Air Quality & Acoustics Specialist (TPS3, In-Training)

About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 
 
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 (In-Training) to serve as the Air Quality and Acoustics Specialist in Shoreline, WA. This unique statewide position is critical in fostering a respectful and healthy work environment with focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a diverse group of environmental specialists, we promote and facilitate an environmentally responsible transportation program. In order to achieve the goals of the mission statement, the Transportation Planning Specialist 3 shall perform the following functions: Independently and collaboratively as a team member conduct planning assignments involving multiple transportation modes and problem areas within the Air Quality and Acoustical disciplines related to transportation projects. Work assignments will include, but are not limited to, acoustics and air quality related environmental analysis, research, permitting, and community outreach throughout WSDOT statewide.
Note: This position includes an approved in-training plan; therefore, it may be filled at the Transportation Planning Specialist 2 or 3 level. The salaries for these classifications are as follows:
 
Transportation Planning Specialist 2: $64,108 - $86,158 annually depending on qualifications.
Transportation Planning Specialist 3: $70,749 - $95,155 annually depending on qualifications.
 
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, Air Quality and Acoustics Specialist will:

• Independently assess and apply air quality and acoustical related regulations, policies, and guidance to transportation projects while meeting the mission and goals of WSDOT.
• Collect data and conducts environmental analysis in the field using specialized equipment for measuring airborne and underwater noise levels at times requiring lifting up to 25 lbs. and traversing uneven terrain. 
• Analyze measurements in the office using Excel and MatLab routines. 
• Compile data and develops reports of findings. 
• May provide technical assistance and policy guidance on air quality and acoustics related concerns with government agencies, citizens and groups on transportation projects and be able to serve as an air quality and acoustics specialist for transportation issues and consult/collaborate with internal staff on specific transportation projects.
• Work independently or collaboratively as part of a team in completing assigned tasks to meet project deadlines.
• Prepare procedures and guidelines for implementing WSDOT policy. Assists and supports development of statewide air quality and acoustics plans, policies, and procedures to comply with state, federal and local regulations affecting the department.

 
Qualifications
This is a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a TPS 2 or 3 level (depending on 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 the TPS 2 level the following are required: 

• A Bachelor’s degree involving major study in environmental science, natural or physical science, public administration, planning, engineering, or closely related field and at least one (1) year of professional experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems. 

OR 

• One (1) year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 1 or equivalent classification in city or county agencies. 

OR 

• A Master’s degree in academic fields listed above.

 
To be considered for the TPS 3 level the following are required: 

• A Bachelor’s degree involving major study in environmental science, natural or physical science, public administration, planning, engineering, or closely related field and at least (3) three years of professional experience involving analysis and evaluation of transportation issues and problems. 

OR 

• One (1) year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2 or equivalent classification in city or county agencies. 

OR 

• A Master’s degree in academic fields listed above.

 
In addition, the following is required: 

• Valid Driver’s license. 
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing to meet the needs of diverse customers and staff in a variety of complex, technical and non-technical project delivery situations. 
• Ability to effectively coordinate various activities with a variety of different individuals and teams, both internal and external to the agency. 
• Experience and ability to work effectively under stress. 
• Ability to understand and provide clear written and verbal directions. 
• Experience prioritizing and handling multiple work assignments and understanding project schedules. 
• Ability to traverse steep and unstable slopes and work in unprotected, high traffic conditions, transport up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to sit/stand and work in an office setting with standard equipment for the assigned shift. 
• Ability to apply scientific methodologies and analyses. 
• Ability to learn and conduct various environmental computer models and use computers efficiently and effectively.
• Ability to summarize technical information for a non-technical audience. 
• Must be able to operate standard office equipment and effectively work on more than one task at a time while still meeting their deadlines (multi-task).

 
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Knowledge or experience with using the FHWA Traffic Noise Model and the U.S. EPA MOVES model. 
• Completion of the FHWA course “The Fundamentals of Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise”, the more current National Highway Institute course “142051 Highway Traffic Noise” or equivalent as determined by the WSDOT Air Quality and Acoustics Program or ability to complete within one (1) year of employment. Completion of Traffic Noise Fundamentals and FHWA Traffic Noise Model 2.5 (or current approved version) or ability to complete within one (1) year of employment.

 
Important Notes 

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may 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. This information can 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, Amanda Strebeck, at strebal@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference Air Quality and Acoustics Specialist #12095 in the subject line.