Landscape Architecture-Design Construction Program Lead (TPS3)

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 seekinga Landscape Architecture-Design Construction Program Lead (Transportation Planning Specialist 3) to support the Southwest Region in delivering project-focused, context-sensitive transportation solutions. This position leads both the Roadside Design and Roadside Construction programs, providing technical expertise in landscape architecture and restoration ecology to integrate transportation facilities into the natural and built environment. The role ensures roadside assets are managed effectively while supporting multimodal transportation options and improving environmental outcomes in alignment with permit requirements and agency policies. The incumbent provides guidance on agency standards, procedures, and best practices throughout project development and delivery. Additionally, this position plays a key role in reviewing and ensuring quality control of contract documents and supporting construction program execution.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Landscape Architecture-Design Construction Program Lead will:

• Lead the development, implementation, and management of roadside restoration and irrigation design projects within the Southwest Region and statewide as assigned.
• Conduct environmental reviews and landscape architecture analyses to assess impacts on natural and built environments, including sensitive habitats and native plant communities.
• Recommend design and construction strategies to minimize impacts to protected species, tree canopy, and environmental resources in compliance with policy and regulations.
• Develop, review, and provide quality control for contract documents, including plans, specifications, and estimates using CAD, GIS, and related tools.
• Collaborate with project teams by attending design meetings, providing technical guidance, and supporting project delivery timelines and cost estimates.
• Oversee and evaluate design work from internal staff, consultants, contractors, and external partners to ensure compliance with WSDOT standards and policies.
• Provide subject matter expertise during construction, including inspections, material approvals, habitat installation oversight, and irrigation and vegetation management compliance.
• Conduct field visits and site inspections to deliver recommendations, support construction activities, and ensure environmental and roadside program requirements are met.

Qualifications

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

• Landscape Architecture Knowledge:Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and practical understanding of landscape architectural principles. Able to effectively contribute to multidisciplinary transportation projects by integrating aesthetic, functional, and environmental considerations into the design process.
• Technical Expertise in Landscape Architecture:Demonstrated ability to implement the practice of landscape architecture by applying principles of site analysis, conceptual and technical design, and construction documentation/administration to large-scale, complex environmental restoration projects. Demonstrated ability to synthesize ecological, regulatory, and site-specific constraints into implementable design solutions and support project delivery through applicable phases of development and construction.
• Technology Proficiency:Proficient in operating Windows-based computers and MS Office applications, including Excel, Outlook, Sharepoint, Teams, and skills to analyze data, prepare and generate reports in spreadsheets and databases. Proficient in Computer Aided Design & Drafting (CADD) software, such as MicroStation/OpenRoads or similar platforms (e.g., AutoCAD), with the ability to learn agency-specific systems.
• Communication Skills:Communicates technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, by phone, and in person.
• Collaboration & Adaptability:Ability to work effectively and be flexible working both independently and part of a team environment, prioritizing workload and handling multiple assignments, producing accurate and consistent results.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to the above, the following are also required:

• Current WSDA Pesticide Public Operator License with Right of Way and Aquatic endorsements (or ability to obtain license and endorsements within 12 months of employment).
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

• Erosion and Spill Control Compliance:Experience supporting construction compliance efforts.
• Design and Technical Software Proficiency:Expertise using MicroStation, along with Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Site Grading and Ecological Restoration Design:Expertise in developing complex site grading and restoration plans specific to native ecosystem restoration.
• Contract Development and Cost Estimation:Expertise in developing contract specifications and preparing cost estimates, including estimates for long-term site management activities.
• Construction Inspection and Compliance Oversight:Expertise in conducting construction site inspections related to contract compliance and making recommendations to inspectors related to site deficiencies and proposed solutions.
• Vegetation and Environmental Best Practices:Expertise providing professional recommendations to construction inspectors regarding vegetation protection and impact minimization, soil restoration, soil-bioengineering techniques, irrigation system installation, planting best management practices, and vegetation management.
• Adaptive Management and Vegetation Control:Expertise in reviewing and implementing adaptive management strategies, including weed and pest control.
• Irrigation System Design and Management:Expertise in the design, installation, and operation of irrigation systems.

In addition to the above, the following are also preferred:

• Registration as a Professional Landscape Architect in Washington State.
• Certified Erosion and Spill Control Lead (CESCL)
• ISA Certified Arborist.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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 357-28of 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 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 toState Benefitsfor 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.

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