PCC Railway Technical Engineer (TTE)
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Spokane, WA 99208
Description:
Salary : $91,068.00 - $122,496.00 Annually
Location : Spokane County - Spokane, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-04554
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 04/09/2025
Closing Date: 4/23/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking to fill the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Railway Technical Engineer position located in Spokane, WA. Reporting directly to the PCC Railway and Capital Program Manager, this position will be responsible for the design and delivery of all freight rail capital projects, management of daily operational activities and real estate issues and lease management. In this role, you will represent WSDOT to the PCC Rail Authority and the community, for the 297-mile state-owned PCC short line rail system. The PCC Railway system provides safe, reliable, and cost-effective freight rail transportation services to improve livable communities and economic vitality for people and businesses in Eastern Washington.
What to Expect
This position will require site visits at which you may be exposed to hazardous materials and mechanical equipment. In addition, this position requires the ability to traverse and move about projects for site investigation or stakeholder meetings.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the PCC Railway Technical Engineer will:
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, at least one (1) of the following are required:
In addition to one (1) of the above, the following are also required:
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
Why WSDOT
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:
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 via email.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-04554 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022
01
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as Transportation Engineer 3 or 4, Bridge Engineer 3 or equivalent.
02
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience directing the delivery of complex freight rail projects.
04
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05
Please select the response that best describes your total years of grant writing experience.
06
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience with the development and delivery of WSDOT PS&E packages.
08
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
10
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
11
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Location : Spokane County - Spokane, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-04554
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 04/09/2025
Closing Date: 4/23/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking to fill the Palouse River and Coulee City (PCC) Railway Technical Engineer position located in Spokane, WA. Reporting directly to the PCC Railway and Capital Program Manager, this position will be responsible for the design and delivery of all freight rail capital projects, management of daily operational activities and real estate issues and lease management. In this role, you will represent WSDOT to the PCC Rail Authority and the community, for the 297-mile state-owned PCC short line rail system. The PCC Railway system provides safe, reliable, and cost-effective freight rail transportation services to improve livable communities and economic vitality for people and businesses in Eastern Washington.
What to Expect
This position will require site visits at which you may be exposed to hazardous materials and mechanical equipment. In addition, this position requires the ability to traverse and move about projects for site investigation or stakeholder meetings.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the PCC Railway Technical Engineer will:
- Independently manage delivery of PCC freight rail capital projects.
- Develop and implement State Freight Rail Assistance Program and/or State Freight Rail Investment Bank agreements.
- Oversee the development and maintenance of an asset inventory and a capitalized maintenance program.
- Oversee all utility permitting on the system, oversee all utility work inspections to ensure compliance with WSDOT standards.
- Develop and oversee consultant task orders to support capital delivery and reconstruction of all public railroad crossings.
- Develop contract bid packets for biennial PCC project priorities.
- Act as the department's primary link to elected members and commissioners of the PCC Rail Authority and other stakeholders.
- Develop effective PCC communication protocols and reaffirm clear notes and responsibilities with all internal and external partners.
- Evaluate PCC Railway right-of-way for disposal, secures right-of-way, issues right of entry permits and facilitates cleanup of the system corridor.
- Oversee all work done by WSDOT Eastern Region and/or Headquarters Real Estate Services.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, at least one (1) of the following are required:
- Certification as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) and one (1) year of experience as a Transportation Engineer 4 or two (2) years of experience Transportation Engineer 3, Bridge Engineer 3 or equivalent. OR
- Three (3) years of experience as a Transportation Engineer 4. OR
- Four (4) years as a Transportation Engineer 3, Bridge Engineer 3 or equivalent.
In addition to one (1) of the above, the following are also required:
- A valid driver's license.
- Three (3) years of experience and the understanding of directing the delivery of complex freight rail projects, from the preparation of multiparty agreements, development of detailed project plans, and management of funds, staff, and contracts through construction closeout.
- Proven experience in the development and management of legal contracts and agreements and the ability to implement Complete Streets and the Heathy Environment for All (HEAL) Act into qualifying rail contracts.
- Proven experience delivering complex capital projects on-time and on-budget and skills to develop, review and provide quality oversight of schedules, budgets, and estimates.
- Knowledge of developing and delivering plans, specifications, and estimates.
- Skills to successfully manage multiple politically sensitive interactions with the elected and appointed officials and community stakeholders.
- Ability to communicate, negotiate, and partner with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work across boundaries, build and sustain effective teams, form partnerships and other governmental agencies and external groups, lead change processes, and evaluate and implement process improvements.
- Ability to understand and implement practical solutions.
- Ability to empower and support staff by utilizing business planning and lean management principles.
- Ability to provide strategic thinking and planning. Familiarization with strategic plans and planning process.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Experience with grant writing and the federal grant processes.
- Expertise in developing methods and implementing them to track the condition of the freight rail lines.
- Experience in resiliency planning and implementation.
- Experience with the development and delivery of WSDOT PS&E packages.
- Knowledge and ability to implement WSDOT "Managing Project Delivery" tools to successfully deliver projects on time and within budget; administer contracts, policies and guidelines and to effectively manage and monitor project level budgets.
- Knowledge of programming and budgeting procedures and the legislative process related to rail funding; and the ability to manage organizational level project demands, request for workload revisions, proper staffing, and balancing of executive direction.
- Thorough knowledge of, and ability to implement, personnel management policies and procedures, to include employee recognition, develop corrective action plans, and employee development and performance plans.
- Familiarity with Railroad Track design, Inspection and Safety Standards.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- Travel is a normal part of this position and may require statewide travel with overnight stays to attend training, conferences, or meetings.
- 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 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 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. 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 via email.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-04554 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022
01
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience as Transportation Engineer 3 or 4, Bridge Engineer 3 or equivalent.
- I have over six (6) years of this experience.
- I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
- I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
- I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
- I have 1 - 2 years of this experience.
- I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
02
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience directing the delivery of complex freight rail projects.
- I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have 8 - 10 years of this experience.
- I have 7 - 8 years of this experience.
- I have 6 - 7 years of this experience.
- I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
- I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
- I have less than three (3) year of this experience.
04
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05
Please select the response that best describes your total years of grant writing experience.
- I have over six (6) years of this experience.
- I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
- I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
- I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
- I have 1 - 2 years of this experience.
- I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
- I do not have this experience.
06
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
07
Please select the response that best describes your total years of experience with the development and delivery of WSDOT PS&E packages.
- I have over six (6) years of this experience.
- I have 5 - 6 years of this experience.
- I have 4 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have 3 - 4 years of this experience.
- I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
- I have 1 - 2 years of this experience.
- I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
- I do not have this experience.
08
In reference to the question above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
10
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- 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