Salary : $72,900.00 - $119,460.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-05595m
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
Closing Date: 8/11/2026 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 seeking two skilled and motivated Transportation Engineers to serve as Engineering Geologists within the State Geotechnical Office's Engineering Geology section. These positions are first responders and technical experts that assess and mitigate unstable slopes and geologic hazards that impact Washington's transportation infrastructure. As part of the Engineering Geology section, these positions will provide expert technical guidance and support to region project offices, Materials Engineers, Maintenance, and other WSDOT partners on emergency and complex geotechnical design and construction projects across the state. The successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, proficiency in geological and geotechnical investigation methods, and experience conducting field assessments and developing comprehensive geotechnical design recommendations. Strong candidates will also bring sound engineering judgment, the ability to manage multiple projects independently, and engineering geology technical expertise.
What to ExpectThese positions require outdoor field work utilizing numerous types of scientific equipment. Field work often occurs during inclement weather, generally on or near a roadway, and can be in daytime or nighttime. Additional responsibilities include sample review in the State Materials Laboratory (Tumwater, WA), in person meetings at the HQ Materials Laboratory, and computer office work at home or in the HQ Materials Laboratory. Exposure hazards include steep or uneven terrain, unstable slopes, geohazards (rockfall, landslides, debris flows, floods, etc.), rugged outdoor environmental conditions, adverse weather conditions, high-speed traffic, exhaust, drill rigs, and construction equipment.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Engineering Geologists will:
- Develop field exploration plans, instrumentation plans, and specialized laboratory testing plans for geotechnical engineering design and construction projects.
- Lead and/or direct drill inspectors, laboratory technicians, and instrumentation technicians to ensure appropriate and correct data is obtained.
- Perform emergency responses for slope-related highway closures, conduct risk assessments, and provide short-term recommendations to Maintenance and emergency personnel.
- Perform field data collection for unstable slope stabilization projects and earthwork projects.
- Compile, organize, research, and review historical records, geologic mapping, field data and laboratory data.
- Perform various geotechnical analyses (limit-equilibrium analysis, kinematic analysis, settlement analysis, liquefaction analysis, etc.) for earthwork and slope stabilization projects (i.e., cuts, fills, landslides).
- Write memoranda and/or geotechnical reports summarizing the work conducted, data, analyses, interpretation, and make final recommendations.
- Prepare Plans, Specifications & Estimates (PS&E) level geotechnical engineering design documents.
- As a subject matter expert (SME), provide geotechnical construction support for construction projects including developing solutions to geotechnical construction problems.
- Track geotechnical design project costs and schedule.
QualificationsThese are Transportation Engineer 4 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
To be considered for this opportunity at the TE2 level, the following competencies are required:
- Core Geologic and Geotechnical Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of geologic, engineering geology, hydrogeology, and geotechnical principles, including interpretation of subsurface conditions and the application of geological sciences to design and construction activities, typically obtained through formal education.
- Regulatory and Licensing Awareness: Knowledge of state and professional standards governing geological and geotechnical practice, with the ability to meet licensure requirements as a Licensed Engineering Geologist in Washington State.
- Technical Proficiency and Field Expertise: Skilled in conducting detailed field investigations, site characterizations, and stability assessments using specialized geotechnical and geological tools, techniques, and equipment.
- Project Management and Collaboration: Proven ability to coordinate and negotiate project scopes, schedules, deliverables, and budgets with consultants, regional offices, and internal customers to meet project goals and deadlines.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to perform geotechnical analyses, such as limit equilibrium and kinematic slope stability assessments, and to develop sound design recommendations based on field data and engineering judgment.
- Communication and Reporting: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to prepare clear, detailed geotechnical reports and effectively convey technical findings to diverse audiences.
- 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:
- A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Ability to travel overnight and work outside in adverse conditions.
- Ability to pick up and drop off equipment, review samples, and attend in-person meetings at the State Materials Laboratory (Tumwater, WA) on a regular basis, and to perform computer-based office work at home or in the State Materials Laboratory (Tumwater, WA).
- Ability to perform multiple concurrent tasks and duties.
- Ability to obtain high angle rope access training/certification within 12 months and the willingness to utilize such training/certification within the In-Training period.
- Ability to obtain FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot Certificate within 12 months and the willingness to utilize licensure within the In-Training period.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:
- Field Geology Methods: Strong background in applying advanced field geology methods.
- Geotechnical Software Proficiency: Experience and proficiency using GIS, limit equilibrium analysis software, and other geotechnical modeling and data analysis programs.
- Steep Slope and Rope Access: Experience or familiarity with rope access methods and safety protocols for working on steep or unstable slopes.
- FAA Part 107 sUAS Remote Pilot Certificate.
*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.
- These positions offer flexible/hybrid remote work options, but the candidate must be able to pick up and drop off equipment at the State Materials Laboratory, review samples in the State Materials Laboratory, and attend meetings in the State Materials Laboratory on a regular basis.
- These are Transportation Engineer 4 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions at a lower level in the (Geotechnical Specialist) based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:
- Transportation Engineer 4: $88,788 - $119,460
- Transportation Engineer 3: $80,496 - $108,228
- Transportation Engineer 2: $72,900 - $98,064
- 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 ensuring that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual's 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 for more information.
Check out this video to learn more:
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. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; it 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 UsFor inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference
26DOT-HQ-05595m 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
Core Geologic and Geotechnical Knowledge: Which statement best describes your experience applying geologic and geotechnical principles to engineering projects?
