mathematical principles to solve routine engineering problems, typically gained through education, experience, training, or certification (EIT or LSIT).
Ability to apply this knowledge to design, construction, and inspection tasks.
Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, with the ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world transportation project scenarios.
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 effective, practical solutions.
Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, records, and other required documentation in accordance with established standards and procedures.
Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, inspection, data collection, and project delivery (e.g., databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems).
Proficient in using engineering and office software tools to analyze data, develop reports, and support project decisions. Experience with spreadsheets, databases, and other analytical tools is essential for managing technical documentation, interpreting results, and ensuring accurate reporting.
Skills in communicating information effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing, to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person. Including listening, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back on constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments, often under tight deadlines. Candidates must be able to track concurrent projects, maintain clear documentation, and ensure timely delivery of tasks in alignment with project schedules and agency objectives.
Experience learning and applying standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation engineering projects.
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.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge and understanding of environmental documentation, including NEPA and SEPA, and environmental permitting requirements as they relate to transportation projects.
Experience preparing and writing environmental review documents and environmental permit applications.
Experience analyzing environmental issues and compliance challenges related to transportation projects and applying appropriate solutions.
Advanced knowledge of environmental compliance in the field for transportation projects.
Field experience involving construction inspection and contract enforcement of environmental requirements.

Responsibilities

Prepare permit applications and determine supporting documentation, mainly for Design Bid Build projects.
Contact, coordinate, meet, and negotiate with resource and permitting agency personnel to obtain permits.
Review draft contract plans and specifications.
Identify and coordinate obtaining needed supporting documentation for permits and documentation.
Determine preliminary environmental impacts and likely environmental documentation and permitting needs for assigned projects in the project definition phase.
Prepare and write environmental review documents.
Conduct field compliance checks of project sites.