Soils Lab Technician (TT3) In-Training | Multiple Positions

Soils Lab Technician (TT3) In-Training | Multiple Positions  Salary $47,100.00

• $87,048.00 Annually Location Thurston County
• Tumwater, WA Job Type Full Time
• Permanent Job Number 26DOT-HQ-04956m Department Dept.

of Transportation Division Headquarters Opening Date 04/07/2026 Closing Date 4/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Description 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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation! The Opportunity WSDOT is seeking to fill multiple Transportation Technician positions within the Structural Materials Section's Soils Laboratory. Serving as the Soil Lab Technicians, you will support the evaluation of materials used in highway construction projects under the supervision of the Soils Laboratory Supervisor (TE3). These roles will be responsible for performing complex testing of soils, rock, and geotextiles to determine material quality and acceptability, and preparing, analyzing, reducing, and accurately recording test data. In addition, the positions will assist with maintaining laboratory equipment, including calibration, routine maintenance, and associated documentation. Our top candidates will demonstrate technical proficiency in materials testing, attention to detail in data management, the ability to follow standardized procedures and quality assurance protocols, and strong organizational and problem-solving skills. What to Expect These positions perform materials testing duties in a laboratory environment, which may include exposure to chemicals, elevated temperatures, working with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, and working with various chemicals. These positions also require cross training and qualification in other laboratories that are part of the Construction Materials Division to assist as needed within the State Materials Laboratory. Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Soils Lab Technicians will: Perform complex engineering soils, rock, and geotextiles testing with published procedures and standards. Maintain, adjust, and verify laboratory testing equipment. Read, comprehend, and follow all standard operating and testing procedures and pre-activity safety plans. Operate office, laboratory and field equipment which includes computers, telephones, cell phones, forklift, soil and rock testing equipment. Provide training and support to Project Office laboratory staff. Maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures. Maintain, verify and calibrate equipment as defined in the Quality Systems Manual and as per the manufacturer's instructions. Assist with organization and cleanup of sample storage containers and sample prep area. Qualifications These are Transportation Technician 3 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. To be considered for these opportunities, the following competencies are required:

Technical Engineering Support:

Demonstrated proficiency performing semi-skilled technical engineering work, including data collection, field inspections, materials testing, and drafting. Ability to apply engineering concepts, methods, and standards to support transportation projects, while utilizing engineering tools, software, and equipment to complete assignments accurately and efficiently.

Materials Testing & Laboratory Operations:

Knowledge of engineering principles, methods, and practices with a strong understanding of material testing procedures. Ability to read, understand, and operate a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment, ensuring accurate data collection, analysis, and documentation.

Plan Review & Quality Assurance:

Experience reviewing engineering plans and specifications to ensure compliance with established standards, supporting quality assurance and project integrity.

Safety & Compliance:

Knowledge of safety practices, construction procedures, and applicable codes and standards. Demonstrated commitment to adhering to safety policies and performing work in a safe and compliant manner.

Analytical Problem-Solving:

Proven ability to examine complex project elements, develop, and propose alternative solutions. Skill in selecting and adapting appropriate techniques to address transportation-related challenges, particularly in soils, rock, and geotextile testing.

Communication:

Ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences, both orally and in writing, to convey technical information clearly and support coordination across teams.

Workload Management & Independence:

Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple assignments with competing deadlines while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

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: Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to work with materials exceeding 325 degrees F and to work with a variety of chemicals in the laboratory setting. Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances and work for periods of time which exceed normal shifts. Ability to wear appropriate personal protection equipment and adequate clothing for specific work activity. Ability to maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures. Ability to perform mathematical calculations. It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: Certification as an Engineer-in-Training. Important Notes This recruitment will be used to fill up to three (3) vacancies and may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. These positions are 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. These are Transportation Technician 3 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the positions at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are: Transportation Technician 3: $64,776

• $87,048 Transportation Technician 2: $55,836
• $75,108 Transportation Technician 1: $47,100
• $63,252 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, 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. 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 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.

NOTE:

This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment. Please click the "" 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 Robyn.

Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-04956m in the subject line. Employer State of Washington Address View Job Posting for