Salary : $102,967.00 - $138,461.00 Annually
Location : King County - Shoreline, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-NWR-13502
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Northwest Region
Opening Date: 11/02/2026
Closing Date: 11/23/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionAbout WSDOTThe 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 OpportunityWSDOT is currently seeking a Region Survey Program Technical Engineer () to serve as the senior technical expert for the Northwest Region Survey and Right of Way (ROW) Office. The incumbent will ensure technical quality, regulatory compliance, and timely delivery of survey products, while serving as the region's licensed Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) responsible for approving and signing survey records and documents. This position directs the delivery of survey, ROW plans, and Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) programs supporting highway design, construction, maintenance, and real estate activities across Northwest Region.
What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Direct and prioritize survey and ROW requests to ensure services are delivered within established requirements and schedules.
- Provide guidance to staff in resolving complex survey and ROW issues.
- Review complex upland and aquatic boundary issues and conduct or coordinate field investigations.
- Research and evaluate survey technology, equipment, and supplies.
- Review flight requests and completed UAS deliverables and verify elevation, quantities, and other required data for accuracy and completeness.
- Mentor and train staff in boundary principles, survey equipment and software, and field data collection procedures to develop technical skills and ensure quality work.
- Oversee the preparation, review, and approval of survey records and documents using the PLS license.
- Provide technical guidance to Survey and ROW staff and regional offices.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Advanced Survey Knowledge: As a Professional Land Surveyor, must possess advanced knowledge of surveying and engineering principles, including demonstrated experience in understanding and interpreting title reports, deeds, easements, and other instruments used for the transfer of property rights.
- Survey Operations Management: Experience managing survey operations, including staff scheduling, budgets, equipment, workload, and operational resources; leading technical teams and evaluating operational effectiveness to meet business needs.
- Strategic Decision-Making and Policy Development: Experience exercising independent judgment to resolve complex problems and develop strategic and tactical plans, policies, procedures, and recommendations for Survey, ROW, and UAS programs.
- Project and Contract Management: Experience planning, managing, tracking, and controlling complex projects, including consultant agreements, scopes, schedules, budgets, deliverables, and interagency coordination.
- Customer Relations and Communication: Experience establishing and maintaining effective working relationships and communicating clearly with internal and external customers.
- UAS Systems Knowledge: Working knowledge of UAS systems, principles, practices, and tools.
- Survey Mapping and Technology: Working knowledge of survey mapping requirements, technology, equipment, and tools to support customer needs and oversee staff and consultant deliverables.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
The following qualifications are also required:
- Current Washington State PLS license or equivalent certification from another state with the ability to obtain Washington State PLS within one (1) year of hire.
- Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain in inclement weather.
- Ability to work flexible hours, such as weekends, nights, or split shifts.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- UAS Program Experience: Experience supporting or administering a UAS program, including UAS data review, quality assurance/quality control, and flight planning.
- WSDOT Survey and ROW Experience: Experience applying WSDOT Survey and ROW policies, procedures, standards, and practices.
- Statewide or Interagency Coordination: Experience representing an organization on technical committees or working groups and developing or recommending statewide policies, standards, or procedures.
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.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
- 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 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 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.
How to ApplyApplications 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 listed Recruiter.
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 ;br>
Contact UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference
26DOT-NWR-13502 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 BenefitsEmployees 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 CompensationState 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 SecurityAll 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 ForgivenessIf 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 LeaveWashington 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 LeaveLeave 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
Do you currently possess a Washington State Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) license?
- Yes, I am licensed as a Washington State PLS.
- No, but I possess equivalent certification from another state.
- No.
02
Survey KnowledgePlease select the response that best describes your professional experience applying surveying and engineering principles to the transfer of property rights.
- Extensive: I have extensive experience independently interpreting complex property records and instruments, applying advanced surveying and engineering principles, and resolving discrepancies or issues involving property rights.
- Intermediate: I have considerable experience interpreting property records and instruments and applying surveying and engineering principles to support survey and property-related decisions.
- Basic: I have some experience reviewing and interpreting property records and instruments under the guidance of a more experienced professional.
- Limited: I have limited exposure to property records and instruments but have a general understanding of their purpose.
- No Experience: I have no experience in this area.
03
Please briefly describe your experience interpreting title reports, deeds, easements, and other instruments used for the transfer of property rights. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
04
Survey Operations ManagementPlease select the response that best describes your experience managing survey operations and resources, including staff scheduling, budgets, equipment, workload, and operational priorities.
- Extensive: I have extensive experience directing survey operations, managing staff and resources, establishing priorities, monitoring budgets, and evaluating operational effectiveness to meet organizational goals.
- Intermediate: I have considerable experience managing multiple aspects of survey operations, including staff assignments, workload, equipment, and budgets.
- Basic: I have experience coordinating daily survey activities, assigning work, or monitoring resources, but have not been responsible for overall operational management.
- Limited: I have limited experience assisting with survey operations or resource coordination.
- No Experience: I have no experience in this area.
05
Please briefly describe your experience managing survey operations, leading technical teams, and evaluating operational effectiveness to meet business needs. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.
06
Strategic Decision-Making and Policy DevelopmentPlease select the response that best describes your experience developing or implementing strategic plans, policies, procedures, or recommendations for surveying, right-of-way (ROW), or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) programs.
- Extensive: I have extensive experience leading the development and implementation of strategic plans, policies, procedures, and program recommendations.
- Intermediate: I have considerable experience developing or revising policies, procedures, and operational recommendations within established program objectives.
- Basic: I have experience contributing to the development or implementation of plans, policies, or procedures under the direction of program leadership.
- Limited: I have limited experience assisting with policy or procedure implementation.
- No Experience: I have no experience in this area.
07
Project and Contract ManagementPlease select the response that best describes your experience managing complex projects and consultant agreements.
- Extensive: I have extensive experience independently managing complex projects and consultant agreements from initiation through completion, including negotiating scopes, controlling budgets, monitoring schedules, evaluating deliverables, and coordinating with multiple agencies.
- Intermediate: I have considerable experience managing several project or contract components, including monitoring budgets, schedules, deliverables, and consultant performance.
- Basic: I have experience coordinating project activities, tracking schedules, or reviewing deliverables but have not been responsible for overall project or contract management.
- Limited: I have limited experience assisting with project or contract administration.
- No experience: I have no experience in this area.
08
UAS Systems KnowledgePlease select the response that best describes your knowledge and experience with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
- Extensive: I have extensive experience overseeing UAS programs or operations, including establishing operational practices, evaluating technologies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing technical guidance.
- Intermediate: I have considerable hands-on experience planning or conducting UAS operations and applying knowledge of UAS systems, equipment, regulations, and technologies.
- Basic: I have working knowledge of UAS systems and have participated in UAS-related projects or operations.
- Limited: I have limited familiarity with UAS systems, terminology, and general applications.
- No Experience: I have no experience in this area.
09
Are you able and willing to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds?
10
Are you able and willing to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain in inclement weather?
11
Are you able and willing to work flexible hours, such as weekends, nights, or split shifts?
12
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)
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
