Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3

State of Washington•Spokane County – Spokane, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is hiring a non-permanent Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3 in Spokane, Washington. The position is based in a multi-jurisdictional, 24-hour Traffic Management Center (TMC), where the operator monitors roadway conditions and traffic operations, identifies incidents and potential system issues, and coordinates timely responses. The role operates and monitors Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices, including variable message signs and highway advisory radios, and communicates real-time information to WSDOT staff, partner agencies, emergency responders, and the traveling public. This work supports safe and efficient travel, reduces congestion, and facilitates coordinated responses to routine and emergency incidents. The position is expected to last four months and is part-time, scheduled for approximately 24 hours per week, with opportunities for additional hours. It is not eligible for remote work. The employee may need to work shifts outside normal schedules to cover unexpected operational needs, emergencies, weather, and callouts. The role requires the ability to sit, stand, or alternate between the two for extended periods.

Requirements

Experience in dispatching, operating two-way, multi-channel emergency radio operations, or a similar operations environment involving real-time communication and information coordination.
Provide accurate and timely information to internal and external customers, including the traveling public, partner agencies, and field personnel.
Ability to coordinate information and operational responses across multiple agencies or jurisdictions.
Communicate clearly and concisely using radio, telephone, and electronic systems in high-pressure situations, accurately relaying critical information to diverse audiences.
Monitor multiple information sources simultaneously and evaluate conditions to identify incidents, hazards, or system issues; use sound judgment to prioritize and initiate appropriate responses in time-sensitive situations.
Maintain accurate logs, records, and system entries with a high level of precision and timeliness.
Manage multiple tasks, systems, and communications simultaneously in a fast-paced, 24/7 operational environment.
Ability to learn and operate computers, ITS, and multi-channel communication equipment.
Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability for assigned responsibilities and outcomes.
Demonstrate a commitment to learning and growth and take action to meet the needs of others.
Ability to sit, stand, or alternate between the two for extended periods.
Ability to temporarily work shifts outside normal schedules to cover unexpected operational needs, emergencies, weather, and callouts.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of roadway systems, traffic operations, incident response, or emergency response coordination.
Knowledge of Traffic Management Center operations or similar 24/7 operational environments.
Knowledge of Intelligent Transportation Systems, traffic monitoring systems, or related transportation technologies.
Ability to quickly learn and effectively use new technology, software, communication systems, and operational tools.

Responsibilities

Monitor and operate closed-circuit television feeds, traffic signals and detectors, variable message signs, ramp meter systems, and highway advisory radios to assess roadway conditions and traffic operations.
Verify and report traffic incidents, equipment outages, and system malfunctions, including collisions, disabled vehicles, traffic hazards, fires, and property damage.
Coordinate routine and emergency responses with Incident Response Teams, field personnel, and partner agencies, following events through completion of required tasks.
Communicate time-sensitive traffic and incident information to WSDOT staff, law enforcement, emergency responders, partner agencies, and the public via telephone, two-way radio, and email.
Maintain accurate computer entries, incident logs, files, and documentation to support timely response, information sharing, and operational continuity.
Monitor regional ITS devices and communications systems to ensure proper operation and transmission of accurate, timely information.
Notify appropriate technicians and managers of equipment malfunctions or outages.
Evaluate new or modified equipment and software and identify and report issues.