Highway Cleanup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $58,392.00 - $71,136.00 Annually
Location : Cowlitz County - Kelso, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-SWR-40261m
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Southwest Region
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 7/22/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
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 leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking multiple Highway Maintenance Worker 2s to join the Southwest Region maintenance team. Positions are available in both Kelso and Woodland. In these journey-level roles, you will operate a variety of highway maintenance equipment and tools to perform skilled maintenance and repair work on highways and highway structures. Your work will directly support the safe and efficient movement of people and commerce by helping keep transportation infrastructure safe and reliable. These positions may also provide direction to maintenance crews in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 while contributing to a respectful, collaborative, and safety-focused work environment.
What to Expect
The typical schedule is four 10-hour shifts per week. This position requires participation in emergency response, including nights, weekends, holidays, standby, and call-back as needed. Incumbents must be able to report to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call and respond to emergencies in all weather conditions, working independently or as part of a team.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 2 will:

• Operate state vehicles, including CDL-required vehicles and equipment, to perform highway maintenance activities and transport materials, supplies, and equipment between work locations.
• Maintain and repair highways and highway infrastructure by performing asphalt and concrete repairs, drainage maintenance, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail repairs, and other roadway preservation activities.
• Construct and implement Best Management Practices (BMPs), remove hazard trees, maintain landscaped areas, and apply pesticides to support roadway safety and environmental compliance.
• Perform snow and ice response activities, maintain stockpile sites, haul materials, and remove litter, debris, and other roadway hazards to keep highways safe for travel.
• Assist with cleaning and maintaining safety rest areas and safely support illegal encampment cleanup efforts while following established safety procedures for hazardous materials and bloodborne pathogens.
• Inspect, maintain, and perform minor repairs on vehicles, equipment, hand tools, and maintenance facilities to ensure operational readiness.
• Track, document, and report daily work activities, inventory, highway patrol observations, and completed maintenance tasks.
• Lead and train maintenance crews in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 by assigning work, coordinating daily operations, and providing equipment instruction and guidance.

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

• Equipment Operation: Demonstrated ability to safely operate and maintain highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles appropriate to the work performed. Ability to transport equipment and materials safely while following established procedures.
• Traffic Control & Work Zone: Working knowledge of traffic control practices following the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Ability to plan and implement safe work zones, including flagging, signage, and the use of cones/barrels.
• Safety Awareness & Compliance: Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling. Ability to participate in the creation and implementation of Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP) and attend regular safety training.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of leading a crew in the absence of a Highway Maintenance Worker 3, demonstrating sound decision-making and leadership skills.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• Possession of a valid driver's license and either a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with N endorsement or the ability to obtain one within one (1) year of hire.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid First Aid/CPR certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to report in service to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Highway Maintenance: Practical knowledge of highway maintenance practices, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal. Ability to assess maintenance needs and perform repairs to highway structures, roadside features, and landscapes.
• Technical & Administrative Proficiency: Skilled in the use of electronic systems for timekeeping, maintenance tracking, inventory management, and cost estimating (e.g., HATS, WZDB, TSMS). Proficient in standard computer applications, including Microsoft Office and email communication.

In addition to the above, the following is also preferred:

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with N endorsement

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• This position is performed primarily outdoors and frequently adjacent to live traffic in all weather conditions. Work may include elevated heights over land or water, confined spaces, rough or uneven terrain, and active traffic control from stationary or moving platforms. Employees may be exposed to hazardous materials and substances, including herbicides, fuels, solvents, oils, paints, hot asphalt, contaminated materials, discarded needles, and other potentially biohazardous waste while performing maintenance and cleanup activities.
• This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to .
• 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.
• 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 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 Please be sure to reference 26DOT-SWR-40261m 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