Scour Engineer (BE5) In-Training

Salary : $93,288.00 - $138,552.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-00519
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 09/08/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 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 Bridge Engineer 5 to join the Bridge Preservation Office and support the statewide Bridge Scour Program. In this role, you will serve as a registered professional engineer responsible for conducting federally mandated scour inspections, developing and maintaining action plans to protect scour-critical bridges. You will support WSDOT's mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation by ensuring the safety and reliability of bridges on the state highway system. This work includes investigating scour mitigation measures, designing and reviewing scour repairs, conducting scour assessments, supporting bridge inspections, and working with WSDOT staff and hydraulic consultants on statewide scour projects.
What to Expect

This position provides opportunities to share technical knowledge by participating in training for local agencies, WSDOT personnel, and other outside agencies. Frequent statewide travel is an important part of the role, with overnight travel and periods when you may be in travel status for most of the workweek.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Manage the Bridge Scour Program by performing scour assessments and developing, maintaining, and updating Scour Plans of Action.
• Develop lists of bridges requiring scour inspections, repairs, fathometric surveys, and underwater inspections.
• Review underwater inspection and fathometric reports to evaluate bridges for scour susceptibility.
• Work with HQ Hydraulics to design scour repairs and prepare detailed drawings.
• Manage and update scour databases and spreadsheets and generate status reports as needed.
• Ensure bridge files contain the information necessary to meet National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) requirements and current Bridge Preservation Office protocols.
• Review recommended scour-related repairs and provide feedback.
• Direct the compilation of scour-related information for HQ Hydraulics, engineering and environmental staff, and consultants.
• Work with HQ Hydraulics and hydraulic consultants to complete statewide scour projects.
• Participate as a member of an instructional team providing scour-related training to local agencies, WSDOT employees, and other agencies.
• Serve as a Lead Inspector on bridge inspection teams using routine and nondestructive inspection methods, including operating an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) from below bridge decks.
• Prepare bridge inspection reports and recommended repairs.

Qualifications

This is a Bridge Engineer 5 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
At minimum, the following competencies are required:

• Civil Engineering : Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited program.
• Professional Engineering : Current registration as a Professional Engineer in Washington State, or the ability to obtain Washington registration through comity within 6 months.
• Scour Program Knowledge: Working knowledge of SNBI scour-related coding, including scour vulnerability, scour condition, channel condition, and channel protection condition.
• Scour Assessment: Familiarity with scour assessments and Scour Plans of Action.
• Effective Communication: Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing, with team members.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Respectful Workplace: Actively contributes to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.

In addition to the competencies above, candidates at the Bridge Engineer 5 level must also demonstrate:

• Bridge Inspection Leadership: Certification as a Team Leader for bridge and tunnel inspection in accordance with NBIS and NTIS.
• Advanced Scour Program Knowledge : Specialized knowledge of SNBI scour-related coding, including scour vulnerability, scour condition, channel condition, and channel protection condition.
• Scour Engineering: Ability to develop scour assessments and Scour Plans of Action and make scour repair recommendations.
• Technical Collaboration: Effectively communicates and collaborates with Hydraulic Engineers.
• Technical Training: Provides technical support and training related to scour, scour countermeasures, and channel condition coding.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid, unrestricted Washington State driver's license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) at the time of hire.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Hydraulics: Advanced knowledge of hydraulics, typically gained through a master's degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in hydraulics or experience performing hydraulic analysis and design.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• This position requires frequent overnight travel.
• This position requires a Professional Engineers License issued by the State of Washington. License holders from other states will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six (6) months of appointment.
• This is a Bridge Engineer 5 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:
  • Bridge Engineer 5: $102,996 - $138,552 Annually
  • Bridge Engineer 4: $93,288 - $125,544 Annually
• 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.
• 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 their 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 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.
Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-00519 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


Do you currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license in Washington State?

• Yes
• No
• No, licensed in another state

02


If you indicated you have a Professional Engineer (PE) license, please provide your PE license number and issuing state. If you do not have this license, please enter N/A.
03


Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

• I have a master's degree or higher.
• I have a bachelor's degree.
• I have an associate's degree.
• I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• None of the above

04


If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.
05


List any engineering classes related to hydraulics that you have completed successfully in college, If you do not have these courses, please enter N/A.
06


List any training that you have completed related to hydraulics. If you do not have these training(s), please enter N/A.
07


Please describe your experience with hydraulic analysis and design, including any advanced education or training in hydraulics. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
08


Please describe your knowledge or experience with scour assessments, Scour Plans of Action, and SNBI scour-related coding. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
09


Which best describes your experience leading bridge or tunnel inspection teams?

• Currently certified as a Team Leader for bridge and tunnel inspection in accordance with NBIS and NTIS.
• Previously served in a bridge or tunnel inspection leadership role but do not currently hold the certification.
• Have participated in bridge or tunnel inspections but have not served as a Team Leader.
• I do not have this experience.

10


Do you have a valid, unrestricted driver's license?
11


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)

12


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