Structural Materials Technicians (TT3 In-Training) Two Positions

State of Washington•Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking two Structural Materials Technicians (Transportation Technician 3 In-Training) to join the Headquarters Materials Laboratory in Tumwater, WA. This role offers an exciting opportunity to support the quality and safety of transportation infrastructure across Washington State by performing laboratory testing on materials used in highway construction projects. You will play a key role in evaluating the quality and acceptability of structural materials such as concrete, steel, and aggregates that support bridges, highways, and transportation systems statewide. Your work will directly contribute to safe, durable, and reliable infrastructure by ensuring materials meet rigorous engineering and construction standards before they are used in the field. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and working in a laboratory environment while building expertise in transportation materials testing. As an in-training opportunity, this role offers the chance to expand technical skills, gain certifications, and cross-train in other specialty laboratories within the Construction Materials Division.

Requirements

Demonstrated proficiency performing semi-skilled technical engineering work such as materials testing, field inspections, data collection, or drafting.
Knowledge of engineering principles, methods, and material testing procedures and ability to apply engineering concepts to support transportation projects.
Experience reading, understanding, and operating laboratory instruments, testing equipment, and engineering tools accurately and safely.
Knowledge of laboratory safety practices, construction procedures, and applicable standards with demonstrated commitment to safe work practices.
Ability to examine information, develop alternate solutions, and adapt techniques to resolve structural materials testing challenges.
Experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, or testing procedures for consistency with established standards.
Ability to communicate effectively with peers, supervisors, project staff, and technical partners both orally and in writing.
Ability to independently prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and meet deadlines in a team-oriented environment.
Ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
Ability to manipulate and carry up to 50 pounds of material or equipment without assistance.
A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
Ability to work with materials exceeding 325 degrees F and a variety of chemicals in a laboratory environment.
Ability to stand for extended periods, walk long distances, and work under time constraints.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures.
Ability to occasionally work beyond normal shifts and cross-train in other Construction Materials Division laboratories as needed.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Perform structural materials testing in accordance with AASHTO, ASTM, and WSDOT standards and procedures.
Conduct testing on aggregates, concrete, steel, and other structural materials to determine quality and acceptability for transportation projects.
Maintain required certifications and qualifications in assigned testing procedures, including ACI Strength Testing and Field-Testing certification.
Safely log, organize, prepare, move, and test material samples while following established safety procedures and lifting practices.
Operate, maintain, adjust, and verify laboratory testing equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Read, understand, and apply standard operating procedures, testing methods, and pre-activity safety plans.
Cross-train and support testing activities in other Construction Materials Division laboratories as needed.
Maintain, verify, and calibrate equipment in accordance with the Quality Systems Manual and manufacturer guidance.
Assist with organization and cleanup of laboratories, sample storage areas, and preparation spaces.
Support additional duties including employee training, safety meetings, and assisting other testing sections as business needs require.