Transportation Planning Specialist 4
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Yakima, WA 98909
Description:
Salary: $76,608.00 - $103,008.00 Annually
Location : Yakima County - Union Gap, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-SCR-50186
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: South Central Region
Opening Date: 02/19/2025
Closing Date: 3/5/2025 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 seeking a motivated individual who has a passion for environmental issues to join the South Central Region (SCR) Environmental Office located in Union Gap, WA. This is a professional level and skilled position acting as the Regional Maintenance Environmental Coordinator for Maintenance activities. This position independently procures environmental permits and is responsible to ensure compliance. In addition, this position serves as the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Lead in SCR for the Municipal Stormwater National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, serves as a statewide trainer for the Regional Road Maintenance Program and performs biological duties as directed. This position requires independent judgment and responsibility to select sound techniques and alternatives.
Our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options, and to improve communities and economic vitality for people and businesses in Washington. This work is critical for the safety, well-being, and prosperity of the people in the region and the state.
Our values include:
The Regional Maintenance Environmental Coordinator position is critical to assist the Maintenance and Operations office in reaching our mission while being mindful and informed of our values. This position supports the agency's value of Sustainability by being a resource steward, supporting economic, environmental and community needs.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
OR
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
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-SCR-50186 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
Do you have a four-year degree in environmental studies, Natural Sciences, Planning, Engineering, or related degree in Business Administration fields?
02
Do you have a master's degree in environmental studies, Natural Sciences, Planning, Engineering, or related degree in Business Administration fields?
03
How many years of professional experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation related issues?
04
How many years of experience do you have as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, Landscape Designer 2 or equivalent experience from a city, county, or private agency?
05
Do you have a solid understanding of State and National Environmental Policy Acts review and compliance requirements?
06
Do you have any experience working with Federal, Tribal, State and/or local environmental laws and regulations?
07
Do you have Knowledge of the Regional Road Maintenance 4(d) ESA program?
08
Are you able to maneuver and/or manipulate up to 50 pounds of field equipment?
09
Do you have a valid driver's license with the ability to travel to sites with occasional overnight stays?
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 : Yakima County - Union Gap, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-SCR-50186
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: South Central Region
Opening Date: 02/19/2025
Closing Date: 3/5/2025 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 seeking a motivated individual who has a passion for environmental issues to join the South Central Region (SCR) Environmental Office located in Union Gap, WA. This is a professional level and skilled position acting as the Regional Maintenance Environmental Coordinator for Maintenance activities. This position independently procures environmental permits and is responsible to ensure compliance. In addition, this position serves as the Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Lead in SCR for the Municipal Stormwater National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, serves as a statewide trainer for the Regional Road Maintenance Program and performs biological duties as directed. This position requires independent judgment and responsibility to select sound techniques and alternatives.
Our mission is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options, and to improve communities and economic vitality for people and businesses in Washington. This work is critical for the safety, well-being, and prosperity of the people in the region and the state.
Our values include:
The Regional Maintenance Environmental Coordinator position is critical to assist the Maintenance and Operations office in reaching our mission while being mindful and informed of our values. This position supports the agency's value of Sustainability by being a resource steward, supporting economic, environmental and community needs.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Coordinate with regional specialists in areas such as hydraulics, geotechnical, survey, hazardous materials, and others to ensure maintenance forces have the best available information to perform necessary maintenance tasks.
- Advise staff on how to comply with all applicable environmental laws, rules, and regulations and provide environmental oversight during construction.
- Determine permit and documentation requirements/needs and coordinate preparation of applications for maintenance activities.
- Serve as the technical support lead to Maintenance for emergency spill response, Endangered Species Act (ESA), and Sensitive Area best practices and compliance.
- Review complex regulatory revisions or new regulatory mandates in coordination with HQ personnel and regional staff to assess the potential impacts to regional maintenance operations and methods.
- Ensure compliance with Ecology Sand and Gravel NPDES, permit pit site expansion and Ecology permit renewals for the Materials office.
- Independently conduct site visits to evaluate conditions and assist maintenance personnel in identifying and solving problems in the field, develops and recommends project solutions, best management practices for projects, and mitigating measures for unavoidable impacts.
- Provide training, investigate complaints, coordinate corrections, and ensure compliance with the WSDOT Municipal Stormwater NPDES permit.
- Respond to Third party spills and coordinate with WSDOT offices, regulatory agencies, contractors, and responsible parties to ensure remediation to Model Toxics Control Act standards.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:
- Four (4) year degree in Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Planning, Engineering, or related Business Administration fields andthree (3) years professional experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation related issues. A master's degree in one of the above fields will substitute for one (1) year of required experience.
OR
- Two (2) years as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, Landscape Designer 2 or equivalent classification in city, county, or private agencies.
- Knowledge of Federal, Tribal, State, and local environmental laws and regulations.
- Thorough understanding of environmental issues and impacts related to highway design, construction, and maintenance.
- Knowledge and understanding of State and National Environmental Policy Acts review and compliance requirements.
- Interpersonal skills to build business relationships and instruct others on technical subject matters.
- Ability to learn and adapt to new rules and regulations in the environmental field.
- Valid Driver's License
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Experience and/or ability to coordinate and direct emergency spill response incidents and follow up.
- Knowledge of the Regional Road Maintenance 4(d) ESA program.
- One (1) year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 3, Transportation Engineer 3, or equivalent classification in city, county, or private agencies.
Important Notes
- 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, 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 Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- 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 listed recruiter via email.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned recruiter, at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-SCR-50186 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
Do you have a four-year degree in environmental studies, Natural Sciences, Planning, Engineering, or related degree in Business Administration fields?
- Yes
- No
02
Do you have a master's degree in environmental studies, Natural Sciences, Planning, Engineering, or related degree in Business Administration fields?
- Yes
- No
03
How many years of professional experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation related issues?
- I have 6 or more years of this experience
- I have at least 5 years of experience
- I have at least 4 years of experience
- I have at least 3 years of experience
- I have at least 2 years of experience
- I have less than 1 year of experience
- I do not have this experience
04
How many years of experience do you have as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, Landscape Designer 2 or equivalent experience from a city, county, or private agency?
- I have 6 or more years of this experience
- I have at least 5 years of experience
- I have at least 4 years of experience
- I have at least 3 years of experience
- I have at least 2 years of experience
- I have less than 1 year of experience
- I do not have this experience
05
Do you have a solid understanding of State and National Environmental Policy Acts review and compliance requirements?
- Yes
- No
06
Do you have any experience working with Federal, Tribal, State and/or local environmental laws and regulations?
- Yes
- No
07
Do you have Knowledge of the Regional Road Maintenance 4(d) ESA program?
- Yes
- No
08
Are you able to maneuver and/or manipulate up to 50 pounds of field equipment?
- Yes
- No
09
Do you have a valid driver's license with the ability to travel to sites with occasional overnight stays?
- 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