• Job Description

  Req#: 5287203
  Salary : $75,045.00 - $100,951.00 Annually
  Location : King County - Seattle - Belltown, WA
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
  Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-04673
  Department: Dept. of Transportation
  Division: Headquarters
  Opening Date: 03/26/2026
  Closing Date: 4/12/2026 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 transportation planning specialist to serve as a Cultural Resources Specialist to support the delivery of some of the state's largest and most complex transportation investments, including the, SR 520 Bridge Replacement, I-405 Corridor, and SR 509 and SR 167 Gateway Programs. In this role, you will provide archaeological monitoring and field support for active projects, serve as a technical specialist on cultural resources compliance, and assist the Megaprograms Cultural Resources Supervisor in fulfilling responsibilities delegated by the Federal Highway Administration in accordance with federal, state, and agency regulations. The successful candidate will also support Washington State Ferries and coordinate with federal partners such as the Federal Transit Administration and Department of Homeland Security to ensure compliance and continuity across programs. Strong candidates will demonstrate expertise in cultural resources regulations, field archaeology practices, technical analysis, and the ability to support complex project delivery in a fast-paced environment.
  What to Expect
  
  This position is required to perform work that is primarily outside on active construction sites as well as indoors in office environments. Exposure to hazards includes those commonly found in office environments, but also includes hazards commonly found on highway construction sites as well as undeveloped field sites.
  Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Cultural Resources Specialist will:
  
  
  • Conduct archaeological monitoring of construction activities in compliance with project commitments and plans.
  • Conduct cultural resources field surveys in accordance with regulatory requirements.
  • Respond to unanticipated discoveries of archaeological resources during work activities.
  • Coordinate with construction teams to track project schedules and to determine adequate and timely field support.
  • Maintain GIS databases of monitoring data.
  • Prepare reports summarizing monitoring and field work activities
  • Research site records and surveys at Dept. of Archaeology & Historic Preservation (DAHP).
  • Record and evaluate cultural resources; identify potential innovations associated with cultural resources.
  • Work with project teams, Megaprograms, and ESO to implement solutions.
  • Support cultural resources identification efforts including cataloging of analyzed artifacts and authoring archaeological site forms, or other recordation tasks.
  • Assist in determining Areas of Potential Effect and the need for in-depth archaeological and/or historical studies.
  • Assist supervisor with reviewing cultural resources consultant work products.
  
  Qualifications
  
  To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
  
  
  • Archaeological Knowledge: Knowledge of Pacific Northwest archaeology, cultural history, and ethnography to ensure compliance during both environmental reviews and project construction. Demonstrated experience conducting archaeological monitoring.
  • Regulatory & Regional Familiarity: Working knowledge of federal, state, and local cultural resources laws and regulations (National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106, Executive Order 21-02. etc.).
  • Research & Analytical Skills/Abilities: Experience researching, evaluating, and drawing conclusions from data to assess impacts to cultural resources; support recommendations with facts and analysis; interpret and apply rules, laws, policies, and procedures.
  • Project Planning & Technical Writing: Experience with procedures to conduct archaeological fieldwork, including survey, testing, and recording. Experience reviewing and producing technical reports. Ability to conduct archival research and to generate information to be compiled into reports and/or plans from sources such as field reviews.
  • Data Stewardship & Analysis: Ability to accurately collect, maintain, organize, and clearly report on environmental, transportation, and planning-related data using appropriate tools, systems, and standards. Ability to calculate basic mathematic functions, such as areas, percentage, add, subtract, multiply, and divide.
  • Organizational & Professional Skills: Ability to perform job functions working in demanding and high stress situations, follow instructions, work independently with minimal supervision, and apply analytical skills to identify issues and propose solutions. Experience scheduling, tracking, and delivering multiple work assignments simultaneously. Determining, establishing, and maintaining effective work methods and schedules, keeping within budget, personnel, and equipment constraints.
  • Collaboration & Relationship Building: Skills to build strong working relationships across internal teams, consultants, contractors, and partner agencies to coordinate work activities and schedules. Proven ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams; guide and influence people without direct line authority, while also working independently as needed.
  • Communication Skills: Advanced skills in professional communication, specifically in communicating technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, by phone, and in person.
  • Technology Proficiency: Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) to support documentation, reporting, and communication needs.
  • Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
  
  The following qualifications are also required:
  
  
  • A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to field visits, construction sites, offsite meetings and various project locations with uneven terrain as required.
  • Maintain 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (current with refresher) or the ability to obtain within 6 months.
  
