Job Details
Environmental Planner (TPS3)
2026-01-26 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
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:
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.
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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-OR-32697 in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Which statement best describes your demonstrated understanding of multimodal transportation planning principles and related federal and state laws, standards, and guidelines, your experience analyzing active transportation and transportation safety topics, and your experience developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence?
02
Briefly describe how you gained your understanding of multimodal transportation planning principles and related federal and state laws, standards, and guidelines; your experience analyzing active transportation and transportation safety topics, and your experience developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence. IF you do not have this experience, type N/A.
03
Briefly describe your experience preparing for and conducting stakeholder and public meetings, collecting and recording meeting information, and preparing written summaries. If you do not have this experience, type N/A.
04
This position requires occasional travel, including overnight travel, and outdoor field work, in daytime or nighttime, that requires traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain; performing duties low to the ground or at ground level; and standing for extended periods of time. The work may also include hazard exposure such as severe weather conditions; noise; air quality hazards such as exhaust; proximity to high-volume, high-speed traffic; heavy construction equipment, materials, chemicals, and products; proximity to creeks and bodies of water; and possible exposure to waste from humans. Are you willing and able to work in these conditions?
05
The position requires on-site presence in a WSDOT facility or other location when business needs, meetings, or operational requirements arise. This position is not eligible for Remote Worker status. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?
06
Please indicate your highest level of completed education:
07
Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.
08
Please select the response that best describes your total years of analytical, technical, and policy experience in transportation planning, engineering, land use, environmental, or public policy work comparable in scope and complexity to a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, or equivalent role in a government agency, non-governmental organization, or with a consultant.
09
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
10
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Salary : $71,472.00 - $96,144.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Lacey, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 25DOT-OR-32697
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Closing Date: 2/10/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department ofTransportation (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 lanemiles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 to join the Olympic Region's (OR) Multimodal Planning team, reporting to the Principal Multimodal Planner. Reporting to the Senior Planner - Team Lead, the incumbent in this position contributes to project delivery efforts includingsupporting pre-design on fish passage and other projects; participates on corridor and environmental planning studies; coordinates with regional planning organizations, local jurisdictions, and tribal nations; and maintains good working relationships with internal and external customers.
This position directly supports the agency strategic plan and goal areas of 1) Workforce Development, by influencing a workplace that supports and promotes training and development for professional growth and upward mobility; 2) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, by creating, influencing, and fostering a physically and psychologically safe workplace where all employees feel that they belong; and 3) Resilience, by ensuring, through adherence to WSDOT policies, that work functions performed are administered to the expected quality, safety, and stewardship standards to support Washington's long-term resilience.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Environmental Planner will:
- Independently identify, coordinate, and conduct the appropriate analysis, technical research, community engagement, and related activities needed to support project pre-design.
- Support preparation and/or update of various planning studies, analyses, and initiatives including corridor/subarea plans and Planning and Environmental Linkages studies.
- Understand and interpret written materials such as policies, manuals, plans, and reports and independently apply this information.
- Summarize information in graphic, tabular, and narrative formats to clearly convey key findings, recommendations, and logic.
- Organize and coordinate technical staff work efforts across WSDOT offices and organizations.
- Oversee and review consultant work activities and deliverables.
- Use geographic information systems (GIS) and other computer software to analyze and display geographic information.
- Facilitate and coordinate meetings with stakeholders such as citizen groups, local agencies, elected officials, tribal nations, other state agencies, federal agencies, and WSDOT support offices.
- Schedule, coordinate, and lead field reviews of project sites.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Transportation Planning Experience: Demonstrated understanding of multimodal transportation planning principles and related federal and state laws, standards, and guidelines. Experience in analyzing active transportation and transportation safety topics. Experience developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence.
- Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to use critical problem-solving skills, tact, strategic judgement, logical thinking, common sense, hard work, and tenacity to independently approach complex challenges while staying within the parameters of good practice.
- Collaborative Approach: Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated track record of working effectively and professionally with others to achieve defined project outcomes.
- Written Communication: Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with others through formal and informal writing consistent with the standards of established English grammar and composition.
- Communication Proficiency: Skills to communicate complex information effectively and professionally to diverse audiences, including those with non-technical backgrounds, using oral, written, and visual means, via telephone, email, text, written memoranda, reports, video conferencing, computer conferencing, in-person presentations, and other methods.
