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 is excited to offer an entry-level opportunity for a Transportation Planning Technician in the Southwest Region Environmental Office, located in Vancouver, WA. This position is ideal for individuals looking to begin a career as an environmental professional. As a Transportation Planning Technician, you will assist with a variety of transportation-related activities by performing foundational environmental tasks under direct supervision. This role plays a key part in supporting WSDOT’s mission and strategic goals, particularly in alignment with RCW 47.04.280, by promoting environmental protection and improvements in regional construction, maintenance, and operations. This position is instrumental in upholding a respectful, inclusive, and healthy work environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion—core values of WSDOT’s workplace culture. This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic team and contribute to projects that positively impact communities and the environment across Washington State.

What to Expect

This position performs work indoors in an office setting and outdoors. While out in the field duties may require negotiating rough or steep terrain, which may include downed logs, dense brush, shallow streams, tidal channels and steep slopes.   

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Planning Technician will:

• Provide technical assistance support to higher level specialists within the SWR Environmental Team in carrying out environmental documentation, roadside restoration, and compliance responsibilities consistent with local, state, and federal regulations. 
• Assist with preparation of environmental documentation.
• Assembles data; assist in preparing biological, cultural, noise, and other special studies. 
• Research and write portions of permit applications. 
• Prepare environmental commitment lists and compliance notebooks for construction; prepares environmental memos and maps.
• Produce Environmental Review Summaries (ERSs) using GIS software for environmental scoping of future projects. 
• Perform field work and complete data collection. 
• Participate in various environmental studies such as biological assessments, hazardous material assessments, wetland delineations, and wildlife surveys; assists in compiling data, drawing supporting sketches and preparing reports.
• Assist Environmental Compliance Inspector. 
• Conduct fish exclusion work for projects requiring in water work, pre-project and active construction avian/wildlife monitoring and surveys.

Qualifications

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

• Completion of at least two (2) semesters or three (3) quarters (or equivalent) of study in Biology, Environmental Science/Studies, Landscape Architecture, Natural Resources or Engineering curriculum, or a closely related field, or community college or equivalent related education/experience. 
• A valid driver’s license. 
• Effective communication skills with the ability to communicate in person, in writing, and on the telephone.
• The ability to manipulate and/or relocate tools and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds. 
• Skills to 
  • Manage and organize complex tasks simultaneously
  • Meet deadlines and prioritize work assignments
  • Work in large and multi-cultural settings in a cooperative manner
  • Research and summarize information in a clear and concise manner
  • Use a PC to evaluate data, prepare and generate reports, use databases, and prepare Word documents
  • Read, understand and follow written instructions or procedures

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Knowledge of environmental laws and regulations.
• Experience with GIS software. 

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.   
• This is a non-permanent opportunity, expected to last six (6) months.
• In addition to the salary range listed, a general wage increase of 3% will be applied for all state employees on July 1, 2025.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Travel within limits of Southwest Region for projects site visits or meetings with stakeholders and occasional statewide travel for training may be required. 
• The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted June 10, 2025. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.
• 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 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
• 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.

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-SWR-41594n in the subject line.