Job Details

Salary : $87,048.00 - $117,120.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-00777
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 01/05/2026
Closing Date: 1/18/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a Professional Engineer to serve as the Pavement Research Engineer (TE4) in Tumwater, Washington. This position provides technical expertise in pavement design and pavement construction in support of WSDOT's statewide construction program. In this role, the Pavement Research Engineer serves as a subject matter expert supporting the development, evaluation, and implementation of pavement design and construction practices. The position also supports pavement research activities and the implementation of new pavement technologies to improve pavement performance, safety, and long-term asset management across the state transportation system.
This position offers an opportunity to contribute professional engineering expertise to the advancement of pavement design and construction practices that support WSDOT's mission to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation systems for Washington State.
What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Pavement Research Engineer will:

• Coordinate State Pavement Office research program.
• Plan, develop, provide insight and direction, analyze, and write reports of statewide experimental pavement procedures to determine benefits, cause and effectiveness, performance, and life cycle costs.
• Direct, coordinate, and perform nonstandard data collection and testing for pavement related research conducted in partnership with FHWA, Universities, Consultants, and the State Pavement Office.
• Maintain information and databases for in-house research projects, Experimental Features Projects, Specialty Item Projects, in addition to bituminous and concrete paving projects statewide.
• Oversee the Pavement Type Selection process.
• Provide expert technical assistance to internal and external customers regarding pavement design.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Professional Engineer: Licensed as a Professional Engineer in the state of Washington or licensed as a PE in another state with the ability to obtain licensure in Washington State within six (6) months of hire.
• Civil Engineering Expertise: Extensive experience applying pavement engineering principles, including pavement design, preservation, rehabilitation, and construction practices. Proficient in preparing pavement design reports, performing life cycle cost analysis, and reviewing plans, specifications, and estimated (PS&E) for complex highway and transportation infrastructure projects. Ability to observe and interpret pavement condition in the field and from images on a computer.
• Technical Oversight & Data Governance: Proven competence in coordinating, performing, and overseeing nonstandard pavement testing and data collection activities, ensuring methodological consistency, accuracy, and relevance to research objectives. Ability to maintain, organize, and quality-control research databases, to support evidence-based decision making. Skill in collecting, interpreting, and synthesizing technical data from diverse sources and producing clear, actionable written reports that inform statewide pavement policy and practice. Ability to independently operate WSDOT's test equipment on construction sites as needed.
• Project Management & Scheduling: Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and deliver multiple projects on time and within budget. Skilled in developing work plans, coordinating team efforts, and managing schedules.
• Effective Communication & Collaboration: Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills to engage internal teams, universities, and stakeholders. Capable of representing the agency in meetings at both the state and national level. Ability to travel statewide and nationwide for up to 5 consecutive days approximately 3 times a year.
• 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 have:

• Advanced Engineering Analysis & Research: Demonstrated ability to plan and conduct advanced civil engineering analysis and research, including developing research questions, applying appropriate methodologies, interpreting results, and translating findings into practical engineering solutions. This may include experience serving as a principal researcher or completing a thesis-level project that required a high level of technical rigor, analysis, and independent judgment.
• Technical Writing & Communication: Demonstrated ability to produce clear, well-organized technical documentation, such as research reports, design memoranda, or technical guidance, that effectively communicates complex engineering concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Application of Civil Engineering Principles: Demonstrated ability to apply advanced civil engineering principles to pavement design, construction, or materials-related engineering challenges, using sound engineering judgment to support decision-making and implementation.
• Design & Construction Practices: Demonstrated knowledge of, or experience applying, WSDOT design standards, construction practices, and specifications in a transportation or public-sector engineering environment.
• Engineering Software & Analytical Tools: Demonstrated skill in using engineering and cost-analysis software to support pavement design, construction planning, or lifecycle cost analysis, such as RealCost, PerRoad, CA4PRS, or comparable tools.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
• 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.
• 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 .

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• 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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
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 of 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Pavement Research Engineer #00777 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 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 (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 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

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

Which option best describes your experience applying pavement engineering principles in a transportation or civil engineering environment?

• I have extensive experience independently leading pavement design, preservation, rehabilitation, and construction efforts for complex transportation projects. This includes preparing pavement design reports, performing life-cycle cost analyses, reviewing PS&E packages, and evaluating pavement condition in the field and through digital imagery or data systems.
• I have significant experience performing pavement design and analysis activities with limited supervision, including contributing to design documentation, conducting life-cycle cost analyses, reviewing plans and specifications, and assessing pavement condition.
• I have working-level experience supporting pavement design or construction activities under close supervision, such as assisting with evaluations, data collection, or plan reviews.
• I have limited exposure to pavement engineering concepts through coursework, internships, or entry-level experience.
• I have no direct experience applying pavement engineering principles.

02

Which option best describes your experience with pavement testing, technical data management, and research support?

• Extensive experience independently coordinating, performing, and overseeing nonstandard pavement testing and data collection activities; ensuring data quality and methodological consistency; managing and quality-controlling research databases; synthesizing technical data from multiple sources; and producing written reports that inform statewide engineering practice or policy. Includes independent operation of pavement testing equipment on construction sites.
• Significant experience performing pavement testing and data collection, organizing and maintaining technical datasets, assisting with data quality reviews, and contributing to technical reports with minimal supervision.
• Working-level experience assisting with testing, data entry, or basic analysis activities under close supervision.
• Limited exposure to technical data collection or research activities through coursework or entry-level roles.
• No experience with pavement testing or technical data management.

03

Which option best describes your experience planning and delivering projects?

• Extensive experience leading multiple engineering or research projects simultaneously, including developing work plans, managing schedules and resources, coordinating team efforts, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Significant experience managing project tasks or phases, developing schedules, and coordinating with team members or partners under limited supervision.
• Working-level experience supporting project planning, scheduling, or coordination activities under close supervision.
• Limited exposure to project management concepts through coursework or entry-level roles.
• No experience with project planning or scheduling.

04

Which option best describes your experience communicating and collaborating with stakeholders?

• Extensive experience communicating complex technical information, collaborating with internal teams, universities, and external stakeholders, and representing an organization in meetings at the state and national level. Able to travel statewide and nationwide for up to five consecutive days approximately three times per year.
• Significant experience communicating technical information and collaborating with internal teams and external partners, including participation in professional meetings or conferences.
• Working-level experience communicating technical information within a team or project environment under guidance.
• Limited professional communication experience beyond coursework or entry-level roles.
• No professional experience communicating technical information.

05

Do you have a Professional Engineer (PE) License within the state of Washington?

• Yes
• No
• No, but I have the ability to obtain this within 6 months of hire.

06

If you do have a current Civil Engineering PE license within the state of Washington, please provide the license number in the space provided. If you do not have this, please provide a description of ability to obtain active registration as a Civil Engineer in the state of Washington within six (6) months of the date of hire.
07

Do you have experience using engineering and cost-analysis software to support pavement design, construction planning, or lifecycle cost analysis, such as RealCost, PerRoad, CA4PRS, or comparable tools?

• Yes
• No

08

Please briefly describe your experience using engineering and cost-analysis software to support pavement design, construction planning, or lifecycle cost analysis, such as RealCost, PerRoad, CA4PRS, or comparable tools. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
09

Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?

• Yes
• No

10

Are you willing and able to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds?

• Yes
• No

11

Are you willing and able to traverse uneven and steep terrain adjacent to traffic and heavy equipment in adverse weather conditions?

• Yes
• No

12

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)

13

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question