Transportation Technician 3 - Washington State Ferries

Posting number: 26DOT-WSF-90012m

Department: Dept. of Transportation

Division: Washington State Ferries

Job classification: TRANSPORTATION TECHNICIAN 3

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Engineering, Transportation

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!

Washington State Ferries (WSF) is an essential part of Washington's transportation network. Every year, we carry nearly 20 million passengers across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands on more than 400 sailings a day. Our dedicated teams with over 2,100 people work together to serve our communities and shape the future of ferry travel. 

The Opportunity

WSF, a division of WSDOT, is currently seeking multiple Transportation Technician 3 positions to support the safe, reliable operation of Washington State Ferries by helping ensure ferry terminal construction projects are completed in accordance with contract requirements and established quality standards. This position plays an important role in maintaining the integrity and long-term reliability of terminal infrastructure that serves millions of passengers each year. Working collaboratively with project teams and stakeholders, the Assistant Field Inspector helps advance Washington State Ferries' mission while upholding the agency's core values of Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a transportation system that is vital to the communities and economy of Washington State.

As we navigate a once-in-a-generation transformation to decarbonize our system — guided by our core values Serve, Respect, Trust, Grow Navigate, and bold strategic priorities Service Excellence, Improved Communication and Empowered People — there’s never been a more meaningful time to come aboard at Washington State Ferries.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you/the Transportation Technician 3 will:

• Inspect and document contractor work to ensure compliance with contract plans, specifications, permit conditions, and applicable standards.
• Obtain required certifications and perform standardized sampling, testing, and documentation of construction materials.
• Prepare and maintain project documentation, including field notes, IDRs, MFVs, job logs, photographs, and project records in accordance with the WSDOT Construction Manual.
• Inspect existing facilities, document conditions, track material quantity and quality, and support force account repairs and emergency response.
• Coordinate with ferry operations, contractors, and WSF/WSDOT staff to support construction activities and maintain ferry service.
• Review plans, specifications, and estimates; prepare contract estimates, assist with change orders, and update As-Built drawings.
• Prepare project records for closeout and archiving.
• Uphold WSF’s strategic priorities (Service Excellence, Improved Communication, and Empowered People) and values (Serve, Grow, Trust, Respect, and Navigate), ensuring they are embedded in WSF’s culture through leadership actions

Qualifications

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

• Engineering Knowledge & Technical Application: Ability to apply engineering and mathematical principles (e.g., algebra, geometry, construction math), ability to understand and use measurements (length, area, volume), and ability to use rulers and simple measurement tools, in support of tasks such as construction inspection, drafting, surveying, plan development, design or data collection to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory standards and specifications.
• Reading Comprehension & Following Instructions: Ability to interpret plan details, engineering tables, or visual information such as graphs, and ability to complete written forms and maintain basic records.
• Communication Skills: Skills to communicate technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds.
• Software & Technical Proficiency: Experience using Windows-based computers and basic MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Equipment Proficiency: Ability to learn, effectively operate, and maintain proficiency in the tools, technology, equipment, and systems necessary to perform the essential functions of the position, including adapting to updates or new equipment and/or technologies as operational needs evolve.
• Material Testing & Analysis: Experience with multiple types of material tests, reviewing results, and ensuring compliance with project and regulatory standards and requirements.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Experience contributing to team tasks, following instructions, and learning to adapt to changing priorities.
• Vehicle Operation for Fieldwork: Possession of a valid driver’s license with the ability to operate state-owned vehicles to travel between project sites and perform assigned field duties safely.
• Safety Planning & Compliance: Experience following workplace safety procedures and participating in Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP).
• Field Reporting & Communication: Skills to prepare accurate and timely daily field reports based on direct field observations and inspection activities.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Field Operations & Equipment Handling: Experience performing a wide range of field operations independently, applying technical judgment to ensure efficient, safe, and correct use of equipment and materials.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Ability to independently perform field inspections on public works construction projects, including interpreting drawings and identifying discrepancies without direct supervision.
• Ability to conduct and document a full range of materials tests, including concrete slump/air/temperature tests, HMA sampling, grout cube preparation, and aggregate testing.
• Ability to prepare or update As-Built drawings, assist with change order documentation, or support project finalization
• Ability to navigate marine or terminal environments, including familiarity with ferry operations, vessel movements, and facility access protocols.
• Ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders simultaneously, such as contractors, consultants, operations staff, and regulatory partners.

Important Notes 

• 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 357-28of 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 renee.mason@wsdot.wa.gov.  Please be sure to reference 26DOT-WSF-90012m in the subject line.