Road Sign Maintenance Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $52,872.00 - $71,136.00 Annually
Location : Whatcom County - Bellingham, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-NWR-10536em
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Northwest Region
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/9/2026 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 three Highway Maintenance Workers (HMW2) to support Northwest Region in Bellingham, WA. The selected candidates will assist with the maintenance and repair of state highways and highway structures to ensure the safety of the traveling public. These journey-level positions serve as members of the regional maintenance organization and perform asphalt and concrete maintenance, traffic control, repair and installation of guardrail and signs, as well as culvert and drainage maintenance. Working in the maintenance area requires responsible, safety-minded individuals to perform a variety of skilled labor tasks and operate highway equipment and tools. This work is performed in the field on active roadways and in a variety of weather conditions.
What to Expect
These positions perform work that is often physical in nature, primarily outdoors, and often next to high-volume, high-speed traffic that may require standing for extended periods of time. HMW2s may work at elevated heights above 25 feet over land or water. Work may also include traversing in rough, steep, and uneven terrain. A typical schedule is 40-hours per week for four (4) 10-hour shifts. Nights, weekends, and holidays may also be required to respond to emergency situations.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Operate Class A, B, and C highway equipment for highway maintenance.
• Perform general roadway maintenance and repair activities such as:
  • Asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance and repair.
  • Drainage maintenance, including catch basins, sedimentation facilities, and ditches.
  • Erosion and slide repair.
  • Sign maintenance and repair.
• Perform vegetation control, including mowing, pesticide application, and establishing, maintaining, and repairing landscaped areas.
• Remove highway debris, including danger tree removal, and actively participate in the development and implementation of Pre Activity Safety Plans.
• Perform snow and ice removal, which includes operating dump trucks and sanders, as well as hauling sand and gravel.
• Design and set-up of traffic control, which includes manually flagging traffic or signing for lane closures and operating attenuator/buffer truck.
• Perform maintenance and minor repair on equipment and hand tools including sharpening power saws and chains, washing vehicles, and greasing tools and equipment, etc.
• Respond to non-scheduled emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications
These are Highway Maintenance Worker 2 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill these positions at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
To be considered for the Highway Maintenance Worker 1 level, the following is required:

• Basic Highway Maintenance Skills: Basic understanding of highway maintenance tasks such as pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal.
• Licensing: Obtain an unrestricted Class A CDL with "N" endorsement without air brake restriction & valid medical card to legally operate vehicles in Washington State within 12 months of hire.

To be considered for the Highway Maintenance Worker 2 level, the following is required:

• Highway Maintenance Expertise: Demonstrated skills in highway maintenance practices, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, and debris removal.
• Licensing: Possess an unrestricted Class A CDL with "N" endorsement without air brake restriction & valid medical card to legally operate vehicles in Washington State.

The following qualifications are also required at any level:

• Ability to obtain a Washington State Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to traverse steep, rough, and uneven terrain and work at heights above 25 feet over land or water in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond to emergency call outs, work other scheduled shifts, and/or extended shifts on short notice (days, nights, and weekends), and perform standby duty.
• Ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 45 minutes of an after-hours call.
• Equipment Operation: Ability to operate and maintain various Class A, B, and C highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles following WSDOT standards. Ability to safely transport heavy equipment and materials between job sites.
• Traffic Control & Work Zone Operations: 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.
• 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.
• Teamwork & Leadership: 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.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Valid Washington State Traffic Control/Flagging card with experience performing traffic control per MUTCD including planning, setting signs and cones or barrels, and flagging.
• Washington State Pesticide Applicator's License.
• Backflow Prevention Tester Certification.
• Crane Certification.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• These positions are not eligible for remote work.
• 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 subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to
• These are Highway Maintenance Worker 2 positions. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill these positions at a lower level in the based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:
  1. Highway Maintenance Worker 2: $58,392 - $71,136
  2. Highway Maintenance Worker 1: $52,872 - $64,512
• 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 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.
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-NWR-10536em 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.
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