Development Services Engineer (TE3)

Salary : $78,912.00 - $106,104.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-OR-30181
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 06/30/2026
Closing Date: 7/14/2026 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 collaborative Transportation Engineer 3 to join our Development Services team in Lacey, WA. In this impactful role, you will help shape the future of Washington's transportation system by ensuring developer, tribal, and local agency highway improvement projects are designed and constructed in accordance with WSDOT standards, policies, and engineering best practices. Your expertise will help protect the integrity of the state highway system while supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Reporting to the Development Services Engineer, you will provide technical oversight by reviewing plans and specifications prepared outside of WSDOT, monitoring construction quality, and collaborating with developers, consultants, contractors, local agencies, and tribal partners throughout project delivery. You will also support the Region's Access Management Program by preparing Access Connection Permits and other right-of-way permits, including General, Transit, Subterranean Monitoring Well, and Roadside Vegetation Permits. As a trusted representative of WSDOT, you'll build strong partnerships, provide technical guidance, and help deliver projects that serve Washington communities for years to come.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Development Services Engineer will:

• Perform site Inspections to ensure adherence to WSDOT standards and policies.
• Independently serves as Development Services and Local Agency Construction Representative for the Construction Administration of Developer and Local Agency Roadway Improvement Projects on WSDOT right-of-way.
• Enforce Developer and Local Agency compliance with applicable Standard Plans, Specifications, State Laws, Policies.
• Provide construction engineering expertise and guidance to Developers, Local Agencies, and their Contractors
• Conduct Pre-Construction Conferences and represents WSDOT in other meetings with Developers, Local Agency Officials, Contractors, Utility Companies.
• Perform final project acceptance inspections and recommend release of the surety bond.
• Review and approve contractor's Request for Approval of Materials Sources (RAMS).
• Assure that proposed materials for use on Developer and Local Agency Construction Projects are from pre-approved sources, listed in WSDOT's Qualified Products List (QPL) or approved RAM.
• Schedule the activities of other WSDOT specialists
• Administer review and acceptance of Traffic Control Plans with the Olympic Region Traffic Office.
• Enforce Contractor compliance with the approved Traffic Control Plans and the proper construction safety standards for work performed on WSDOT right-of-way.

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to project management in transportation or construction environments. This includes expertise in design development, construction techniques, and/or contract administration.
• Project Oversight: Ability to oversee and review engineering designs and documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and constructability.
• Technical and Digital Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based systems and engineering software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams, cloud-based platforms, and system databases for project tracking and information management.
• Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communicating technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, by phone, and in person.
• Leadership: Skills to lead a diverse workforce by fostering collaboration across boundaries, building and maintaining effective teams.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Travel and Flexible Work Hours: Willingness to travel to sites across 7 counties and work occasional nights.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Certification as a Certified General Inspector or obtain within six (6) months of appointment.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Engineering Knowledge and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated understanding of WSDOT civil, structural, geotechnical, transportation, or related engineering principles, methods, and standards.
• Professional Engineering Credentials: Ability to apply engineering judgment and ethical practice consistent with recognized certification or licensure requirements.
• Project and Program Management: Proven ability to coordinate, manage, and deliver multiple engineering projects involving interdisciplinary teams, support groups, stakeholders, and partnering agencies.
• Plan and Specification Review: Skilled in reviewing, interpreting, and validating engineering plans, specifications, and construction documents to ensure compliance with applicable WSDOT standards and requirements.
• Engineering Analysis and Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex engineering challenges, develop alternative approaches, and recommend effective technical solutions.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• 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.
• 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

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may 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. This information can 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Please be sure to reference Development Services Engineer #30181 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

Which statement best describes your experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to transportation or construction projects?

• I am recognized as a subject matter expert and have independently applied engineering principles to complex transportation or construction projects, providing technical guidance and resolving highly complex engineering issues.
• I have independently applied engineering principles to transportation or construction projects, including design development, construction support, contract administration, and technical problem-solving.
• I have applied engineering principles to transportation or construction projects with occasional guidance from senior engineering staff.
• I have limited experience applying engineering principles to transportation or construction projects.
• I have no experience applying engineering principles to transportation or construction projects.

02

Please briefly describe your experience applying engineering principles, methods, and practices to transportation or construction projects. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03

Which statement best describes your experience with transportation project design, construction, or contract administration?

• I have independently led or managed transportation project design, construction activities, and/or contract administration for complex projects.
• I have independently performed transportation project design, construction support, and/or contract administration responsibilities.
• I have assisted with transportation project design, construction activities, or contract administration under the guidance of experienced staff.
• I have limited exposure to transportation project design, construction, or contract administration.
• I have no experience with transportation project design, construction, or contract administration.

04

Please briefly describe your experience with transportation project design, construction, or contract administration. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
05

Which statement best describes your experience with transportation project design, construction, or contract administration?

• I have independently reviewed and approved complex engineering plans and specifications, ensuring compliance with standards, policies, and constructability requirements.
• I have independently reviewed engineering plans and specifications and provided technical comments or recommendations for compliance.
• I have participated in reviewing engineering plans and specifications under the guidance of senior engineering staff.
• I have limited experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, or technical documents.
• I have no experience reviewing engineering plans, specifications, or technical documents.

06

Please briefly describe your experience with transportation project design, construction, or contract administration. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
07

Which statement best describes your experience providing engineering oversight during construction?

• I have independently served as the engineering lead during construction, resolving complex field issues, interpreting plans and specifications, and ensuring compliance with engineering standards and contract requirements.
• I have independently provided engineering support during construction, including responding to technical questions, reviewing changes, and monitoring compliance.
• I have assisted engineering staff with construction oversight activities.
• I have limited exposure to construction oversight activities.
• I have no experience providing engineering oversight during construction.

08

Which statement best describes your proficiency using Microsoft Office applications, engineering software, cloud-based platforms, and project databases to support engineering work?

• I am highly proficient and routinely use multiple engineering software applications, Microsoft Office Suite, cloud-based platforms, and project databases to independently manage projects, analyze information, and produce technical deliverables.
• I am proficient using Microsoft Office applications, engineering software, cloud-based platforms, and project databases to perform my job responsibilities independently.
• I have working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and have used engineering software or project databases with occasional guidance.
• I have limited experience using Microsoft Office applications, engineering software, cloud-based platforms, or project databases.
• I have no experience using these applications or systems.

09

Which statement best describes your experience using electronic systems to manage engineering project information and documentation?

• I have independently managed complex engineering project records using multiple electronic databases and document management systems, including tracking, reporting, and quality assurance.
• I have independently maintained engineering project documentation and records using electronic databases or document management systems.
• I have entered, retrieved, or updated project information using electronic databases or document management systems under established procedures.
• I have limited experience using electronic project management or document management systems.
• I have no experience using electronic project management or document management systems.

10

Have you reviewed engineering plans or specifications prepared by consultants, developers, tribal agencies, or local agencies for compliance with engineering standards?

• Yes
• No

11

Do you have experience interpreting engineering plans, specifications, standards, or construction contract documents to resolve project issues?

• Yes
• No

12

Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

13

Do you have ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds?

• Yes
• No

14

| 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)

15

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