Salary : $90,096.00 - $121,176.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-01652
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 11/05/2026
Closing Date: 11/16/2026 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 a skilled and dependable Mainframe Technical Support System Administrator to serve as a key technical member of the Mainframe Technical Support team. This position will provide agency-wide mainframe support and serve as a backup Mainframe as a Service (MFaaS) vendor manager, supporting mainframe operating system software and subsystems through configuration, implementation, maintenance, troubleshooting, problem resolution, and performance monitoring. The position will also play a key technical role in the annual Mainframe Disaster Recovery exercise and supports the continued availability and performance of WSDOT's enterprise mainframe environment.
What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Mainframe Technical Support will:
- Assist team lead with technical support on the mainframe platform.
- Review and understand the impact that new zOS releases will have on existing systems and applications and assist with upgrade coordination with MFaaS vendor.
- Serve as WSDOT team support role on projects that integrate new mainframe hardware and/or software technologies.
- Provide agency level support for Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Disaster Recovery (DR) planning.
- Provide basic support and technical knowledge, consultation, and administration for mainframe security configurations.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot mainframe operational problems within established process and procedures.
- Examine existing support contracts to ensure they meet the organization's needs and compliance requirements.
- Monitor contract expiration dates and coordinate timely renewals; ensure seamless transitions without disruption of services.
- Review and maintain daily and monthly mainframe reporting; resolve security and user discrepancies identified by reports.
- Occasionally respond to critical mainframe outages.
- Serve as a backup on-call technician when the team lead is not available to be on stand-by status and provide after-hours support.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- z/OS Mainframe Systems: Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to administer IBM z/OS mainframe systems, including installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and performance optimization, with end-to-end technical ownership of the z/OS environment.
- Mainframe Security & Access Management: Demonstrated experience managing user access, resource protection, and compliance auditing in a z/OS environment using RACF or ACF2, including conducting security audits and generating and analyzing SMF reports to identify vulnerabilities.
- Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery: Demonstrated proficiency in and ability to support the full lifecycle of business continuity and IT disaster recovery, including conducting business impact analyses, planning and executing recovery exercises, and maintaining compliance with resilience standards.
- Personal Computer & Software Applications: Demonstrated advanced proficiency using personal computers (PC) and standard PC software applications.
- Communication: Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse vendors, customers, peers, and management, including condensing and presenting technical information.
- Technical Information: Demonstrated ability to retrieve, understand, interpret, and apply highly technical information from electronic and printed materials.
- Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to quickly identify, analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve technical problems.
- Multitasking & Prioritization: Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and changing priorities.
- Project Management: Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and manage large technical projects.
- Continuous Learning: Demonstrated ability to stay current with emerging technologies, tools, and industry practices.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:
- Extensive IT Knowledge: Proficient experience, knowledge and understanding of information technology concepts, practices, and technologies.
- Database Concepts: Basic knowledge and understanding of database concepts.
- Job Control Language: Demonstrated experience using Job Control Language (JCL) in an IBM mainframe environment.
- Scripting & Programming: Demonstrated experience with scripting or programming languages to support technical and mainframe environments.
Important Notes - This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position requires the ability to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to critical mainframe
- outages. This position is a backup on-call technician when the team lead is not available to be on stand-by status and provide after-hours support.
- 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 offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. The need for in person work is infrequent, up to four times per month.
- 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. 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.
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; 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-HQ-01652 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
Please briefly describe your most recent IT System Administrator role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
02
z/OS Mainframe Systems: Please select the option that best describes your experience administering IBM z/OS mainframe systems.
- Advanced: I have independently provided end-to-end technical ownership of z/OS environments, including installation, configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, and performance optimization.
- Intermediate: I have independently administered and supported z/OS environments, including configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and performance monitoring.
- Basic: I have supported z/OS systems under the direction of experienced staff and have performed routine administration, maintenance, or troubleshooting activities.
- Limited: I have worked with or been exposed to z/OS systems but have limited hands-on administration experience.
- None: I do not have experience working with IBM z/OS mainframe systems.
03
Please describe your experience administering IBM z/OS systems, including the types of environments you have supported. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
04
Mainframe Security & Access Management: Please select the option that best describes your experience managing security and access controls in a z/OS environment using RACF or ACF2.
- Advanced: I have independently administered RACF or ACF2, managed user access and resource protection, conducted comprehensive security audits, and generated and analyzed SMF reports to identify vulnerabilities or compliance issues.
- Intermediate: I have administered RACF or ACF2, including managing user access, resource protection, security auditing, and reviewing security-related reports.
- Basic: I have performed routine RACF or ACF2 security and access management activities under established procedures or direction.
- Limited: I have worked with or been exposed to RACF or ACF2 but have limited hands-on experience.
- None: I do not have experience using RACF or ACF2.
05
Please describe your experience using RACF or ACF2 to manage access, protect resources, conduct security audits, or analyze SMF data. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
06
Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery: Please select the option that best describes your experience supporting business continuity and IT disaster recovery.
- Advanced: I have independently managed or led the full disaster recovery lifecycle, including business impact analysis, recovery planning, recovery exercises, evaluation of results, and maintaining compliance with resilience standards.
- Intermediate: I have participated in multiple phases of disaster recovery, including planning, business impact analysis, recovery exercises, testing, and documentation.
- Basic: I have participated in disaster recovery exercises, testing, planning, or related support activities.
- Limited: I have knowledge of disaster recovery concepts but limited hands-on experience.
- None: I do not have experience with business continuity or IT disaster recovery.
07
Please describe your experience supporting business continuity or disaster recovery activities, including your role in planning. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08
Information Technology: Please select the option that best describes your knowledge and experience with information technology concepts, practices, and technologies.
- Advanced: I have broad technical knowledge across multiple areas of information technology and independently apply that knowledge to analyze systems, develop solutions, troubleshoot problems, and support IT operations.
- Intermediate: I have working knowledge of multiple information technology concepts and technologies and apply that knowledge in my day-to-day work.
- Basic: I have foundational knowledge of information technology concepts and practices.
- Limited: I have limited exposure to information technology concepts and technologies.
- None: I do not have professional experience with information technology.
09
Database Concepts: Do you have experience working with databases or applying database concepts in a technical environment?If Yes, please describe your experience, including the types of databases, database functions, or database-related tasks you have performed. If no, please enter N/A.
10
Job Control Language (JCL): Please select the option that best describes your experience using JCL.
- Advanced: I independently develop, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain complex JCL used to support IBM mainframe processing and production workloads.
- Intermediate: I independently develop or modify JCL and troubleshoot routine JCL or job-processing issues.
- Basic: I have modified or executed existing JCL and have a working understanding of JCL syntax and job processing.
- Limited: I have been exposed to JCL but have limited hands-on experience.
- None: I have no experience using JCL.
11
Scripting & Programming: Please select the option that best describes your experience with scripting or programming.
- Advanced: I independently develop, maintain, and troubleshoot scripts or programs used to automate processes, support systems, or resolve technical problems.
- Intermediate: I regularly modify, maintain, or troubleshoot existing scripts or programs and develop solutions for routine technical needs.
- Basic: I have written or modified basic scripts or programs to support technical tasks or automation.
- Limited: I have limited exposure to scripting or programming.
- None: I do not have experience with scripting or programming.
12
Please describe your scripting or programming experience, including the languages or tools you have used. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
13
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
14
If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
15
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)
16
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
