State of Washington - Washington Department of Transportation

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a knowledgeable and detail-oriented individual to serve as a Utility Accommodations Engineer. In this role, you will help ensure the safe integration of utility infrastructure within the state highway right-of-way, supporting community needs while protecting the safety of the traveling public. This position is essential to the agency’s mission and values, serving as the regulatory authority for third-party utility projects and ensuring compliance with WAC 468-34 through technical review, permitting, and construction oversight. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the safety and functionality of Washington’s transportation system. The ideal candidate will have strong technical and regulatory knowledge, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to effectively coordinate with utility partners while upholding WSDOT’s commitment to safety, service, and infrastructure integrity.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Utility Accommodations Engineer will:

• Process and prepare utility permits and franchises for execution by the Department.
• Research and review applications submitted by utilities for placement of their facilities in state right-of-way.
• Assist with the overview of the Region accommodation team for the review, analysis, and coordination of permit/franchise applications for utility accommodation on state right of way.
• Assist in guiding the internal review process with WSDOT support groups as it pertains to the approval of franchise/permit applications.
• Assist in the interpretation and development of utility accommodation policy.
• Oversee, direct, and manage the work of the utility staff involved in the processing of utility permits and franchises; oversee the inspection of utility installations covered by permits and/or franchises.
• Supervise and assign inspectors to inspect the work of Contractors and utility personnel constructing facilities within the highway right-of-way.
• Assist the South Central Region Utilities Engineer with workforce budgeting, planning, management, development, mentoring, and coaching of the region utilities accommodation team.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience performing transportation or civil engineering work in design, construction, or planning within a state, federal, or utility infrastructure context. Proficient in reading, interpreting, and applying construction contract plans, specifications, and related engineering documents and the ability to understand and apply applicable state and federal regulations, including RCWs, WACs, FHWA regulations (CFRs), and agency-specific standards and policies.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with internal staff, external partners, and stakeholders. Proven ability to explain technical information and regulatory requirements clearly and respectfully to diverse audiences.
• Regulatory & Policy Application: Ability to interpret, apply, and communicate complex policies, procedures, and legal requirements relevant to utility permitting and right-of-way usage. Knowledge of permitting processes, utility accommodation standards, and public infrastructure coordination.
• Software Proficiency: Proficient in the use of standard office software including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat to prepare correspondence, maintain records, and produce technical documents and drawings.
• Collaboration & Organization: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities, coordinate with multiple parties, and maintain accurate documentation. Demonstrated commitment to supporting organizational goals and contributing to WSDOT’s strategic plan through responsible, service-oriented work.
• Ability to travel for off-site meetings, training, and fieldwork as needed.
• A valid driver’s license.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or related field, or an Associate of Science degree in Engineering or closely related field.
• Experience facilitating negotiations and managing the logistics of meetings and meeting materials with internal and external customers.
• Ability to work as part of a team, follow instructions, and accept constructive feedback.
• Ability to build and maintain working relationships with a variety of business partners and stakeholders.
• Experience prioritizing a busy workload to address the needs of internal and external customers.
• Experience working independently with general direction and minimal supervision.
• Experience leading, training, and coaching staff.
• Basic accounting training and/or experience.
• Experience working with Chart of Accounts, and be able to obtain a wide variety of information from data mart through Data Mart.
• Experience working within a multidisciplinary team.

Important Notes

• The salary range listed includes the 3% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2025.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit, please visit www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-SCR-51124 in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

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