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 seeking a motivated and detail-oriented intern to join the Engineering Geology Section within the State Geotechnical Office. This is a unique opportunity for currently enrolled students, or recent graduates who want to observe and participate in real world application of their field. This position will support statewide geotechnical design, construction support, geotechnical asset inventorying and assessment, and unstable slope inventorying and assessment through a combination of field and office work. The intern will assist with research, data collection and organization, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, field assessments, technical documentation, and reporting activities that support transportation projects across the state, including unstable slopes and fish passage work. Our top candidate will possess coursework or experience in research, GIS and mapping applications, data management, and problem-solving, and strong teamwork and communication skills. What to Expect This position, located in Tumwater, will work within the Unstable Slopes Management program, performing field and office work related to unstable slope and geotechnical asset inventory, assessment, and scoping on a statewide basis. This position will be required to perform field work outdoors, generally on or near a roadway. This work is sometimes performed in inclement weather and may occur during daytime or nighttime hours. Exposure hazards include hot, cold and windy weather; high-speed traffic; wildland fire smoke, vehicle exhaust and dust; traversing steep or uneven terrain; unstable slopes; loud noise; and construction equipment. If you enjoy traveling, working outdoors, and you're looking for professional experience to add to your resume, we encourage you to apply. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer Intern will: Research, collect and organize information from WSDOT databases, geotechnical design reports, and as-built construction documents. Compile information into organized files and prepare various maps using GIS. Participate in conducting field inventories and performing condition assessments. Document findings using handwritten notes and drawings, electronic tablets, GPS, and/or cameras and drones; enter field information into databases. Assist with statewide geotechnical design and construction-support work related to unstable slopes, fish passages, and other transportation projects. Assist members of the Engineering Geology Section with various field and analytic tasks. Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required :
Education Eligibility:
Currently enrolled with a least three years of completion or recent graduate from an undergraduate degree program in Geological Sciences, Engineering Geology or a closely related field that includes coursework in Geologic Field Mapping; or currently enrolled or recently graduated from a master's program in related field
Communication:
Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills to communicate with team members and supervisors.
Teamwork & Collaboration:
Ability to work effectively with others to achieve project goals. Attention to
Detail:
Skilled at ensuring accuracy and quality in work products.
Time Management & Organization:
Skills and ability to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks within deadlines.
Technology & Software:
Skills to apply relevant software tools to support geotechnical design reporting.
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 valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles. Ability to travel overnight and work outside in adverse conditions. It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Professional Certification:
A Washington State Geologist-In-Training (GIT) certification.
Field Geology Methods:
Strong background in field geology methods, including field observations, data collection, mapping, and documentation techniques.
GIS & Mapping Applications:
Proficiency using GIS and mapping applications to collect, analyze, and present data.
Engineering Geology Knowledge:
Coursework in engineering geology, and/or engineering. Important Notes This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. This is a non-permanent intern position, expected to last up 3
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. This position is not eligible for remote work. 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 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 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. Two letters of recommendation are also strongly encouraged but not required to be considered. Letters of recommendation should be from individuals who can attest to your work ethic, technical skills, and job-related competencies. 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 Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.
Giese@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05589i in the subject line.