Transportation Engineer 4
Job details
- Location
- Wenatchee, Washington
- Work type
- Onsite
- Compensation
- $88,788 - $119,460/yr
- Posted
- 3 weeks ago
- 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 Transportation Engineer 4 to serve as the Region Signal and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Operations Engineer in the North Central Region. This position serves as the region’s technical expert in signal and ITS operations, responsible for developing, reviewing, and optimizing traffic signal timing plans to support safe and efficient traffic flow. The successful candidate will coordinate with maintenance, traffic management, information technology, and engineering teams to support system operations, maintenance, and the implementation of innovative transportation technologies. This role also provides specialized engineering expertise in signal and ITS design, project scoping, and plan reviews while advancing Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) strategies and practical solutions. Through independent engineering judgment and technical leadership, this position plays a critical role in improving roadway safety, traffic efficiency, and the long-term reliability of the region’s transportation infrastructure.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 4 will:
- Design, develop, review, and implement traffic signal timing plans, coordination strategies, adaptive signal operations, and special event plans to optimize traffic flow throughout the North Central Region.
- Evaluate and approve traffic signal timing plans, establish operational and technical strategies, and resolve complex traffic signal engineering issues to ensure safe and efficient operations.
- Review traffic signal designs prepared by WSDOT design offices, engineering consultants, and local agencies to ensure compliance with WSDOT and regional design and operational standards.
- Coordinate with Traffic, Signal Maintenance, local agencies, consultants, and other stakeholders to support signal operations, project implementation, special events, and multi-jurisdictional traffic signal efficiency.
- Monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), including equipment, software, firmware, and network compatibility, while coordinating timely maintenance and repairs with appropriate work groups.
- Develop and implement Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) strategies, collaborating with regional teams to integrate innovative technologies and operational improvements into transportation projects and initiatives.
- Support Traffic Management Center (TMC) operations by monitoring system performance, identifying equipment deficiencies, assessing traffic impacts from incidents and events, and implementing technical adjustments to restore safe and efficient traffic flow.
- Provide specialized technical expertise in signal, ITS, and network systems to support project planning, design, scoping, construction, and inspections, while assisting with staff training, system testing, and emergency response to traffic system malfunctions.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Traffic Engineering Knowledge: Must have extensive knowledge of traffic engineering principles, traffic signal operations, timing, and coordination.
- Traffic Signal and ITS Experience: Must have demonstrated practical experience in the engineering design and development, implementation, and/or maintenance of Traffic Signal and Intelligent Transportation Systems.
- Network and Internet Protocols: Must have demonstrated proficiency in Internet protocols and networking principles.
- Project Coordination: Must have demonstrated ability to coordinate projects and maintenance activities with technical staff and managers.
- Communication and Collaboration: Must have the ability to explain technical information clearly and work effectively with staff, leadership, and external partners to build understanding and support shared solutions.
- Standards and Regulatory Compliance: Experience learning and applying standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation traffic engineering and IT technology projects.
- Strategic Planning and Decision-Making: Ability to set direction, prioritize work, and make sound, timely decisions to ensure technology efforts align with program and agency goals.
- Plan and Specification Interpretation: Experience reading and interpreting plans and general specifications.
- Network Systems Management: Demonstrated ability to manage and improve essential network-based systems to ensure reliability, security, and continuous delivery of mission-critical traffic services.
- 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 ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Signal Timing Software: Experience using signal timing programs, such as Synchro or similar software, for signal timing and analysis.
- Signal Operations Software: Experience using signal operations programs, such as Transparity, Kinetic, or similar software, for traffic signal operations.
- ITS Network Troubleshooting: Experience troubleshooting Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) communication networks.
- Signal Controller Programming: Experience modifying and updating signal controller software, firmware, phasing, inputs, outputs, and timing plans.
- Signal and ITS Equipment: Experience working with traffic signal and ITS controllers and cabinets.
- Signal Cabinet Systems Knowledge: Knowledge of traffic signal cabinet components, layouts, inputs, outputs, and functions.
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 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-NCR-24767 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 applies advanced traffic engineering principles to analyze, develop, implement, and optimize traffic signal timing and coordination plans, evaluate operational performance, and resolve complex traffic signal issues.
- Intermediate – Applies traffic engineering principles to support traffic signal operations, timing adjustments, coordination, and operational analysis with limited supervision.
- Basic – Has foundational knowledge or limited experience applying traffic engineering principles to traffic signal operations, timing, or coordination.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Independently leads or performs complex traffic signal or ITS engineering activities, including system design, development, implementation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and interpretation of engineering plans, specifications, and applicable standards.
- Intermediate – Performs traffic signal or ITS engineering activities, including design support, installation, implementation, maintenance, or troubleshooting, with limited supervision.
- Basic – Has limited experience supporting traffic signal or ITS design, installation, maintenance, or related engineering activities.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Independently manages, maintains, and troubleshoots complex network-based systems, applying internet protocols, network architecture, security practices, and system performance monitoring to ensure reliability and continuity of operations.
- Intermediate – Applies networking principles and internet protocols to configure, maintain, monitor, or troubleshoot network-based systems with limited supervision.
- Basic – Has foundational knowledge or limited experience with internet protocols, networking principles, or network-based system maintenance.
- None of the above
- Advanced – Independently leads and coordinates complex engineering or technology projects, establishes priorities, aligns resources with organizational objectives, directs technical activities, and makes decisions to ensure successful project delivery and ongoing system operations.
- Intermediate – Coordinates engineering or technology projects, collaborates with technical staff and managers, manages competing priorities, and supports project planning and implementation.
- Basic – Has limited experience supporting technical project coordination, scheduling, or prioritizing work activities.
- None of the above
- 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