Maintenance Specialist 3 - Signs

Salary : $61,644.00 - $71,472.00 Annually Location : Kitsap County - Port Orchard, WA Job Type: Full Time - Permanent Job Number: 26DOT-OR-32505e Department: Dept. of Transportation Division: Olympic Region Opening Date: 02/12/2026 Closing Date: 3/1/2026 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 currently seeking a Maintenance Specialist 3 to join the Olympic Region (OR) Maintenance & Operations Organization. Under the direction of a Highway Maintenance Supervisor, the Maintenance Specialist 3 is the senior specialist responsible for the maintenance, repair, and installation of highway signage for the OR Area 2 Sign Crew. This position may lead journey-level Maintenance Specialists and train entry and journey-level Highway Maintenance Workers to assist in the maintenance, repair, and installation of highway signage. Additionally, this position is expected to perform a variety of skilled maintenance tasks throughout assigned highways and roadways. The safety of the public and fellow employees is a top priority and must be considered in every decision and activity. This position contributes to the agency's strategic plan by ensuring, through adherence to WSDOT policies, that work functions performed are administered to the expected quality, safety, and stewardship standards to support Washington's long-term resilience. This position is expected to contribute to a workplace that fosters a culture of respect, equal opportunity, and a sense of belonging. What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Maintenance Specialist 3 will: Prioritize, plan, schedule, and budget sign maintenance activities to accomplish the work. Read and interpret plans, blueprints, and sketches. Lead, schedule, and direct highway sign maintenance activities Assemble, install, and replace signs, sign components, and signposts, using a variety of equipment and tools such as hand diggers, portable power augers, pavement breakers, ladder trucks and hydraulic boom trucks with attached auger; this includes installation of overhead signs. Asphalt and concrete pavement maintenance and repair utilizing trucks, rollers, mechanical sweepers, and hand tools; apply concrete, asphalt, and synthetic materials. Lead and perform snow and ice control, to include application of anti-icing compounds to road surface with truck mounted equipment, load trucks from stockpiles or pits. Assist with traffic control on emergency operations and assists crews in setting up and performing traffic control during emergency operations. Assist in the safe cleanup and removal of unlawful dwellings. The standard schedule is 4, 10-hour shifts, Monday through Friday; weekends and holidays may be required to respond to non-scheduled call-out emergencies. May require working long hours, including nights. Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required: Highway Sign Installation & Maintenance Experience: Experience and/or demonstrated skills to install, fabricate, and maintain highway signs and sign structures, including ground-mounted and overhead signs. Proven ability to operate hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment to set posts, pour concrete foundations, mount sign panels, and apply roadway markings. Sign Maintenance Planning and Leadership: Ability to plan, prioritize, schedule, and budget highway sign maintenance activities to ensure timely completion of work; lead and direct sign maintenance operations on state highways; train and support staff to perform sign maintenance and operational tasks to maintain continuity during absences; and manage multiple assignments effectively in a dynamic work environment. Highway Maintenance Knowledge: Knowledge of highway maintenance practices, including pavement repair, drainage systems, erosion control, vegetation management, sign and guardrail installation, debris removal, and snow and ice control. Equipment Operation: Ability to operate and maintain various Class A, B, and C highway maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles following WSDOT standards. Traffic Control & Work Zone Operations: Knowledge and/or experience 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: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. 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: Possession of an unrestricted Class A CDL with N endorsement to legally operate vehicles in Washington State. Possession of an NCCCO Digger Derrick Operator Certification; or obtain within six (6) months of hire, depending on class availability. The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire. The ability to obtain a valid First Aid/CPR Certification within six (6) months of hire. Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to perform work at ground level, in confined spaces, and at elevated heights (above 25 feet over land or water). Ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, individually or part of a team. Ability to report in service to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call. It is preferred that qualified candidates also have: Equipment Operation & Transportation: Ability to safely operate and transport equipment, including vehicles up to 26,000 GVW, in support of maintenance and operational activities. Plans Reading & Interpretation: Ability to read, interpret, and apply construction or maintenance plans. Important Notes This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. This position is not eligible for remote work. Travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis. Regular travel to and from highway locations is necessary. Overnight travel is required. 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 (FMSCA). For more information, please go to 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 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 . Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32505e 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 Please select the option that best describes your experience with highway sign installation and maintenance, including ground-mounted and overhead signs. No Experience: I have no experience installing, fabricating, or maintaining highway signs or sign structures. Limited Experience: I have assisted with basic highway sign installation or maintenance tasks under close supervision. My experience may include using basic hand tools or helping set posts or mount sign panels. Working Knowledge: I have independently performed routine highway sign installation and maintenance. My experience includes setting posts, mounting sign panels, and using hand and power tools. I am familiar with basic concrete work and standard safety practices. Advanced Experience: I regularly install, fabricate, and maintain ground-mounted and some overhead sign structures. I operate specialized equipment, set posts, pour concrete foundations, apply roadway markings, and ensure work meets applicable standards with minimal supervision. Expert: I am highly experienced in all aspects of highway sign installation and maintenance, including complex ground-mounted and overhead structures. I independently plan and execute installations, operate specialized equipment, ensure compliance with standards and safety requirements, and may train or lead others in sign fabrication and installation. 02 Briefly describe how you gained your experience with highway sign installation and maintenance, including ground-mounted and overhead signs. If you do not have this experience, type N/A. 03 Please select the option that best describes your experience with planning and leading highway sign maintenance operations. No Experience: I have no experience planning, scheduling, budgeting, or leading highway sign maintenance activities. Limited Experience: I have assisted with scheduling or coordinating sign maintenance work and may have provided informal guidance to others, but I have not been responsible for planning or leading operations. Working Knowledge: I have planned and prioritized routine sign maintenance activities and coordinated work assignments. I have provided direction to staff and helped ensure work was completed on time, but with oversight from a supervisor. Advanced Experience: I independently plan, schedule, and prioritize highway sign maintenance operations. I lead and direct crews, manage multiple assignments, monitor budgets or resource use, and ensure continuity of operations during staff absences. Expert: I am highly experienced in managing and leading comprehensive highway sign maintenance programs. I develop work plans and budgets, allocate resources, set priorities, oversee multiple crews or complex operations, train and mentor staff, and ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with agency standards in a dynamic environment. 04 Briefly describe how you gained experience with planning and leading highway sign maintenance operations. If you do not have this experience, type N/A. 05 What type of driver's license do you currently possess? Class A CDL Class B CDL CDL Learners Permit Standard driver's license None of the above 06 Please provide your driver's license number, list your endorsements, and any restrictions: 07 Select all you have obtained: NCCCO Digger Derrick Operator Certification Traffic Control/Flagging card First Aid/CPR Certification None of the above 08 Do you have the ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds? Yes No 09 Do you have the ability to perform work at ground level, in confined spaces, and at elevated heights (above 25 feet over land or water)? Yes No 10 Do you have the ability to respond to emergency situations in all weather conditions, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, individually or part of a team? Yes No 11 Do you have the ability to report in service to the assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call? Yes No 12 Do you have experience safely operating and transporting equipment, including vehicles up to 26,000 GVW? Yes No 13 Do you have experience reading, interpreting, and applying construction or maintenance plans? Yes No 14 How did you learn of this employment opportunity? Indeed LinkedIn Direct Email Notification WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc) Career Fair Monster WorkSource Handshake AASHTO NACTO COMTO APWA "NOW HIRING" banner/sign Radio advertisement WSDOT Employment Site Other (specify below) 15 If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided: Required Question

Created: 2026-03-04