Traffic Design Lead

Title: Traffic Design Lead (TE3)

Location:  Chelan County – Wenatchee, WA

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid

Job 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 currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 3 to lead the Traffic Office design team in project delivery for illumination systems, signal systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), permanent signing, and traffic control plans to support agency contracts. Project delivery includes developing plans, specifications, and estimates, managing schedules, and documentation. This position supports traffic operations such as preparing and reviewing signal timing plans and providing responses to internal and external constituents. The employee is expected to consider personal, co-worker, and public safety as the first and foremost objective during the planning and performance of all activities in connection with work assignments.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Traffic Design Lead (TE3) will:

• Develop and review contract plans, specifications, estimates, schedules, and design documentation.
• Manage multiple project schedules concurrently.
• Coordinate with various project managers for all design aspects and timelines. 
• Utilize computer software to design and/or review plans, lighting analysis, specifications, estimates and schedules.
• Perform field visits to review and collect data for existing systems during the construction phase.
• Review and provide feedback for electrical designs and plans.
• Analyze and review signal timing plans; assist in preparing signal timing plans; field review signal operations as needed.

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Design and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated ability to develop, review, and document complete contract plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E) for signal, illumination, signing, and ITS projects. Skilled in applying engineering principles, performing design reviews, conducting field visits, and ensuring accuracy, constructability, and compliance with standards.
• Project and Schedule Management: Ability to develop, maintain, and manage multiple project schedules concurrently while coordinating with project managers and multidisciplinary teams. Demonstrated skill in prioritizing workload, delegating tasks, reviewing work, and providing actionable feedback to ensure high-quality and timely project delivery.
• Software and Technical Tools Proficiency: Competent in the use of civil engineering design tools such as CADD and other engineering software, with the ability to learn and apply new software quickly. Ability to use or become proficient within one year in signal and illumination modeling software and tools for lighting analysis, signal operations, and ITS design.
• Communication, Collaboration, and Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to communicate clearly and professionally-both verbally and in writing-with internal teams, project managers, external customers, and State and Local Officials. Demonstrated experience building positive working relationships, supporting a respectful and inclusive work environment, and collaborating effectively as part of a diverse team.
• Leadership, Mentorship, and Professional Growth: Proven ability to lead design teams, mentor and train team members, support knowledge growth, and contribute to a culture of respect and equal opportunity. Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning, adaptability, and taking initiative to meet the needs of others through strong partnerships and teamwork.
• 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.  
• Ability to complete field work duties while working next to high-speed traffic and traversing uneven terrain

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Advanced Engineering Knowledge and Technical Expertise: Demonstrated advanced knowledge of civil engineering principles and practices, supported by formal education (Bachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering or related field) and professional credentials such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE). Skilled in applying engineering guidelines to traffic operations and design issues, including accident analysis, signal warrant analysis, traffic counts, directional volumes, and trip assignments. Experience working with the National Electrical Code and in designing, inspecting, or installing electrical systems-preferably in a highway environment.
• Specialized Design, Modeling, and Construction Skills: Proficient in using specialized engineering software and tools, including production-level experience with MicroStation OpenRoads for plan sheet development in accordance with drafting standards. Demonstrated experience in construction inspection and documentation, signal operations, and the practical application of design standards to develop accurate and constructible plans for transportation and electrical infrastructure.

Important Notes 

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Required to travel to conduct field reviews and attend meetings and/or training. Occasional overnight stays, up to a week at a time.
• 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. 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 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.

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. 

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 alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-NCR-20115 in the subject line.