
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 I-405/SR 167 Program is currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 2 to serve as an Environmental Compliance Inspector. The I-405/SR 167 Program is a highly visible, political, and complex multi-billion-dollar capital construction program. In this role, you will be responsible for performing Quality Verification (QV) environmental inspection duties and checking work for compliance with contract requirements, plans, permits, and commitments. This position is crucial in promoting a respectful and inclusive work environment with a strong focus on diversity and equity. Join us in positively impacting the transportation system and our communities.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Environmental Compliance Inspector will:
- Inspect project sites and evaluate project work to detect design malfunctions and check work for conformance to design specifications and applicable codes.
- Prepare reports and document project activities and data into Inspector Daily Reports (IDRs).
- Address maintenance issues occurring at project site with supervisor and discuss potential resolutions.
- Monitor construction schedule, delays, and potential change order issues by discussing with the Design-Builder/ Quality Assurance (QA) Team and observing work in the field.
- Read and review contract documents and specifications to determine dimensions of structure or system and material requirements to identify potential issues.
- Advise Design-Builder of resolution to problems involving public safety and quality.
- Assist the Lead Inspector in reviewing the monthly progress payment invoice.
- Assist in research and preparation for change orders and requests for information.
- Attend and participate in weekly task-force meetings for Construction Schedule, Quality Organization, Environmental, Maintenance of Traffic and others as assigned.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Inspection & Compliance Expertise: Ability to conduct environmental and construction inspections for bridges, structures, stormwater, utilities, and other transportation infrastructure to verify compliance with contract requirements, plans, permits, and commitments.
- Technical Interpretation: Skills to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, permits, and relevant standards (e.g., WSDOT, MUTCD, AASHTO) to identify issues and recommend corrective actions.
- Quality Verification & Documentation: Proficiency in preparing inspection reports, daily logs, and audit documentation, including photographic records, to support compliance tracking and decision-making.
- Communication & Collaboration: Ability to clearly and respectfully communicate concise technical and contractual administration correspondence to internal teams and external stakeholders, both verbally and in writing.
- Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Skills to analyze complex site conditions and construction means and methods to identify potential risks and recommend effective solutions to maintain safety, quality, and schedule requirements.
- Technology Proficiency: Ability to use standard office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and specialized inspection tools/equipment, including environmental monitoring devices and personal protective equipment.
- Safety & Environmental Awareness: Knowledge of construction site hazards, environmental compliance practices, and safe work procedures.
- Respect and Equity: Demonstrated ability to contribute to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
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 obtain Certified Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) Certification within six (6) months of hire through on-the-job training.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Design-Build Project Experience: Demonstrated ability to perform quality verification inspections and audits on design-build transportation projects.
- Audit & Quality Systems Knowledge: Experience preparing and conducting QV audits using tools such as the Construction Audit Tracking System (CATS).
- Advanced Materials Testing Skills: Ability to perform and interpret tests for soil density, asphalt, concrete, water quality, and other materials common in transportation construction.
- Regulatory Familiarity: Working knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations and transportation engineering standards.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Experience engaging with multiple parties including contractors, agencies, and the public to resolve technical and compliance issues.
- Certifications, Degree and/or Licenses:
- General Inspector Certification in aggregate, concrete, and hot mix asphalt density
- Erosion and Sediment Control Lead (CESCL) Certification
- Engineer-In-Training (EIT) Certification
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSCE)
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- 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, 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. NOTE: This information may 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-NWR-80583 in the subject line.
Salary- $75,045 - $100,951/year
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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 07-21-2025