Permanent Geotechnical Instrumentation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $72,900.00 - $98,062.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-00137
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/7/2026 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 a Transportation Engineer 2 (TE2) to serve as the Instrumentation Specialist for the Geotech Design & Project Development team. In this role, you will perform geotechnical field instrumentation work in support of the Geotechnical Field Instrumentation Unit's statewide instrumentation program. Under the general direction of the Field Instrumentation Supervisor and daily technical direction of a TE3, this position will independently collect, compile, analyze, plot, and validate geotechnical instrumentation and specialty testing data; install, operate, and maintain field instrumentation and remote data acquisition systems; and perform specialty field testing and assigned investigations. This position will provide statewide field support to geotechnical engineers, engineering geologists, and the WSDOT geophysicist by collecting high-quality field data for engineering interpretation, while ensuring work is completed in accordance with established procedures and applicable American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) testing standards.
What to Expect
This position will require frequent travel (3-5 days per week) to project sites. Fieldwork involves outdoor conditions at construction and survey sites with exposure to weather; uneven, rough, muddy/slippery, and steep terrain. This position may also require occasional overnight travel as needed.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Instrumentation Specialist will:

• Act as a specialist in instrumentation equipment, including digital slope inclinometer probes; pneumatic, electronic, and vibrating wire pressure transducers; and remote miniature video camera and recording systems.
• Assist the TE3 in the design, assembly, programming, deployment, and management of manual and automated remote data acquisition systems, using desktop and field computers.
• Design, implement, and maintain web site(s) for the purpose of displaying collected geotechnical field instrumentation data, charts, and graphs in an internet/intranet environment.
• Work with field exploration crews performing Standard Penetration Test (SPT) Analyzer testing.
• Train field technicians in proper ASTM test procedures and field use of the SPT Analyzer equipment.
• Compile, plot, and validate SPT Analyzer test data for engineering use.
• Perform Cross Hole Sonic Logging (CSL) testing in support of statewide construction projects.
• Perform Downhole Suspension Logging (Shear Wave Velocity) testing in support of statewide project design.

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

• Geotechnical Instrumentation: Knowledge of geotechnical instrumentation equipment, including digital slope inclinometers, pneumatic/electronic/vibrating wire pressure transducers, load cells, strain gauges, settlement sensors, crack meters, and extensometers.
• Remote Data Acquisition Systems: Skills and ability to assist in the design, assembly, programming, and deployment of manual and automated remote data acquisition systems, including dataloggers, modems, and cellular, radio, or landline telemetry equipment.
• Specialty Geotechnical Testing: Ability to perform specialty geotechnical field testing, including SPT Analyzer testing, CSL, and Downhole Suspension Logging (Shear Wave Velocity) and the ability to set up equipment, perform field quality control checks, and adhere to ASTM testing standards.
• Data Management & Analysis: Skills and ability to compile, reduce, plot, and validate geotechnical instrumentation and specialty testing data using specialized software for use by engineering staff.
• Web-Based Data Platforms: Ability to design, implement, and maintain web-based platforms for displaying geotechnical instrumentation data, charts, and graphs in internet/intranet environments.
• Geophysical Field Support: Ability to support geophysical investigations by preparing equipment, performing field testing, documenting field observations, and maintaining data quality throughout the investigation process.
• Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey field data and observations clearly to the engineers and project managers.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to operate and maintain geotechnical instrumentation equipment in the field.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to perform heavy field work in varying outdoor weather conditions including uneven, rough, muddy/slippery, and steep terrain.
• Ability to work at heights or in confined spaces, depending on project requirements.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate/have:

• Computer Programming: Basic understanding of computer programming concepts and at least one programming language.
• Units of Measurement: Understanding of the International System of Units (SI) and English unit systems.
• Mathematics: Basic understanding of geometry, trigonometry, and algebra and their application to technical work.
• Geotechnical Data and GIS Tools: Familiarity with web-based geotechnical data display platforms or GIS tools as used in WSDOT geotechnical programs.

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes

• This position will require frequent travel throughout Washington State (typically 3 to 5 days per week) to conduct field investigations and geophysical surveys at project sites and remote locations.
• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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.
• This position is not eligible for regular remote work options.
• 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
• 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 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.
• 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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-00137 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 ent