Assistant Bituminous Materials Engineer

Salary : $87,048.00 - $117,120.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-00696
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 01/27/2026
Closing Date: 2/11/2026 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 manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation
The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a Transportation Engineer 4 to serve as an Assistant Bituminous Materials Engineer and support the supervision and daily operations of the Bituminous Materials Section at the State Materials Laboratory, including the Bituminous Mixtures, Liquid Asphalt, and Nuclear Electronics Laboratories. In this role, you will assist with staff oversight, laboratory operations, equipment management, accreditation compliance, and provides onsite technical leadership to ensure all testing is performed in accordance with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), Western Alliance for Quality Transportation Construction (WAQTC), and WSDOT standards. This position will serve as a subject matter expert for bituminous materials, including Hot Mix Asphalt mix designs, Performance Graded binders, and emulsified asphalts. Our top candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise, leadership and mentoring skills, effective problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to manage laboratory operations, equipment, and quality assurance in a highly regulated environment.
What to Expect

The Bituminous Materials Section is part of the Construction Division State Materials Laboratory which provides materials testing, technical support and technology development for bituminous materials used by all Regions in the WSDOT construction program.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Assistant Bituminous Materials Engineer will:

• Assist with supervision of the Bituminous Materials Section to ensure accurate, timely testing of materials and provide accurate test reports of materials in support of the WSDOT construction program.
• Ensure that AASHTO resource materials proficiency samples are tested and reported out in an accurate and timely manner.
• Assist with development of yearly and biennial budgets including FTE allocation, overtime, laboratory supplies, testing equipment maintenance and replacement costs, purchasing of new technology and testing equipment.
• Communicate with laboratory supervisors on Direct Project Support (DPS) and Direct Project Charges (DPC) issues.
• Report onsite, to the State Materials Laboratory to provide troubleshooting on laboratory testing issues, assist staff with materials samples and testing procedures, and ensure adherence to established standards.
• Review test results prepared by employees for completeness, accuracy, and conformance to the standard test procedures.
• Prepare test reports and communicate results with project offices and other customers.
• Assume duties of the Bituminous Materials Engineer that can be delegated in their absence.
• Actively participate in meetings and task groups with representatives from asphalt and asphalt paving industries to review and discuss changes to current design, testing, and methods of constructing pavements.

Qualifications

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

• Bituminous Materials Technical Expertise: Knowledge of the theories, principles, and practices related to bituminous materials testing and construction methods.
• Supervisory and People Management Skills: Ability to effectively supervise staff, including coaching, training, mentoring, administering corrective action, and conducting ongoing performance evaluations.
• Communication and Decision-Making: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively to support scheduling and planning activities, deliver presentations and training, and make and implement sound decisions.
• Research and Standards Development: Ability to perform research and develop, evaluate, and implement new or revised materials standards.
• Engineering Document Interpretation: Ability to read, interpret, and apply contract plans, special provisions, standard specifications, standard plans, and other engineering documents, with an understanding of both short- and long-term engineering implications of current and proposed standards.
• 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 have:

• Materials Testing and Evaluation Expertise: Demonstrated experience performing materials testing and evaluation of construction materials.
• Laboratory Supervision and Management: Experience supervising personnel involved in materials testing and managing the operations of a materials testing laboratory.
• Advanced Bituminous Materials Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of bituminous materials, including the ability to independently research, analyze, and apply findings to testing practices and standards.

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

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.

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

• Work for this position is generally performed in an office setting with occasional site, plant, and field visits.
• This position offers infrequent ad-hoc remote work options.
• 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.
• 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, 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.
• 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; 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-00696 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 entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026
01

Bituminous Materials Technical Expertise: Please select the response that best describes your knowledge and application of Bituminous materials testing and construction practices.

• Advanced expert knowledge; routinely lead, oversee, and resolve complex testing issues and apply standards independently
• Strong working knowledge; regularly perform and interpret testing and construction practices
• Basic knowledge; limited hands-on experience under guidance
• Introductory knowledge only
• No experience

02

Please briefly describe how you obtained your knowledge of and/or experience with Bituminous Materials testing and construction practices. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
03

Supervisory and People Management Skills: Please select the response that best describes your experience supervising staff.

• Independently supervise staff, including coaching, corrective action, and performance evaluations
• Supervise staff with guidance from senior leadership
• Lead or mentor staff without formal supervisory authority
• Limited exposure to supervising others
• No supervisory experience

04

Please briefly describe your experience supervising staff. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
05

Research and Standards Development: Please select the response that best describes your experience researching and developing materials standards.

• Lead research efforts and develop, implement, and revise standards independently
• Participate in research and contribute to standards development
• Apply existing standards with limited research involvement
• Familiar with standards but no research experience
• No experience

06

Engineering Document Interpretation: Please select the response that best describes your experience interpreting engineering documents (plans, specifications, provisions).

• Independently interpret and apply documents, including assessing short- and long-term engineering impacts
• Regularly interpret documents with some oversight
• Limited experience reviewing documents with guidance
• Familiarity only; minimal practical application
• No experience

07

Materials Testing and Evaluation Expertise: Please select the response that best describes your experience performing materials testing and evaluation.

• Extensive hands-on experience independently conducting and evaluating tests
• Regular hands-on experience with some oversight
• Limited testing experience
• Familiarity with testing concepts only
• No experience

08

Please briefly describe your experience performing materials testing and evaluations to include materials tested. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
09

Laboratory Supervision and Management: Please select the response that best describes your experience managing a materials testing laboratory.

• Independently manage laboratory operations and supervise staff
• Assist in managing laboratory operations or staff
• Work within a laboratory without supervisory responsibilities
• Limited exposure to laboratory environments
• No experience

10

Advanced Bituminous Materials Knowledge: Please select the response that best describes your expertise in bituminous materials.

• Advanced expert; independently research, analyze, and apply findings to improve testing and standards
• Strong working knowledge with some research involvement
• General working knowledge with limited research
• Introductory knowledge only
• No experience

11

Do you have a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

12

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

13

If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question

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