Highway Maintenance Worker 1

About the role

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a Highway Maintenance Worker 1 to provide year-round maintenance and operational support at the Ryegrass Rest Area on Interstate 90. This position plays an important role in maintaining safe, accessible restroom facilities and well-kept public spaces.

Responsibilities

• Clean and disinfect restrooms by maintaining toilets, sinks, urinals, floors, walls, fixtures, drains, and dispensers to ensure facilities remain safe, sanitary, and fully operational.
• Maintain restroom buildings by replacing air filters and light bulbs, cleaning vents, removing graffiti, collecting water samples, and monitoring supply inventory.
• Perform exterior cleaning by collecting litter, emptying trash and ash receptacles, cleaning picnic areas, walkways, RV dump stations, buildings, and other public-use facilities.
• Remove snow and ice from parking areas, sidewalks, entrances, and other pedestrian areas using plows, snowblowers, shovels, and deicing materials to maintain safe access during winter conditions.
• Repair and replace minor plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and building components, including faucets, fixtures, dispensers, doors, signs, lighting, and heating system components.
• Maintain landscaped grounds by mowing, edging, pruning, controlling weeds, repairing irrigation systems, and keeping sidewalks and grounds free of debris.
• Respond to vandalism by removing graffiti, repairing damaged facilities, and safely handling hazardous materials and biohazardous waste using appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Support daily operations by assisting the traveling public, opening and closing rest areas, attending training and safety meetings, and providing coverage at other rest areas as needed.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of workplace safety procedures and commitment to following safety policies, including confined space entry, fall protection, and hazardous material handling.
• Ability to interpret Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for the proper mixing and handling of chemicals.
• Teamwork ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently in the field.
• Capable of working independently or with a team.
• Experience contributing to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
• Growth mindset & service-oriented: actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth, takes action to meet the needs of others.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid First Aid/CPR certification within six (6) months of hire.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to perform routine maintenance activities in a facilities, grounds, custodial, or related maintenance environment.
• Tool & Equipment Operation: Ability to safely use and maintain basic hand tools and powered equipment to complete maintenance and repair tasks.