Highway Maintenance Worker 3
Job details
- Location
- Stevenson or Skamania County or Washington
- Work type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $61,644 - $75,108/yr
- Posted
- yesterday
- Apply on
- governmentjobs.com
About this role
About the Department
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 to support the safe and efficient operation of the state highway system within the Southwest Region. Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Supervisor, this position performs skilled highway maintenance work, operates a variety of heavy equipment and tools, and helps maintain highways and highway structures in good working condition. Responsibilities include responding to weather events, emergencies, construction impacts, and other operational needs to help ensure the safe movement of people and commerce throughout the region. This position also provides leadership and guidance to lower-level maintenance workers and may occasionally supervise a crew in the absence of a supervisor. The successful candidate will play a key role in fostering a respectful, safety-focused, and collaborative work environment.
What to Expect
Typical work hours are four 10-hour shifts per week. This position requires the ability to report to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours emergency call-out and may require working alternate shifts, weekends, holidays, standby assignments, and extended hours based on operational needs. The incumbent must be available to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, independently or as part of a team, at any time of day or night. Occasional night work and call-back assignments may be required.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 3 will:
- Lead and coordinate highway maintenance crews in the daily performance of maintenance and operations activities throughout State Highways.
- Plan, schedule, document, and track maintenance activities, equipment usage, inventory, and project costs using computerized systems and maintenance records.
- Train and support maintenance personnel in equipment operation, safety practices, highway maintenance procedures, and public relations.
- Perform roadway maintenance and repair activities including pavement repair, drainage maintenance, vegetation management, sign and guardrail repair, erosion control, and litter and debris removal.
- Operate and maintain a variety of highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles to support roadway operations and emergency response activities.
- Lead and perform snow and ice operations, including applying anti-icing materials, hauling maintenance materials, and maintaining stockpile sites.
- Design, set up, and perform traffic control operations for roadway maintenance, emergency response, lane closures, detours, and full road or bridge closures in accordance with departmental and MUTCD standards.
- Respond to emergency situations and support maintenance facility upkeep, equipment maintenance, unlawful dwelling cleanup efforts, and other assigned maintenance and operations activities.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Highway Maintenance: Practical knowledge of highway maintenance practices, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal. Ability to assess maintenance needs and perform repairs to highway structures, roadside features, and landscapes.
- Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating and maintaining a variety of Class A, B, and C highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles in accordance with WSDOT standards. Demonstrated ability to safely transport heavy equipment and materials between job sites.
- Traffic Control & Work Zone: Working knowledge of traffic control practices following the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Ability to plan and implement safe work zones, including flagging, signage, and the use of cones/barrels. The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.
- Safety Awareness & Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling. Ability to participate in the creation and implementation of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and attend regular safety training.
- Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Skilled in the use of electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, and cost estimating (e.g., HATS, WZDB, TSMS). Proficient in standard computer applications including Microsoft Office and email communication.
- Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of leading a crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Supervisor, demonstrating sound decision-making and leadership skills.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
In addition to the above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
- Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with N endorsement.
- Ability to obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Ability to transport, move, and manipulate various types of equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.
- Ability to respond to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours callout.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work at elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Snow and Ice Control Operations: Skills and experience performing snow removal and anti-icing operations, including safe and efficient operation of plow trucks and application of de-icing materials to maintain safe driving conditions during storms.
In addition to the above, the following are also preferred:
- Knowledge of the surrounding area.
- High school graduation or GED
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 2% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2026.
- Work is performed primarily outdoors and frequently adjacent to live traffic in a variety of weather conditions. Duties may require working at heights over 25 feet above land or water, assisting in confined spaces, traversing rough or steep terrain, and performing work at or near ground level. The position involves exposure to roadway hazards, construction environments, chemicals and materials such as herbicides, fuels, solvents, oils, lubricants, paints, cleaners, and hot asphalt, as well as potential exposure to biohazards and discarded sharps. Responsibilities include relocating tools, equipment, and materials weighing up to 50 pounds and performing both stationary and mobile traffic control operations.
- This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
- 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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 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 www.uscis.gov.
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.
- 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 State Benefits for more information.
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum 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 www.uscis.gov.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at [email protected]. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-41619 in the subject line.
Benefits
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
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
Supplemental Questions
- Advanced – Independently performs a wide range of highway maintenance activities, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal. Routinely assesses maintenance needs and determines appropriate corrective actions.
- Intermediate – Performs highway maintenance activities with limited supervision and assists in identifying maintenance needs and repairs.
- Basic – Limited experience performing highway maintenance activities.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Independently operates and maintains a variety of Class A, B, and C vehicles and equipment and safely transports equipment and materials between job sites.
- Intermediate – Operates maintenance equipment and vehicles with some guidance or within a limited scope of responsibilities.
- Basic – Limited experience operating maintenance equipment or vehicles.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Independently plans and implements traffic control in accordance with MUTCD standards, including flagging operations, signage placement, and work zone setup using cones and barrels.
- Intermediate – Assists with traffic control and work zone operations and has experience performing flagging duties.
- Basic – Limited experience with traffic control or work zone operations.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Regularly uses electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, reporting, and communication.
- Intermediate – Uses electronic systems and computer applications for routine work activities.
- Basic – Limited experience using electronic systems or computer applications in a work environment.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Extensive experience operating snowplows and applying anti-icing or de-icing materials during winter storm events.
- Intermediate – Experience assisting with snow and ice control operations and operating winter maintenance equipment.
- Basic – Limited experience supporting snow and ice operations.
- None of the above
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- No
- Indeed
- 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)
Required Question
Agency Information
EmployerState of WashingtonAddress View Job Posting for Agency InformationView Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504 Website http://www.careers.wa.gov