- Engagement Experience: Experience preparing for and conducting stakeholder and public meetings, collecting and recording meeting information, and preparing written summaries.
- Technical and Digital Literacy: Proficiency with Windows-based computers and software, such as MS Office Suite, including Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook; Cloud computing; virtual meeting software, such as MS Teams; and various software applications used to develop calculations, documents, spreadsheets, estimates, and project scheduling.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep and uneven terrain during site visits, perform duties low to the ground or at ground level, and stand for extended periods of time.
- Professional Transportation Planning Expertise: Demonstrated application of analytical, technical, and policy knowledge in transportation planning, engineering, land use, environmental, or public policy work comparable in scope and complexity to a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, or equivalent role in a government agency, non-governmental organization, or with a consultant. This competency may be demonstrated through education and/or professional experience.
- Interagency & Stakeholder Coordination: Demonstrated experience collaborating with local and state agencies, Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), Regional Transportation Planning Organizations (RTPOs), and tribal nations to support transportation planning initiatives.
- Application review will begin on January 27, 2026. Candidate selection may take place at any time thereafter. It is to your advantage to apply as soon as possible.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options consistent with business and project needs.
- Occasional travel, including overnight travel, within Washington State, is an expectation of this position for field visits, meetings, and training.
- 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 Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in 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
- 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. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
- 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 for more information.
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. This cover letter should convey your ability to meet the Written Communication and Communication Proficiency competencies.
- Contact details for a minimum 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.
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.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-OR-32697 in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Which statement best describes your demonstrated understanding of multimodal transportation planning principles and related federal and state laws, standards, and guidelines, your experience analyzing active transportation and transportation safety topics, and your experience developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence?
- No Experience: I have no experience or understanding.
- Limited Experience: I have basic awareness of these topics and have had minimal involvement, under close supervision, in developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related documents.
- Intermediate Experience: I have a working understanding of these topics and have developed or reviewed routine transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence, with guidance as needed.
- Advanced Experience: I have a strong understanding of these topics and regularly develop or review transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence, with minimal oversight.
- Expert Experience: I have extensive, expert-level experience and knowledge of these topics; and author or provide authoritative review of transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence to support high-level planning and decision-making.
02
Briefly describe how you gained your understanding of multimodal transportation planning principles and related federal and state laws, standards, and guidelines; your experience analyzing active transportation and transportation safety topics, and your experience developing or reviewing transportation or environmental-related technical documents, reports, and correspondence. IF you do not have this experience, type N/A.
03
Briefly describe your experience preparing for and conducting stakeholder and public meetings, collecting and recording meeting information, and preparing written summaries. If you do not have this experience, type N/A.
04
This position requires occasional travel, including overnight travel, and outdoor field work, in daytime or nighttime, that requires traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain; performing duties low to the ground or at ground level; and standing for extended periods of time. The work may also include hazard exposure such as severe weather conditions; noise; air quality hazards such as exhaust; proximity to high-volume, high-speed traffic; heavy construction equipment, materials, chemicals, and products; proximity to creeks and bodies of water; and possible exposure to waste from humans. Are you willing and able to work in these conditions?
- Yes
- No
05
The position requires on-site presence in a WSDOT facility or other location when business needs, meetings, or operational requirements arise. This position is not eligible for Remote Worker status. Are you willing and able to meet these requirements?
- Yes
- No
06
Please indicate your highest level of completed education:
- High school diploma or GED
- Associate degree
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree or higher
- None of the above
07
Please list your degree and field of study, or type N/A.
08
Please select the response that best describes your total years of analytical, technical, and policy experience in transportation planning, engineering, land use, environmental, or public policy work comparable in scope and complexity to a Transportation Planning Specialist 2, Transportation Engineer 2, or equivalent role in a government agency, non-governmental organization, or with a consultant.
- I have over ten (10) years of this experience.
- I have 7 - 10 years of this experience.
- I have 5 - 7 years of this experience.
- I have 3 - 5 years of this experience.
- I have 2 - 3 years of this experience.
- I have 1 - 2 years of this experience.
- I have less than one (1) year of this experience.
- I do not have this experience.
09
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- Handshake
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
10
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question