Lead Inspector (TE3)

Description About WSDOT Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state.
In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project.
The Opportunity WSDOT is currently seeking a Lead Inspector (Transportation Engineer 3) to play a crucial role in overseeing highly visible and complex multi-billion-dollar capital construction programs, specifically the SR 520 Bridge Replacement and HOV Program (SR 520) and Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program (AWV).
Reporting directly to the Assistant Secretary for Urban Mobility and Access, this position involves supervising inspection activities, ensuring compliance with contracts, and serving as the primary liaison with on-site contractors.
The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing records for project activities, providing daily field reports, and offering expertise in various construction areas, including roadway, sidewalk, traffic control, storm systems, electrical components, foundations, and more.
This role is pivotal in upholding contract adherence and accurate documentation.
What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Lead Inspector will: Supervise and oversee various construction inspection activities.
Address field problems promptly and recommend effective solutions.
Direct and ensure the quality of contract work performed in the field.
Guarantee compliance with contract specifications, plans, permits, and work commitments.
Clarify contract requirements to contractors, interpreting and explaining documents.
Support research and preparation for change orders, compiling relevant field records.
Regularly check and discuss the construction schedule with contractors.
Review PS&E submittals, compile comments, and attend project and staff meetings.
Keep the team updated on field activities and coordinate with internal and external parties.
Lead staff by providing training, mentoring, oversight, and conducting performance reviews.
Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required: One (1) year of experience as a Transportation Engineer 2, Bridge Engineer 2, or Transportation Planning Specialist 2 or equivalent.
Ability to exercise sound engineering judgment and interpret and analyze construction contract plans, specifications, permits, and other documentation for conformance with policies, regulations, and standards.
Strong understanding of construction practices and engineering principles.
Fluency in the use of the following computer applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Ability to traverse uneven surfaces and ability to work in dirty/dusty/noisy environments.
Ability to work any shift, day or night, to meet the required job functions.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have the following: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related field.
Two (2) years of progressively responsible Civil Engineering Experience, with a demonstrated comprehensive understanding of construction administration functions and processes or equivalent experience.
Experience as an inspector on WSDOT Projects.
Familiarity with the following standards: WSDOT, MUTCD, and AASHTO.
Familiarity with SOOT standards.
Engineer-in-training certification.
Valid driver’s license.
Important Notes This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position is not eligible for remote work.
The salary listed includes the legislative-approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
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.
wa.
gov.
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.
Why WSDOT Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensuring that our staff experience the reward of public service while sustaining a routine that suits each individual’s lifestyle.
Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees 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 federal student loan forgiveness eligibility.
Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes various 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 your salary.
Therefore, the “Work Experience” portion of the application must be completed in as much detail as possible.
To be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: An attached Resume outlines (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; it does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed.
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This step is required to apply for this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal-opportunity employer.
We value the importance of creating an environment where 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 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, Yasmin Munoz, at MunozY@wsdot.
wa.
gov.
Please be sure to reference 23DOT-NWR-80312 in the subject line.