Traffic Safety Systems Operator

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 to fill a non-permanent Traffic Safety Systems Operator 3 position in Spokane, WA. This position is located within a multi-jurisdictional, 24-hour Traffic Management Center (TMC), monitoring roadway conditions and traffic operations, identifying incidents and potential system issues, and coordinating timely responses. The incumbent operates and monitors Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices, including variable message signs and highway advisory radio, and communicates real-time information to internal staff, partner agencies, emergency responders, and the traveling public.

These efforts support safe and efficient travel, reduce congestion, and facilitate coordinated responses to routine and emergency incidents.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Monitor and operate closed-circuit television feeds, traffic signals and detectors, variable message signs, ramp meter systems, and highway advisory radios to assess roadway conditions and traffic operations.
• Verify and report traffic incidents, equipment outages, and system malfunctions, including collisions, disabled vehicles, traffic hazards, fires, and property damage.
• Coordinate routine and emergency responses with Incident Response Teams, field personnel, and partner agencies, following events through completion of required tasks.
• Communicate time-sensitive traffic and incident information to WSDOT staff, law enforcement, emergency responders, partner agencies, and the public via telephone, two-way radio, and email.
• Maintain accurate computer entries, incident logs, files, and documentation to support timely response, information sharing, and operational continuity.
• Monitor regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) devices and communications systems to ensure proper operation and the transmission of accurate, timely information.
• Notify appropriate technicians and managers of equipment malfunctions or outages and evaluate new or modified equipment and software and identify and report any issues.

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

• Dispatch & Operations Coordination: Experience in dispatching, operating two-way, multi-channel emergency radio operations, or a similar operations environment involving real-time communication and information coordination.

• Customer Service: Provides accurate and timely information to meet the needs of internal and external customers, including the traveling public, partner agencies, and field personnel.
• Interagency Coordination: Demonstrates the ability to effectively coordinate information and operational responses across multiple agencies or jurisdictions.
• Communication Skill: Effectively communicates clearly and concisely using radio, telephone, and electronic systems in high-pressure situations. Accurately relays critical information to diverse audiences, including emergency responders and the public.
• Situational Awareness & Decision-Making: Monitors multiple information sources simultaneously and evaluates conditions to identify incidents, hazards, or system issues. Exercises sound judgment to prioritize and…