Salary : $102,996.00 - $138,552.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-00209
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 08/04/2026
Closing Date: 8/18/2026 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 detail-oriented Bridge Engineer 5 to support the successful delivery of transportation improvement projects across Washington State. In this role, you will develop complete Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) packages for a wide range of bridge and transportation structure projects, including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, rehabilitation, movable and floating bridges, and other complex infrastructure. Responsibilities include preparing project-specific specifications, construction cost estimates, and working day schedules, participating in constructability and value engineering reviews, and collaborating with project teams to ensure contract documents are accurate, comprehensive, and ready for advertisement. By providing high-quality PS&E packages, this position directly supports WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options that strengthen communities and support Washington's economy.
What to ExpectAmong the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Specifications and Estimates Engineer will:
- Assemble all applicable general special provisions, write pertinent project specific special provisions, and prepare cost and working days estimates for all types of transportation structures.
- Review all available data including final design plans, geotechnical report, job file, electrical and mechanical rehabilitation inspection reports, special provision checklist, and quantity calculations.
- Research and write project specific special provisions for new and unique items of work.
- Develop cost estimates by determining unit prices for bid items and review the cost estimates for electrical and mechanical rehabilitation work.
- Develop construction working days schedules by analyzing the number of work items, the quantity of work in each work item, and the order of work.
- Assemble the complete specifications, cost estimate and bid items and furnish plans for distribution to the Region and others.
- Review the civil and bridge contract plans, specifications, and estimate for all assigned projects.
- Coordinate the resolution of review comments pertaining to Bridge PS&E.
- Attend task force meetings for projects as a Bridge Office representative.
QualificationsTo be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Bridge Specifications and Contract Documents: Demonstrated expertise preparing and reviewing specifications, engineer's estimates, bid items, and construction schedules for bridge and transportation structure projects.
- Transportation Standards and Specifications: Demonstrated familiarity with the WSDOT Standard Specifications, General Special Provisions, and project-specific special provisions.
- Bridge Engineering Principles: Demonstrated experience applying the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Bridge Design Specifications and sound engineering judgment to bridge and transportation structure projects.
- Construction Estimating and Quantification: Demonstrated experience preparing quantities takeoff calculations, working day schedules, and construction cost estimates for transportation structure projects.
- 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 Bachelor of Science degree in civil or structural engineering.
- Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or licensed in another state and able to obtain Washington licensure through reciprocity within six (6) months of appointment.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:
- Complex Bridge Project Delivery: Experience supporting delivery of complex bridge projects such as movable, floating, curved, rehabilitation, or Design-Build structures.
- Project Risk and Value Analysis: Experience participating in Value Engineering (VE), Cost Estimate Validation Process (CEVP), Cost Risk Assessment (CRA), or similar project risk reviews.
- Bridge Inspection and Construction Support: Experience performing bridge inspections or supporting bridge construction.
- Bridge Design Standards and Practices: Familiarity with the WSDOT Bridge Design Manual, Bridge Design Office policies, and bridge construction practices.
- Engineering Software and Technical Documentation: Demonstrated proficiency using engineering and business software to prepare specifications, estimates, technical documentation, and project coordination materials including Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, Adobe Acrobat or similar applications.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.Important Notes - This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- 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.
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; 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-00209 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 hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license?
02
If you indicate you have a Professional Engineer license in the question above, please identify the state in which you are licensed and your license number. If you do not have this license, please enter N/A.
03
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
04
If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
05
Please briefly describe your most recent bridge or construction engineering role and responsibilities. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
06
Bridge Specifications and Contract Documents: Select the best option that describes your experience preparing and reviewing specifications, engineer's estimates, bid items, and construction schedules for bridge or transportation structure projects.
- I have independently prepared and reviewed complete specifications, engineer's estimates, bid items, and construction schedules for a variety of bridge or transportation structure projects.
- I have prepared or reviewed several of these components for bridge or transportation structure projects with minimal guidance.
- I have assisted with preparing or reviewing specifications, estimates, bid items, or construction schedules under the guidance of others.
- I have no experience preparing or reviewing these documents.
07
Please briefly describe your experience preparing and reviewing specifications, including the types of bridge or transportation structure projects you supported. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08
Transportation Standards and Specifications: Select the best option that best describes your experience applying the WSDOT Standard Specifications, General Special Provisions, and project-specific special provisions.
- I have independently applied and developed project-specific special provisions using the WSDOT Standard Specifications and General Special Provisions for multiple transportation projects.
- I have regularly applied the WSDOT Standard Specifications and General Special Provisions and have contributed to developing project-specific special provisions.
- I have limited experience using the WSDOT Standard Specifications or General Special Provisions while supporting transportation projects.
- I have no experience using these specifications or provisions.
09
Bridge Engineering Principles: Select the best option that best describes your experience applying AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and engineering judgment to bridge or transportation structure projects.
- I have independently applied AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and engineering judgment to complex bridge or transportation structure projects.
- I have regularly applied AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications to bridge projects with occasional guidance.
- I have limited experience applying AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications while supporting bridge projects.
- I have no experience applying AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications.
10
Please briefly describe how you have applied AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and engineering judgment in your work. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
11
Construction Estimating and Quantification: Select the best option that best describes your experience preparing quantity takeoffs, working day schedules, and construction cost estimates for transportation structure projects.
- I have independently prepared quantity takeoffs, working day schedules, and construction cost estimates for transportation structure projects.
- I have regularly prepared two or more of these items as part of transportation structure projects.
- I have assisted with preparing quantity takeoffs, working day schedules, or cost estimates.
- I have no experience preparing these project documents.
12
Complex Bridge Project Delivery: Select the best option that best describes your experience supporting complex bridge projects.
- I have supported multiple complex bridge projects involving movable, floating, curved, rehabilitation, Design-Build, or similarly complex transportation structures.
- I have supported at least one complex bridge project involving one or more of these structure types or delivery methods.
- I have supported bridge projects but not complex bridge projects of this nature.
- I have no experience supporting bridge projects.
13
Project Risk and Value Analysis: Have you participated in Value Engineering (VE), Cost Estimate Validation Process (CEVP), Cost Risk Assessment (CRA), or similar project risk review processes? If yes, briefly describe your role and the types of projects involved. If no, please enter N/A.
14
Bridge Inspection and Construction Support: Select the best option that best describes your experience performing bridge inspections or supporting bridge construction.
- I have independently performed bridge inspections and/or provided construction support for bridge projects.
- I have regularly assisted with bridge inspections or construction support activities.
- I have limited exposure to bridge inspections or bridge construction support.
- I have no experience with bridge inspections or bridge construction support.
15
Engineering Software and Technical Documentation: Please list the engineering and business software you are proficient in using to prepare specifications, estimates, technical documentation, and project coordination materials. If none, please enter N/A.
16
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)
17
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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