Highway Maintenance Worker

Highway Maintenance Worker 1

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!

WSDOT is currently seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 1 to provide year-round maintenance and operational support at the Ryegrass Rest Area on Interstate 90. In this role, you will help ensure the rest area remains safe, clean, and welcoming for the traveling public by performing janitorial duties, grounds maintenance, and minor facility repairs. This position plays an important role in maintaining safe, accessible restroom facilities and well-kept public spaces.

The work performed directly supports WSDOT's mission of keeping people and goods moving safely and efficiently across Washington's transportation system.

The typical schedule consists of four 10-hour shifts per week; however, work schedules may vary based on operational needs. This position supports year-round operations, including weekends and holidays, and requires flexibility to work alternate or emergency shifts and respond to occasional call-outs as needed.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Worker 1 will:

• Clean and disinfect restrooms by maintaining toilets, sinks, urinals, floors, walls, fixtures, drains, and dispensers to ensure facilities remain safe, sanitary, and fully operational.
• Maintain restroom buildings by replacing air filters and light bulbs, cleaning vents, removing graffiti, collecting water samples, and monitoring supply inventory.
• Perform exterior cleaning by collecting litter, emptying trash and ash receptacles, cleaning picnic areas, walkways, RV dump stations, buildings, and other public-use facilities.
• Remove snow and ice from parking areas, sidewalks, entrances, and other pedestrian areas using plows, snowblowers, shovels, and deicing materials to maintain safe access during winter conditions.
• Repair and replace minor plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and building components, including faucets, fixtures, dispensers, doors, signs, lighting, and heating system components.
• Maintain landscaped grounds by mowing, edging, pruning, controlling weeds, repairing irrigation systems, and keeping sidewalks and grounds free of debris.
• Respond to vandalism by removing graffiti, repairing damaged facilities, and safely handling hazardous materials and biohazardous waste using appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Support daily operations by assisting the traveling public, opening and closing rest areas, attending training and safety meetings, and providing coverage at other rest areas as needed.

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

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.
• Ability to interpret Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the proper mixing and handling of chemicals.

Teamwork:

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field. Capable of working independently or with a team. Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.

Growth Mindset & Service-Oriented:

• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

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

• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid First Aid/CPR certification within six (6) months of hire.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Maintenance Operations:
  Ability to perform routine maintenance activities in a facilities, grounds, custodial, or related maintenance environment.
• Tool & Equipment Operation:
  Ability to safely use and maintain basic hand tools and powered equipment to complete maintenance and repair tasks.

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs. The salary range listed includes the 2% general wage increase, effective on July 1, 2026. This position is not eligible for remote work. This position is performed primarily outdoors and within safety rest area facilities in all weather conditions. Work may include confined spaces, uneven…