Plans, Specifications & Estimate (PS&E) Support Specialist – Transportation Engineer 3 (In-Training)

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a highly motivated individual with demonstrated technical and analytical experience to fill the Plans, Specifications & Estimate (PS&E) Support Specialist – Transportation Engineer 3 (In-Training) vacant position in Olympia, WA. This position provides technical assistance to users of computer programs and software and software packages associated with Plans, Specifications & Estimate development and project estimating during the development of a project. This position will assess training needs, determine training approach, develop course materials and present training to end users. This position also administers the necessary programs used by region engineers, and serves as technical specialist for the development and implementation of specialized statewide applications and cost estimating.
 
*Note: This position has an in-training plan that can be filled at either the Transportation Engineer 2 or Transportation Engineer 3 level. The salaries for each position are:
                                   
Transportation Engineer 2 - $55,476 - $74,604 annually, depending on qualifications.
Transportation Engineer 3 - $61,212 - $82,344 annually, depending on qualifications.
 
At WSDOT, 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 perspectives while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. To learn more, please watch the following video: Why WSDOT?
 
This position will perform the following work:

• Serves as technical staff specialist and provides technical assistance to users of E-Base, Bid Tabs Pro, Wage Rates, Q-Tabs, Structure Notes and Sign Specification computer programs.
• Assesses training needs, determines training approach and develops course materials. Provides training and support to HQ, Region, Consultant and Local Agency staff regarding the uses and applications of supported technology products.
• Provides estimating support to Regions and project offices. Performs quality control reviews of regional plans, specifications and estimates and provides feedback for individual projects. Researches and provides guidance for new estimating software applications. Monitors federal and state wage rate changes, providing consistent communication to staff statewide regarding current wage rates and related issues.
• Performs research, evaluation, testing and maintenance of information system products including product upgrades for compatibility with existing software and programs. Works with programmers and programs to integrate new programs and software updates and insures successful implementation statewide. Provides coordination with Information Systems (IT) during testing, evaluating and implementing programs and software affecting WSDOT Design operations.
• Emergent projects, and other duties, as assigned.

 
An ideal candidate for this position will have:
Knowledge of:

• Engineering design and highway construction policies and practices, and experience in the Interpretation of these policies.
• Data analysis methods and tools using statistical methods In Excel.
• Data retrieval systems, such as Cognos, Datamart, and other relevant databases related to project development.
• WSDOT PS&E development, E-BASE, Bid Tabs Pro, and QTABS systems.
• Transportation project development from planning through construction.

Skills in:

• Using Microsoft Office products for analysis, presentation and publication.
• Preparing project schedules and estimates.
• Written, graphical, verbal communication of technical material.
• Effectively interacting with clients, customers, suppliers, and co-workers.
• Preparing and delivering presentation for technical and non-technical audiences.

Ability to:

• Travel to meetings and workshops both off and on-site by car or air with occasional overnight stays.
• Conduct quality reviews of other's work and provide constructive feedback.
• Use systems knowledge to analyze current and upcoming needs of clients and anticipate the need for applications enhancements.
• Use personal computers, telephone, email and the Internet to communicate about technical topics
• Review and interpret studies and reports.
• Prepare and present technical Information to diverse audiences.
• Work collaboratively with project teams, consultants and subject matter experts.
• Prepare and present technical information to diverse audiences.
• Work harmoniously with staff, customers, and subject matter experts.

 
Note: This position is covered by a union shop provision. Therefore, as a condition of employment, you are required to become a member of the PTE, Local 17, or arrange to pay that union a representational fee. The union shop requirement shall be effective on the first day of the month following the employee's initial 30 days in this classification.

The Washington State Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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.