Bituminous Testing Engineer (TE2)

About the role

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) seeks a Transportation Engineer 2 to serve as a lead Bituminous Testing Engineer in the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory. This role supports statewide WSDOT capital construction projects and local jurisdictions with bituminous mixture design verification, conformance, and forensic testing.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead, responsible for complex bituminous mixtures testing, hands-on training, instructing, and inspecting the work of other employees working in the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory.
• Perform the most complex materials testing in the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory in accordance with AASHTO, ASTM, WAQTC and WSDOT test procedures.
• Aid in preparation, analysis, verification and reporting of Quality Product List (QPL) asphalt mixtures which incorporate volumetric design of asphalt mixtures and all other asphalt mixture design types as requested.
• Prepare, analyze and correct data entries performed by all laboratory technicians and maintain equipment calibrations, verifications, maintenance and associated records.
• Maintain, adjust, and verify laboratory testing equipment.
• Represent the Department in meetings with outside Agencies and consultants for specific projects as needed.
• Be responsible for testing AASHTO re:source Proficiency Samples and participation in AASHTO re:source onsite inspections.

Qualifications

• Experience interpreting and validating materials test data for use in engineering design, specification compliance, or performance evaluation.
• Knowledge of applicable testing methodologies and industry standards (AASHTO, ASTM, WAQTC, or equivalent).
• Experience with calibration, maintenance, and verification procedures for specialized laboratory instruments.
• Knowledge of safety regulations, risk mitigation practices, and environmental considerations in materials testing laboratories.
• Knowledge of engineering data analysis, including statistical methods for interpreting and validating complex material test results.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and accreditation processes related to laboratory testing, including proficiency sample programs and external audits.
• Experience performing and overseeing complex materials tests, ensuring data accuracy and procedural compliance.
• Skilled in laboratory management practices, including workflow coordination, quality control, and test standardization and organization including tracking test data, sample log-in, equipment maintenance, and calibrations.
• Experience adapting to and implementing new technologies, testing methods, and data systems to improve laboratory performance.
• Experience leading, mentoring, or training technical personnel in laboratory methods, equipment uses, and data analysis.
• Ability to lead quality assurance activities including proficiency testing, audit preparation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Skills to exercise professional judgment in evaluating material performance and test results.
• Experience maintaining and calibrating specialized laboratory instruments and ensuring accuracy of results.
• Skills to analyze and validate test data to support engineering decisions, mixture design verification, and specification development.
• Ability to identify and resolve technical, procedural, or equipment issues through critical thinking and root cause analysis.
• Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Takes action to meet the needs of others.

Qualifications Required

• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications in assigned test procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Status as a Qualified Tester in all tests associated with the Bituminous Mixtures Laboratory and proficiency in related specialized computer programs.

Benefits

WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options, state retirement programs, and more. For more information, visit here.