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!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is seeking a senior-level Operational Technology (OT) Network and Telecommunications specialist to support critical transportation infrastructure systems that keep Washington moving safely and efficiently. This position will provide advanced technical support, administration, security, and lifecycle management of the Northwest Region’s (NWR) OT network infrastructure, including fiber optic, copper, and wireless communication systems that connect Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and roadway operations throughout the region. In a 24/7 operational environment, this role will ensure the reliability, availability, and resilience of communications systems supporting traffic signals, dynamic message signs, ramp meters, tolling corridors, and tunnel life safety systems, including ventilation, fire detection, incident response, and emergency communications. The Network and Telecommunications Senior/Specialist also plays a key role in safeguarding OT environments through proactive network monitoring, vulnerability identification, incident response, and collaboration with regional and statewide technology teams to maintain secure, dependable, and resilient transportation operations.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the IT Network & Telecommunications – Senior/Specialist will:
Procure, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot network equipment and communication infrastructure.
Plan, coordinate, and implement physical and network connectivity for field-based OT environments, including structured cabling and device deployment, in collaboration with operations, maintenance, and vendor partners.
Provide technical support for telecommunications and network systems supporting the NWR.
Troubleshoot and investigate reported issues within OT and ITS networks.
Support network and communications infrastructure and collaborate with infrastructure teams and partners to address technical challenges and provide operational support, as needed.
Travel to field work sites, including ITS hub locations, tunnels, and other facilities, to support the maintenance and repair of NWR network and telecommunications infrastructure, transporting necessary tools and equipment to perform troubleshooting and repair of networking systems.
Support inventory management for maintenance and traffic divisions, including tracking, maintenance, and lifecycle oversight of assets.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
Network & Telecommunications Systems Administration
Extensive experience designing, implementing, maintaining, and supporting enterprise network and telecommunications systems, including network infrastructure, wireless networks, and voice/data communication platforms within transportation or critical infrastructure environments.
Operational Technology (OT) & ITS Expertise
Experience supporting Transportation Systems Management and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), including traffic signals, ramp metering, CCTV and video systems, dynamic message signs, highway advisory radio, and associated communications technologies.
Technical Troubleshooting & Problem Solving
Demonstrated ability to administer, troubleshoot, document, and support network and telecommunications systems, exercise sound judgment, prioritize competing work demands, and independently resolve complex technical issues.
Network Infrastructure & Security
Knowledge of network architecture, wireless technologies, communications systems, and security best practices related to the design, operation, monitoring, and protection of critical network infrastructure.
Technical Installation & Consulting
Experience providing technical consultation and performing installation, configuration, and support of network hardware, telecommunications equipment, and related software systems.
Project Coordination & System Implementation
Experience planning, coordinating, and implementing large-scale network or telecommunications upgrades, migrations, and infrastructure improvements with minimal operational disruption.
Growth Mindset & Service-Oriented:
Takes action to meet the needs of others.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
The following qualifications are also required:
A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
Ability to travel to and from sites, long and short distances, in day and night conditions with varying weather conditions.
Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
Ability to participate in an on-call rotation, including the ability to respond 24 hours a day 7 days a week while on-call.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
Industry Technology Knowledge: Knowledge of Cisco and Palo Alto networking equipment, telecommunications technologies, and WSDOT ITS network design principles and infrastructure standards.
Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with technical teams, stakeholders, partner agencies, and operational staff.
Research & Continuous Improvement: Ability to analyze, evaluate, and research emerging technologies, product trends, system compatibilities, and industry best practices to support operational goals and compliance with applicable standards.
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
This position requires the ability to participate in an on-call rotation, including the ability to respond 24 hours a day 7 days a week while on-call.
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 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 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.
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 State Benefits for more information.
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?
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 [email protected]. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NWR-13480e in the subject line.
Contact Person: Location: • Shoreline, WA Application Method:Apply Online Base Pay:$97,398.00 - $130,989.00 Annually
