Highway Maintenance Lead (HMW3)

Benefits

Questions

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 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 currently seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 to work as a member of the Olympic Region’s (OR) Maintenance & Operations team out of Port Angeles, WA. Under the direction of the Highway Maintenance Supervisor, they will be responsible for leading entry and journey level Highway Maintenance Workers while operating a wide variety of equipment, tools and regularly performing skilled maintenance tasks throughout WSDOT roadways. This position may occasionally supervise a crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Supervisor. The safety of the public and fellow employees is a top priority and must be considered in every decision and activity.

This position directly supports the agency strategic plan and goal areas of 1) Workforce Development, by leading a workplace that supports and promotes training and development for professional growth and upward mobility; 2) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, by creating, influencing, and fostering a physically and psychologically safe workplace where all employees feel that they belong; and 3) Resilience, by ensuring, through adherence to WSDOT policies, that the maintenance and preservation of assigned roadways and assets are administered to the expected quality, safety, and stewardship standards to support Washington’s long-term resilience.

What to Expect

Work is often physical in nature and performed primarily outdoors and often next to high-volume, high-speed traffic that may require standing for extended periods of time. A typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 40-hours per week, for 4, 10-hour days. Weekends and holidays may be required to respond to non-scheduled or call-out emergencies. Rotational night shift is required.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Lead will:

Lead Highway Maintenance Crews in the daily performance of all maintenance and operations tasks throughout State Highways.

Prioritize, plan, schedule, and budget maintenance activities, lead, schedule, and direct highway maintenance activities.

Maintain and submit daily records and reports of maintenance activities; enter all maintenance activities into computerized systems (e.g., Highway Activity Tracking System (HATS), Work Zone Data base (WZDB), Traffic Sign Management System (TSMS, etc.); review computerized records to ensure accuracy.

Train personnel in equipment usage, safety, highway maintenance, and public relations.

Perform asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance and repair; apply concrete, asphalt, and synthetic materials.

Perform drainage maintenance including catch basins, sedimentation facilities, and ditches; erosion and slide repair; sign maintenance and repair; and guardrail, fence, and impact attenuator installation and repair.

Qualifications

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

Technical & Operational Expertise:

Ability to apply knowledge and skills in highway and maintenance operations, including traffic control, vehicle operation, bridge maintenance, and equipment handling, ensuring safe and effective completion of tasks.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills:

Effectively communicate with diverse audiences, both orally and in writing, to provide clear information and support collaboration.

Customer Service Excellence:

Provide responsive, courteous, and professional service to internal and external customers, resolving issues and maintaining positive relationships.

Independent Work & Prioritization:

Manage workload independently, efficiently prioritizing multiple assignments to meet deadlines and operational needs.

Technology & Data Management:

Proficiently use Windows-based computers and software to complete documentation, reporting, and operational tasks accurately and efficiently.

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

Possession of an unrestricted Class A CDL with N endorsement to operate vehicles in Washington State.

Possession of a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card with experience performing traffic control per MUTCD including planning, setting signs and cones or barrels, and flagging; or obtain within six (6) months of hire.

Possession of Washington State Pesticide Applicator’s License; or obtain within twelve (12) months of hire.

Obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.

Ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call.

Ability to transport, move, and manipulate various types of equipment weighing 50 pounds or more.

Ability to work at elevated heights above 25 feet over land or water, as well as traverse in rough, steep, and uneven terrain.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

High school graduation, or possession of a GED certificate, or equivalent

Three (3) years of experience in one of the following job classes: Highway Maintenance Worker 2, Bridge Maintenance Technician 2, or Maintenance Specialist 2.

One (1) year of experience operating and transporting equipment.

Experience operating vehicles weighing 26,000 GVW.

Experience leading and/or supervising crews, providing clear direction, and making good decisions in stressful conditions.

Possession of a Plans Reading Certification.

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

This position is not eligible for remote work.

Travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis. Overnight travel is required.

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.

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 DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.

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.

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 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.

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.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-OR-30357e 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 WAC 357-31-165 (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 WAC 357-31-165 (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 WAC 357-58-175, 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.

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

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

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

Updated 07-21-2025

• Lead Highway Maintenance Crews in the daily performance of all maintenance and operations tasks throughout State Highways.
• Prioritize, plan, schedule, and budget maintenance activities, lead, schedule, and direct highway maintenance activities.
• Maintain and submit daily records and reports of maintenance activities; enter all maintenance activities into computerized systems (e.g., Highway Activity Tracking System (HATS), Work Zone Data base (WZDB), Traffic Sign Management System (TSMS, etc.); review computerized records to ensure accuracy.
• Train personnel in equipment usage, safety, highway maintenance, and public relations.
• Perform asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance and repair; apply concrete, asphalt, and synthetic materials.
• Perform drainage maintenance including catch basins, sedimentation facilities, and ditches; erosion and slide repair; sign maintenance and repair; and guardrail, fence, and impact attenuator installation and repair.

• Technical & Operational Expertise: Ability to apply knowledge and skills in highway and maintenance operations, including traffic control, vehicle operation, bridge maintenance, and equipment handling, ensuring safe and effective completion of tasks.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Effectively communicate with diverse audiences, both orally and in writing, to provide clear information and support collaboration.
• Customer Service Excellence: Provide responsive, courteous, and professional service to internal and external customers, resolving issues and maintaining positive relationships.
• Independent Work & Prioritization: Manage workload independently, efficiently prioritizing multiple assignments to meet deadlines and operational needs.
• Technology & Data Management: Proficiently use Windows-based computers and software to complete documentation, reporting, and operational tasks accurately and efficiently.

• Benefits
• Paid Leave
• Tuition Assistance
• Plan For Your Future
• 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.