- I have independently applied advanced geologic, engineering geology, and geotechnical principles to evaluate subsurface conditions and develop engineering recommendations for complex transportation or infrastructure projects.
- I have applied geologic and geotechnical principles to evaluate subsurface conditions and support engineering recommendations under general direction.
- I have assisted with geologic or geotechnical investigations and have applied these principles on routine projects.
- I have completed coursework or training in these subject areas but have little or no professional experience applying them.
- I have no education, training, or experience in these areas.
02
Please describe your most recent geologic or geotechnical roles and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03
Regulatory and Licensing Awareness: Which statement best describes your knowledge of professional licensing requirements and standards governing engineering geology in Washington State?
- I currently meet the requirements for, or hold, Washington State Licensed Engineering Geologist (LEG) licensure and have applied applicable regulations in professional practice.
- I meet the education and experience requirements for Washington State LEG licensure and plan to obtain licensure.
- I am familiar with Washington State licensing requirements and professional standards but have not yet met all eligibility requirements.
- I have limited knowledge of Washington State licensing requirements.
- I have no knowledge of Washington State licensing requirements.
04
Are you currently eligible to obtain Washington State Licensed Engineering Geologist (LEG) licensure or able to become licensed as required?
05
Technical Proficiency and Field Expertise: Which statement best describes your experience conducting geologic and geotechnical field investigations?
- I have independently planned and conducted complex field investigations, site characterizations, and stability assessments using specialized engineering geologic and geotechnical equipment and techniques.
- I have conducted field investigations and site characterizations with limited supervision.
- I have assisted with field investigations and collected field data under supervision.
- I have observed or participated in limited field investigations.
- I have no experience conducting engineering geologic or geotechnical field investigations.
06
Please describe your experience performing field investigations, including the types of sites, equipment, or techniques you have used. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07
Project Management and Collaboration: Which statement best describes your experience coordinating geotechnical or engineering projects with multiple stakeholders?
- I have independently managed project scopes, schedules, budgets, and deliverables while coordinating with consultants, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.
- I have coordinated project activities, schedules, and deliverables with multiple stakeholders under general direction.
- I have participated on project teams and assisted with project coordination.
- I have limited experience supporting geotechnical engineering or engineering geologic projects.
- I have no project coordination experience.
08
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Which statement best describes your experience performing engineering geologic/geotechnical analyses and developing engineering recommendations?
- I have independently performed complex engineering geologic/geotechnical analyses (such as limit equilibrium, kinematic, or slope stability analyses) and developed engineering design recommendations.
- I have performed engineering geologic/geotechnical analyses and contributed to engineering recommendations under general supervision.
- I have assisted with engineering geologic/geotechnical analyses or interpretation of engineering data.
- I have completed coursework or training related to engineering geologic/geotechnical analysis but have limited practical experience.
- I have no experience performing engineering geologic/geotechnical analyses.
09
Communication and Reporting: Which statement best describes your experience preparing technical reports and presenting engineering findings?
- I have independently prepared comprehensive engineering geologic/geotechnical reports and presented technical findings to engineers, management, and other stakeholders.
- I have prepared technical reports and communicated engineering findings with limited supervision.
- I have contributed sections of technical reports or presented information as part of a team.
- I have limited experience preparing technical reports.
- I have no experience preparing technical reports or presenting technical information.
10
Please describe your experience preparing engineering geologic/geotechnical reports and communicating technical information to different audiences. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
11
Do you have a valid driver's license?
12
Are you able and willing to support on-call operations or other time-sensitive work that requires overnight travel and work outside in adverse conditions?
13
Are you able to regularly report to the State Materials Laboratory in Tumwater, Washington, perform office work in person or remotely as assigned, and transport equipment or samples as needed?
14
Field Geology Methods: Which statement best describes your experience applying advanced field geology methods?
- I have extensive experience independently applying advanced field geology methods to evaluate complex geologic conditions and support engineering projects.
- I have regularly applied field geology methods on engineering or environmental projects.
- I have assisted with field geology investigations.
- I have completed coursework or training in field geology methods but have limited field experience.
- I have no experience with advanced field geology methods.
15
Steep Slope and Rope Access: Which statement best describes your experience working on steep slopes or using rope access techniques?
- I have extensive experience performing technical work on steep or unstable slopes using rope access methods while following applicable safety protocols.
- I have experience working on steep slopes and am familiar with rope access methods and safety procedures.
- I have worked on steep slopes but have not used rope access methods.
- I have completed training related to rope access or steep slope work but have limited field experience.
- I have no experience working on steep slopes or with rope access methods.
16
Geotechnical Software Proficiency: Which statement best describes your experience using geotechnical and geospatial software?
- I have extensive experience using limit equilibrium analysis software, GIS, and other geotechnical modeling or data analysis programs to support engineering decisions.
- I have regularly used one or more of these software applications on engineering projects.
- I have limited experience using geotechnical or GIS software.
- I have completed coursework or training using these software applications.
- I have no experience using geotechnical or geospatial software.
17
Please identify the geotechnical, GIS, or engineering software you have used and briefly describe how you applied it. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
18
Do you have experience operating small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) for site assessment or mapping?
19
Do you currently hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate?
20
Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.
- I have a master's degree or higher.
- I have a bachelor's degree.
- I have an associate's degree.
- I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- None of the above
21
If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
22
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)
23
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
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