Environmental Review and Permitting Engineer (TE 2, In-Training)

Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)

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 motivated and detail-oriented Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training) to join the Environmental & Hydraulic Services (EHS) Office, Design Bid Build Permits & Documentation Unit in Lacey, WA. In this role, you will support the delivery of transportation projects throughout the Olympic Region by preparing environmental review documents and permit applications required for project approval and construction authorization. You will collaborate with project teams, environmental specialists, and regulatory agencies to identify permitting needs, determine required environmental investigations and supporting documentation, and ensure projects comply with federal and state environmental regulations, policies, and agency standards, including National and State Environmental Policy Act requirements.

This position also provides Environmental Compliance Support, by conducting field investigations and site reviews to verify compliance with environmental commitments, permit conditions, and regulatory requirements during project delivery. This is an excellent opportunity for an emerging engineering professional interested in environmental stewardship, transportation infrastructure, and public service while helping advance the mission, vision, and values of Washington State Department of Transportation.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Environmental Review and Permitting Engineer will:

• Prepare permit applications and determine supporting documentation, mainly for Design Bid Build projects.
• Contact, coordinate, meet, and negotiate with resource and permitting agency personnel to obtain permits.
• Review draft contract plans and specifications.
• Identify and coordinate obtaining needed supporting documentation for permits and documentation.
• Determine preliminary environmental impacts and likely environmental documentation and permitting needs for assigned projects in the project definition phase.
• Prepare and write environmental review documents.
• Conduct field compliance checks of project sites.

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

Transportation Engineer 1 (TE1) level: Foundational knowledge of basic engineering and mathematical principles to solve routine engineering problems, typically gained through education, experience, training, or certification (EIT or LSIT). Ability to apply this knowledge to design, construction, and inspection tasks.

Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) Level: In addition to the above, to qualify at the Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) level, the following is required:

• Foundational Engineering Technical Skills and Knowledge: Foundational knowledge of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, with the ability to apply engineering concepts to real-world transportation project scenarios.
• Technical Interpretation, Analysis, and Problem Solving: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret engineering plans, specifications, contract documents, manuals, and technical data; identify issues or discrepancies; and apply sound engineering judgment to support effective, practical solutions.
• Engineering Documentation and Records Management: Ability to accurately document engineering, inspection, survey, materials, or project support activities through reports, field notes, calculations, quantities, records, and other required documentation in accordance with established standards and procedures.
• Engineering Technology and Software: Ability to use, or learn to use, engineering-related software and digital tools to support design, analysis, documentation, inspection, data collection, and project delivery (e.g., databases, spreadsheets, and agency systems).

In addition to the above, the following competencies and licenses are required at any level:

• Data Analysis & Technical Proficiency: Proficient in using engineering and office software tools to analyze data, develop reports, and support project decisions. Experience with spreadsheets, databases, and other analytical tools is essential for managing technical documentation, interpreting results, and ensuring accurate reporting.
• Communication Skills: Skills in communicating information effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing, to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, both virtually and in-person. Including listening, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back on constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
• Project Coordination & Time Management: Demonstrated ability to manage and prioritize multiple assignments, often under tight deadlines. Candidates must be able to track concurrent projects, maintain clear documentation, and ensure timely delivery of tasks in alignment with project schedules and agency objectives.
• Standards and Procedures: Experience learning and applying standards, policies, and procedures related to transportation engineering projects.

• Vehicle Operation for Fieldwork: Possession of a valid driver's license and ability to operate state owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Environmental Regulations & Compliance Knowledge: Knowledge and understanding of environmental documentation, including NEPA and SEPA, and environmental permitting requirements as they relate to transportation projects.
• Environmental Documentation & Permitting Experience: Experience preparing and writing environmental review documents and environmental permit applications.
• Environmental Analysis & Problem-Solving: Experience analyzing environmental issues and compliance challenges related to transportation projects and applying appropriate solutions.
• Construction Environmental Compliance: Advanced knowledge of environmental compliance in the field for transportation projects. Field experience involving construction inspection and contract enforcement of environmental requirements.

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.

These are in-training positions that offer a career path, hands-on learning, and mentorship. These positions allow you to progress upward through the Transportation Engineer classification series and achieve the goal class of a Transportation Engineer 2. Candidates will be considered for a Transportation Engineer 1 or a Transportation Engineer 2, depending on their qualifications. Annual salary levels for each position are:

• Transportation Engineer 2: $71,472 - $96,144
• Transportation Engineer 1: $64,776 - $87,048

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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.

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.

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