Bituminous Mixtures Technician In-Training | Two Positions

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 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 seeking two Transportation Technicians to support the Bituminous Section within the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory, providing critical services for statewide capital construction projects and local jurisdictions through bituminous mixture design verification, conformance, and forensic testing. In these roles, you will perform complex laboratory testing, prepare and analyze test samples, and ensure accurate reduction and documentation of data, while also assisting the Bituminous Testing Engineer with equipment calibration, maintenance, and recordkeeping to maintain compliance with established standards.

Strong candidates will demonstrate technical proficiency in materials testing, data accuracy, familiarity with laboratory equipment and calibration processes, and the ability to interpret and document complex test results.

These positions perform materials testing duties in a laboratory environment which may include exposure to chemicals, elevated temperatures, working with materials exceeding 325 degrees F, and working with various chemicals. This position requires ability to stand for long periods of time, walk long distances and work under time constraints using timers, stopwatches, etc.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within these roles, the Bituminous Mixtures Technicians will:

• Be responsible for performing complex bituminous mixture testing.
• Prepare Qualified Product List (QPL) asphalt mixtures which incorporate volumetric design of asphalt mixtures as well as all other asphalt mixture design types as requested.
• Perform all test methods assigned to the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory.
• Assist the Bituminous Testing Engineer in maintaining equipment calibrations, verifications, maintenance, and associated records.
• Be responsible for testing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Samples and participation in AASHTO re:source onsite inspections.
• Operate a personal computer using a variety of software programs.
• Troubleshoot and run diagnostic tests, input data into several specialized software programs for several highly specialized pieces of testing equipment.
• Assist the Bituminous Mixtures Engineer with daily laboratory operations, including scheduling, training, instruction, and inspecting the work of Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory staff.

These are Transportation Technician 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.

To be considered for these opportunities, the following competencies are required:

• Technical Materials Testing:Experience performing complex laboratory testing, utilizing data acquisition systems and laboratory software, maintaining and calibrating equipment, and supporting or leading technical work in a laboratory setting.
• Materials Testing & Analysis:Demonstrated knowledge of materials testing principles and practices, including physical and mechanical testing of bituminous or comparable materials, with the ability to conduct complex tests using precision instruments and interpret results to evaluate material performance.
• Quality Assurance & Laboratory Standards:Knowledge of quality assurance and control methodologies, laboratory safety practices, and technical documentation standards, with the ability to ensure compliance, maintain accurate records, and support quality reviews and audits.
• Safety & Work Environment Adaptability:Ability to work safely in a…