Bridge Maintenance Specialist 2

State of Washington
Yakima, WA




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 seeking a journey-level Bridge Maintenance Specialist to join the Tri-Region Bridge Crew based in Union Gap, WA. In this role, you will perform a variety of hands-on maintenance and repair tasks to ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of bridges and structures across the region. As a valued member of a 6-8 person team, you will conduct inspections, perform preventative maintenance, complete general repairs, and operate a range of specialized equipment including Under Bridge Inspection Trucks (UBITS), manlifts, vactors, and Class A and B vehicles. Working on the Bridge Crew requires responsible, safety-minded individuals to perform skilled trades work and operate highway equipment and tools. This opportunity is perfect for anyone who enjoys working with their hands, knowing their work is done on roadways and in a variety of weather conditions.


What to Expect

Work is performed primarily outdoors on highway bridges and structures, often at elevated heights exceeding 100 feet and in all weather conditions. This role requires working in confined spaces, over land or water, and on rough or uneven terrain while using appropriate safety equipment and fall protection. The schedule typically consists of four 10-hour days, with travel throughout Eastern Washington. The position also requires the ability to respond to emergency call-outs and work alternate or extended hours as needed, including nights, weekends, and holidays.


Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Bridge Maintenance Specialist 2 will:

  • Perform preservation, maintenance, and repair activities on bridge components, including expansion joints, abutments, guardrail systems, pedestrian walkways, concrete decks, and structural elements.
  • Conduct preventative maintenance by cleaning and flushing expansion joints and drainage systems, applying deck sealing and waterproofing, and performing surface preparation and spot painting.
  • Clean steel and concrete bridges by removing debris, vegetation, and contaminants from decks, joints, drainage systems, and structural members.
  • Use appropriate tools, equipment, and approved methods to maintain drainage, prevent deterioration, and support long-term bridge performance.
  • Develop and implement traffic control plans and establish safe work zones using signage, cones, barriers, and flagging in accordance with WSDOT standards.
  • Participate in the safety program by preparing Pre-Activity Safety Plans (PASP), attending safety meetings, identifying hazards, and following safety policies.
  • Perform bridge inspections, apply Best Management Practices (BMPs), and document work activities using systems such as HATS and DOT Time.
  • Support other highway maintenance activities, including striping and pavement marking, installing roadway markers, snow and ice operations, and facility maintenance.


Qualifications

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

  • Bridge and Roadway Maintenance:Demonstrated ability to perform routine and emergency maintenance on highway bridges which included carpentry, concrete, steel fabrication, heavy equipment electrical operations, or millwright experience and related infrastructures, using appropriate tools, methods and safety practices.
  • Heavy Equipment Operation:Skilled in operating and maintaining heavy equipment Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 10,000-54,000 (e.g. graders, plows, loaders, excavators) commonly used in highway construction.
  • 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 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:Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of leading a crew in the absence of a Bridge Specialist Lead, demonstrating sound decision-making and leadership skills.
  • Growth Mindset:Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented:Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

In addition, the following are also required:
  • A valid driver’s license with the ability to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with N endorsement within six (6) months of appointment.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification.
  • The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire.
  • The ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by.
  • The ability to relocate tools, equipment, and materials weighing up to 75 pounds from one location to another safely.
  • The ability to climb ladders and work at heights exceeding 100 feet, over land or water.
  • The ability to perform duties outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
  • The ability to travel within Eastern Washington to work sites.


It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Tool Proficiency: Proficiently operate small hand tools and equipment for carpentry, metal, wood, and concrete repairs.

Important Notes

  • Travel is expected for this position. Bridge projects related to this position are anywhere in Eastern Washington and travel to the worksite during the work week is a requirement.
  • This position is 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 applicableCollective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found inChapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go toDOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visitwww.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.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees mayearn 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.
  • PlanFor 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 State Benefits for more information.


Check out this video to learn more:Why WSDOT?


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 visitwww.uscis.gov.


Contact Us

For inquiries aboutthis posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter atDaisha.Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference26DOT-SCR-51051in the subject line.

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