ROW Permitting Specialist (TE2)

Transportation Engineer 2

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!

WSDOT is seeking a skilled Transportation Engineer 2 to join the North Central Region (NCR) Planning Office and support Development Services by leading the access management and control program, overseeing general right of way (ROW) permitting, and coordinating the review of land development proposals that may impact state highways. In this role, you will serve as region specialist in Managed and Limited Access inquiries, review and process access connection permits and applications to state highways while accounting for future WSDOT plans, projected traffic, and local land use. Our top candidates will have knowledge of access management, ROW permitting, and land development processes, and the ability to work effectively with internal and external partners to support safe and effective transportation development.

This position travels regularly to and from construction sites to perform inspection and/or materials testing in assigned geographic areas. Exposure to hazards include those commonly found along a state highway and in construction environments such as severe weather conditions; noise; limited visibility, proximity to high-volume, high-speed traffic; and heavy construction equipment.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the ROW Permitting Specialist will:

• Coordinate ROW and access permits from initial inquiry and application review through issuance, construction inspection, compliance resolution, and closeout.
• Respond (written and verbal) to numerous access inquiries from the public.
• Inspect permitted work and ensure permit compliance; inspect, review, and formally respond to un-permitted access connections.
• Research and develop recommendations regarding department, abutters, and local jurisdictions' rights and responsibilities, highway and non-highway use of right-of-way, and temporary encroachments.
• Prepare and review permits and agreements.
• Support Development Services Lead in compiling, reviewing, and identifying private land use proposals and decisions that result in impacts to the state highway through the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) notices and coordinating with developers and local jurisdictions.
• Identify, comment, and report on local, regional, and state land use actions that result in impacts to the state highway system.

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

• Analytical Thinking & Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking, sound judgment, strategic judgment, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills to address difficult and complex challenges while exercising tact and adhering to established practices.
• Land Development & Regulatory Knowledge: Knowledge of the authorities and responsibilities of local, regional, and state agencies and applicable local, state, and federal statutes related to land development.
• Transportation & Access Management: Knowledge of the principles and impacts of land development on traffic operations, highway access, safety, vehicle mobility, and active transportation safety and comfort, including highway access management programs.
• Construction & Contract Administration: Knowledge of construction practices, contract administration, contractor/owner relationships, basic contract law, and material testing procedures.
• Technical Research & Interpretation: Ability to research, interpret, and apply contract provisions, plans, drawings, and technical details.
• Workload Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, and effectively manage multiple assignments.
• Safety: Positively contributes to a culture of safety.
• Communication & Collaboration: Ability to communicate effectively in writing, orally, and graphically; collaborate with internal and external interdisciplinary teams; and share accurate, pertinent information in a timely manner.
• Growth Mindset & Service-Oriented: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth. Demonstrates a willingness to take 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.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Interagency & Stakeholder Coordination: Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with government agencies, the public, private citizens, contractors, and other stakeholders.

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

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

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 a choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

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.

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.