Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 - TEF

Salary: $96,144.00 - $111,504.00 Annually
Location : Clark County - Vancouver, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-SWR-40424
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Southwest Region
Opening Date: 05/20/2026
Closing Date: 6/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific


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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 in our Southwest Region. The WSDOT Transportation Equipment Fund (TEF) provides well maintained vehicles and equipment to WSDOT divisions and organizations to utilize in accomplishing agency services, projects, maintenance, and other tasks. This position serves as the supervisory lead responsible for planning, directing, and managing heavy equipment maintenance operations, ensuring safe, compliant, and cost-effective repair and maintenance services for heavy equipment exceeding 26,000 GVWR. The HEM4 Supervisor oversees a team of Heavy Equipment Mechanics (HEM1-HEM3), ensures maintenance quality and safety compliance, supports statewide maintenance readiness, and promotes efficient use of resources to support WSDOT operations in Southwest Region outside shops.
What to Expect
Typical schedule hours are from 6:00AM to 4:30PM, Monday through Friday. Weekends and holidays may be required to respond to non-scheduled call-out emergencies. Must be able to report in service to assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call. Work alternate and emergency shifts as situations dictate. Respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions; 24 hours a day 7 days a week, alone or a part of a team as needed. Work long hours, including nights. Occasional standby and call-back may be required.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Heavy Equipment Mechanic 4 will:

• Supervise, assign, and evaluate the work of Heavy Equipment Mechanics (HEM1-HEM3).
• Independently plan, prioritize, and coordinate maintenance, repair, fabrication, and outfitting operations.
• Conduct performance evaluations, initiate corrective actions, and recommend staffing and training needs.
• Ensure work is performed in compliance with WSDOT policies, state and federal regulations, and safety standards. Monitor workload, staffing, equipment downtime, and operational delays.
• Maintain and review maintenance documentation, repair records, estimates, and schedules; ensure accuracy and compliance with agency and OFM requirements.
• Lead and enforce employee safety practices.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for supervisory staff.

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

• Teamwork & Leadership: Demonstrated ability to serve as a supervisor/lead mechanic and subject matter expert, providing technical direction, mentoring, and on-the-job training to lower-level mechanics (HEM1-HEM3). Proven experience assigning, prioritizing, reviewing, and ensuring quality of work performed by others. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to foster a respectful, inclusive, and safety-focused work environment. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in shop or field settings and to coordinate effectively with supervisors, staff, vendors, and other agencies.
• Advanced Heavy Equipment Diagnostics & Repair: Expert-level ability to independently diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, overhaul, and modify a wide range of complex highway equipment and vehicle systems. Extensive experience with heavy-duty diesel and gas engines, power trains, drivetrains, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, electronic fuel management systems, steering and suspension systems, and braking systems including air, hydraulic, and anti-lock brake systems (ABS). Proficient in advanced use of electronic diagnostic software, scan tools, and test equipment to resolve highly complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic system failures.
• Preventative Maintenance Program Leadership & Equipment Reliability: Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate preventative maintenance (PM) programs for small, large, and heavy equipment used in highway maintenance and engineering operations. Skilled in identifying systemic issues, evaluating equipment condition and performance trends, correcting safety deficiencies, and recommending repairs or modifications to reduce downtime, extend service life, and ensure fleet readiness.
• Welding, Fabrication & Specialized Systems: Advanced proficiency in welding, metal fabrication, and blacksmith repair techniques. Demonstrated ability to design, fabricate, install, and modify specialized components, attachments, and integrated control systems, including electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems. Experience leading fabrication projects that support complex, customized, or mission-critical equipment used in highway maintenance operations.
• Safety Leadership & Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive knowledge of occupational safety standards and regulatory requirements applicable to heavy equipment repair, welding, fabrication, and hazardous materials handling. Proven ability to lead safety efforts, including development, implementation, and oversight of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP). Demonstrated commitment to promoting safe work practices, ensuring compliance, and mentoring staff on safety procedures in shop and field environments.
• Technical, Administrative & Systems Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Fleet Equipment Management System (FEMS) and standard computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook). Ability to interpret and apply complex technical manuals, engineering specifications, schematics, and blueprints. Skilled in maintaining, reviewing, and validating accurate repair records, maintenance documentation, estimates, and reports to support operational, compliance, and audit requirements.
• Licensing & Certification: Possession of a Washington State Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with N endorsement and without air brake restrictions (or ability to obtain within six months of hire). Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to one of the above, the following are also required:

• Currently possess a valid Washington Class A CDL with N endorsement and no airbrake restrictions.
• DOT Brake Certification.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Advanced Automotive and Diesel Systems Expertise: Demonstrated expert-level ability to lead and perform advanced inspection, diagnosis, overhaul, modification, and repair of complex automotive and diesel-powered vehicles and heavy equipment. Experience serving as a technical resource to others to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable equipment performance.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA). For more information, please go to
• 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

Why WSDOT

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

Check out this video to learn 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 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.

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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Please be sure to reference Heavy Equipment Mechanic 40424 in the subject line.
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 (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 (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 , 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

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01


Describe your level of experience leading or supervising employees in a shop or field environment.

• None: No supervisory experience.
• Limited: Occasional informal leadership or task direction.
• Moderate: Leads small teams; assigns and monitor's work.
• Extensive: Full supervisory responsibility, including performance and work management.

02


Describe your level of experience diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.

• None
• Basic: Limited experience; performs routine maintenance and simple repairs under supervision.
• Intermediate: Performs diagnostics and repairs on common mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems with some independence.
• Advanced: Independently diagnoses and repairs complex mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic system issues.

03


Have you been responsible for scheduling preventive maintenance or repair work?

• Yes
• No

04


Have you addressed employee performance issues or corrective actions?

• Yes
• No

05


Describe your level of experience using fleet management systems or maintenance tracking software (e.g., M5).

• None: No experience using fleet management or maintenance tracking systems.
• Basic: Limited use; enters or views basic work orders with guidance.
• Intermediate: Regularly use systems to create, update, and track maintenance work.
• Advanced: Fully proficient; manages data, generates reports, and uses system tools to support planning and decision-making.

06


Describe your level of experience performing heavy equipment repair and maintenance in a shop or field setting.

• None
• Basic: Perform routine maintenance and simple repairs with supervision.
• Intermediate: Independently perform a range of repairs and maintenance on heavy equipment.
• Advanced: Expert-level experience diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining complex heavy equipment systems independently.

07


Do you possess a valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned or fleet vehicles as part of your work?

• Yes
• No

08


Do you have a DOT Brake Certification?

• Yes
• No

09


Do you currently hold a valid Washington Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?

• Yes
• No

10


How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

11


If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question