Transportation Engineer Intern | State Geotechnical Office

Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented intern to join the Engineering Geology Section within the State Geotechnical Office. This is a unique opportunity for currently enrolled students or recent graduates who want to observe and participate in real world application of their field. The position will support statewide geotechnical design, construction support, geotechnical asset inventorying and assessment, and unstable slope inventorying and assessment through a combination of field and office work.

The intern will assist with research, data collection and organization, GIS mapping, field assessments, technical documentation, and reporting activities that support transportation projects across the state.

This position, located in Tumwater, will work within the Unstable Slopes Management program, performing field and office work related to unstable slope and geotechnical asset inventory, assessment, and scoping on a statewide basis. The intern will perform field work outdoors, generally on or near a roadway. This work may be performed in inclement weather during daytime or nighttime hours. Exposure hazards include hot, cold and windy weather;

high-speed traffic; wildland fire smoke, vehicle exhaust and dust; traversing steep or uneven terrain; unstable slopes; loud noise; and construction equipment.

• Research, collect and organize information from WSDOT databases, geotechnical design reports, and as-built construction documents.
• Compile information into organized files and prepare various maps using GIS.
• Participate in conducting field inventories and performing condition assessments.
• Document findings using handwritten notes and drawings, electronic tablets, GPS, cameras and drones; enter field information into databases.
• Assist with statewide geotechnical design and construction-support work related to unstable slopes, fish passages, and other transportation projects.
• Assist members of the Engineering Geology Section with various field and analytic tasks.

• Education Eligibility: Currently enrolled with at least three years of completion or recent graduate from an undergraduate degree program in Geological Sciences, Engineering Geology or a closely related field that includes coursework in Geologic Field Mapping; or currently enrolled or recently graduated from a master's program in a related field.
• Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Teamwork &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Ability to work effectively with others.
• Attention to Detail: Skilled at ensuring accuracy and quality in work products.
• Time Management & Organization: Skills and ability to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks within deadlines.
• Technology & Software: Skills to apply relevant software tools to support geotechnical design reporting.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Valid Driver's License: Ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to travel overnight and work outside in adverse conditions.

• Professional Certification: Washington State Geologist-In-Training (GIT) certification.
• Field Geology Methods: Strong background in field geology methods, including observations, data collection, mapping, and documentation techniques.
• GIS & Mapping Applications: Proficiency using GIS and mapping applications to collect, analyze, and present data.
• Engineering Geology Knowledge: Coursework in engineering geology, and/or engineering.

• Work-Life Balance
• Paid Leave – 12 paid holidays and up to 25 paid vacation days per year.
• Tuition Assistance – Tuition reimbursement programs and other assistance options.
• Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare options and retirement programs.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process may contact the listed recruiter.

Rachel.

Giese.gov, reference 26

DOT-HQ-05589i.