Asphalt Laboratory Engineer (TE2)

Salary : $71,472.00 - $96,144.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-00697
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 05/28/2026
Closing Date: 6/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented individual to serve as the lead Asphalt Laboratory Engineer within the Bituminous Materials Section Asphalt Testing Laboratory. This position will support statewide WSDOT capital construction projects and local jurisdictions by overseeing verification, conformance, and specification compliance testing for performance graded (PG) asphalt binders, emulsified asphalt, and flexible bituminous pavement marker adhesive materials. The Asphalt Laboratory Engineer will also lead laboratory testing operations, assist with scheduling and training technicians, review and correct laboratory data entries, and ensure laboratory equipment calibration, maintenance, and associated records are maintained in accordance with established standards and procedures.
What to Expect

This position performs materials testing duties in a laboratory environment that includes exposure to chemicals, elevated temperatures, working with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, working with various chemicals, and nuclear electronic gauges.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Asphalt Laboratory Engineer will:

• Perform complex asphalt material testing, hands-on training, instructing, and inspecting the work of all permanent and non-permanent employees.
• Work with state-of-the-art equipment and test procedures.
• Assist with the responsibility for all aspects of testing in the Liquid Asphalt Laboratory including organizing and tracking samples, scheduling, directing, and reviewing the work of the technicians conducting testing.
• Perform all test methods assigned to the Liquid Asphalt Laboratory.
• Maintain qualifications in all PG Binder, emulsified asphalt, and flexible bituminous pavement marker adhesive.
• Prepare, analyze and correct data entries performed by all laboratory technicians.
• Maintain equipment calibrations, verifications, maintenance and associated records for all laboratory testing equipment.
• Represent WSDOT in meetings with outside Agencies and consultants for specific projects.
• Be responsible for testing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Samples and participation in AASHTO re:source onsite inspections.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balance competing priorities and deadlines, and maintain organized laboratory records.

Qualifications

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

Materials Engineering and Laboratory Operations

• Experience performing or supervising complex materials testing within an engineering or construction materials laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of advanced principles of materials engineering, including the design, testing, and performance evaluation of bituminous and related construction materials.
• Knowledge of laboratory management practices, workflow coordination, quality control, test standardization, and applicable testing methodologies and industry standards including AASHTO, ASTM, WAQTC, or equivalent.
• Skill in leading and directing laboratory operations and staff to ensure efficient, accurate, and compliant materials testing.

Quality Assurance, Data Analysis, and Technical Compliance

• Experience interpreting and validating materials test data for engineering design, specification compliance, or performance evaluation.
• Experience maintaining and calibrating specialized laboratory instruments and ensuring accuracy of results.
• Knowledge of engineering data analysis, statistical methods, quality assurance practices, accreditation processes, proficiency sample programs, and external audits.
• Skill in performing and overseeing complex materials tests, analyzing and validating test data, and ensuring procedural compliance to support engineering decisions, mixture design verification, and specification development.

Leadership, Communication, and Project Coordination

• Experience leading, mentoring, or training technical personnel in laboratory methods, equipment use, and data analysis.
• Experience preparing and presenting technical reports or findings to internal and external audiences.
• Knowledge of project coordination principles, including communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders such as engineers, consultants, contractors, and external laboratories.
• Skill in preparing detailed engineering reports, summaries, and presentations that clearly convey technical findings to varied audiences.
• Ability to communicate effectively and diplomatically with staff, engineers, contractors, and external stakeholders and represent the organization in technical meetings, reviews, and collaborative engineering projects.

Safety, Adaptability, and Technical Systems

• Knowledge of safety regulations, risk mitigation practices, and environmental considerations in materials testing laboratories.
• Skill in using specialized software and data acquisition systems for test control, data analysis, and reporting.
• Ability to adapt to and implement new technologies, testing methods, and data systems to improve laboratory performance.

Growth Mindset and Service-Oriented

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures.
• Ability to be certified by the Troxler Corporation to calibrate, repair, and maintain nuclear density gauges.
• Ability to work at elevated temperatures, with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, and with various chemicals, and nuclear electronic gauges.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances.
• Ability to work under time constraints using timers, stopwatches, etc.
• Ability to work for periods of time which may exceed normal shifts.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Status as a Qualified Tester in all tests associated with the Liquid Asphalt Laboratory and proficiency in related specialized computer programs.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes

• 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• 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 ;/li>

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.
• 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 for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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 of 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 . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-00697 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 (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 (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 , 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

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

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Please briefly describe your experience performing or supervising complex materials testing related to bituminous or construction materials. Include the types of testing performed, standards used, and your role in the process. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
02

Which statement best describes your experience leading laboratory operations and coordinating testing activities?

• I have led laboratory operations, coordinated workflow and staffing, ensured testing compliance with industry standards, and directed quality control activities in a complex laboratory environment.
• I have independently coordinated laboratory testing activities and ensured compliance with established procedures and standards.
• I have assisted with laboratory operations, testing activities, or workflow coordination under supervision.
• I have limited or no experience leading laboratory operations or coordinating testing activities.

03

Which statement best describes your knowledge and experience applying AASHTO, ASTM, WAQTC, or equivalent testing standards?

• I have extensive experience independently applying, interpreting, and overseeing compliance with multiple testing standards in a laboratory environment.
• I have working experience performing testing in accordance with established testing standards and procedures.
• I have limited exposure to testing standards but have not independently applied them in a laboratory setting.
• I have little or no experience with testing standards or methodologies.

04

Which statement best describes your experience with quality assurance and laboratory compliance activities?

• I have led quality assurance activities including proficiency testing, audit preparation, accreditation processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• I have regularly participated in quality assurance activities and maintained compliance with laboratory standards and procedures.
• I have limited experience supporting quality assurance or compliance activities.
• I have little or no experience with laboratory quality assurance processes.

05

Which statement best describes your experience troubleshooting technical, procedural, or equipment-related issues within a laboratory environment?

• I have independently identified, analyzed, and resolved complex technical or equipment issues using root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• I have regularly assisted in troubleshooting and resolving laboratory or equipment issues.
• I have limited experience troubleshooting laboratory or equipment-related issues.
• I have little or no experience troubleshooting laboratory processes or equipment.

06

Please briefly describe your experience maintaining and calibrating specialized laboratory instruments or systems. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07

Please briefly describe your experience training, mentoring, or supervising technical personnel in laboratory methods, equipment use, quality standards, or data analysis. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08

Which statement best describes your experience working in a fast-paced laboratory environment with procedural deadlines and environmental or physical demands?

• I have extensive experience working effectively in fast-paced laboratory environments while meeting strict procedural timelines and safety requirements.
• I have experience working in laboratory or technical environments with established timelines and procedures.
• I have limited experience working in fast-paced or deadline-driven technical environments.
• I have little or no experience working in laboratory or technical environments.

09

Are you able and willing to work at elevated temperatures, with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, and with various chemicals, and nuclear electronic gauges?

• Yes
• No

10

Are you able and willing to stand for long periods of time, walk long distances, and work under time constraints using timers, stopwatches, etc.?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you able and willing to work for periods of time which may exceed normal shifts?

• Yes
• No

12

Are you currently qualified to perform tests associated with a Liquid Asphalt Laboratory?

• Yes
• No

13

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

14

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question