  It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
  
  
  • Archaeological Proficiency*: Demonstrates proficiency in archaeological field methods, research design, and cultural resource analysis through formal training and applied experience in archaeological investigation. Demonstrates the ability to contribute to cultural resource technical reports and regulatory compliance documentation.
  • Technical Software Proficiency: Skills in ArcGis including basic functions such as the ability to manage simple data sets and generate maps, maintain, and update database systems. Working familiarity with image processing software such as Photoshop.
  
  *To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
  Important Notes
  
  
  • *Archaeological Proficiency is evidenced by the ability to conduct systematic pedestrian survey, shovel testing, and excavation; document stratigraphy, features, and artifacts using accepted professional standards; accurately record field data through notes, mapping, photography, and site forms; process, catalog, and analyze artifacts in a laboratory setting; and apply regional typologies and cultural chronologies to interpret findings.
  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
  • Travel is an expectation of the position. Incumbent may be required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis to participate in meetings, conduct field visits, or attend trainings.
  • 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-04673 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 briefly describe your most recent role conducting archaeological monitoring. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.
  02
  
  Regulatory & Regional Familiarity: Please select the response that best describes your experience applying cultural resources laws and regulations (e.g., NHPA Section 106, state and local requirements).
  • Extensive experience independently leading compliance efforts and coordinating with regulatory agencies
  • Working experience applying regulations with limited supervision
  • Basic understanding of regulations with minimal practical application
  • No relevant experience
  
  03
  
  Research & Analytical: Please select the response that best describes your experience researching and analyzing data to assess impacts to cultural resources.
  • Extensive experience independently conducting analyses and developing well-supported recommendations
  • Moderate experience conducting analysis and contributing to recommendations
  • Limited experience assisting with research and analysis
  • No relevant experience
  
  04
  
  Project Planning & Technical Writing: Please select the response that best describes your experience with archaeological fieldwork and technical report preparation.
  • Extensive experience designing and conducting fieldwork and authoring/reviewing technical reports
  • Moderate experience conducting fieldwork and contributing to reports
  • Basic familiarity with field methods and limited report writing experience
  • No relevant experience
  
  05
  
  Data Stewardship & Analysis: Please select the response that best describes your experience managing and analyzing data related to environmental or planning projects.
  • Extensive experience independently managing datasets, ensuring data integrity, and performing analysis and reporting
  • Moderate experience maintaining and analyzing data with some guidance
  • Basic experience collecting and organizing data
  • No relevant experience
  
  06
  
  Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  07
  
  Are you able and willing to travel to field sites, including uneven terrain, as required?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  08
  
  Do you currently hold a 40-hour HAZWOPER certification?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  09
  
  Archaeological Proficiency: Please select the response that best describes your level of proficiency in archaeological field methods and cultural resource analysis.
  • Advanced proficiency demonstrated through leading investigations and contributing significantly to technical reports
  • Working proficiency with hands-on fieldwork and contributions to reports
  • Basic familiarity through education or limited field experience
  • No relevant experience
  
  10
  
  Technical Software Proficiency: Please select the response that best describes your experience with ArcGIS and related technical software.
  • Advanced experience managing datasets, performing analysis, and producing maps
  • Working experience using ArcGIS for basic mapping and data management
  • Basic familiarity with limited use
  • No relevant experience
  
  11
  
  Do you have experience using image processing software (e.g., Photoshop)?
  • Yes
  • No
  
  12
  
  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
  • 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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