Landscape Architecture - Design/Construction Program Lead (Tps3)

About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a 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 serve as the Landscape Architecture

• Design/Construction Program Lead in Vancouver, WA. This is a project delivery focused position that supports WSDOT's mission and Southwest Region through wise management of the roadside as an asset, delivering right-sized and context-sensitive projects, supporting multi-modal transportation options, and improving environmental conditions. The incumbent acts as the primary team lead in two primary functional areas, Roadside Design Program Lead and Roadside Construction Program Lead, to provide technical expertise in landscape architectural and restoration ecology best practices and agency standards, guidance, and procedures to integrate transportation facilities into the natural and build environment. The position provides essential support and quality control for contract documents prior to execution and provides expertise for the construction program. This position is critical in fostering a respectful and healthy work environment with focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

What to Expect

Work occurs in office settings and in construction/field offices/construction sites where specific safety training and requirements may apply. Travel requirements include regular travel in Southwest Region to and from project sites for site analysis, meetings, and construction oversight and inspection. Occasional travel to other office locations to attend meetings or training.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Lead design development; implement and manage roadside restoration and irrigation design work in Southwest Region and overflow from other regions.

• Conduct environmental reviews and landscape architecture functional analyses of project elements and impacts to the natural and built environments.

• Recommend design and construction strategies for avoiding and minimizing impacts to protected habitats and species, trees, and native plant communities.

• Provide field analysis, landscape architectural and Roadside Policy guidance to construction offices.

• Provide specialized construction inspection services.

• Attend field visits and conduct site inspections to provide written recommendations on construction, weed control, and monthly plant establishment needs.

• Provide SME approval for all completed project weed control work, replanting, and surface conditions compliance work, and irrigation system management and operation.

• Attend meetings, training and conferences as needed for professional development and coordinate with other environmental professionals within WSDOT for continued professional development.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in the study of Landscape Architecture, and two (2) years of professional experience in landscape architecture involving analysis, design, and/or construction of large, complex environmental restoration projects. NOTE: A Master's degree in landscape architecture will substitute for one year of the required experience.

OR

• One year as a Transportation Planning Specialist 2 (landscape architecture), Landscape Designer 2, or equivalent classification in city or county agencies.

In addition to one of the above, the following are also required:

• Current WSDA Pesticide Public Operator License with Right of Way and Aquatic endorsements, or ability to obtain license and endorsements within 12 months of employment.

• Two (2) years of experience producing drafting products in AutoCAD or MicroStation.

• A valid driver's license.

• Ability to traverse sloped/uneven/unstable walking surfaces, and obstacles in the course of field work, including downed logs, dense brush, and shallow streams while managing equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Registration as a Professional Landscape Architect in Washington State.

• International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist.

• Certified Erosion and Spill Control Lead (CESCL) Certification and construction compliance experience.

• Expertise with MicroStation or AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office and Microsoft Excel.

• Expertise in developing complex site grading and restoration plans specific to native ecosystem restoration.

• Expertise developing contract specifications and estimates, including long term site management.

• Expertise conducting construction site inspections related to contract compliance and making recommendations to inspectors related to site deficiencies and proposed solutions.

• Expertise providing professional recommendations to construction inspectors regarding vegetation protection and impact minimization, soil restoration, soi-bioengineering techniques, irrigation system installation, planting best management practices, and vegetation management.

• Expertise reviewing and implementing adaptive management strategies including weed and pest management control.

• Expertise in the design, installation, and operation of irrigation systems.

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 range listed includes the legislative approved general wage increase of 3%, effective on July 1, 2024.

• 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.

• Selected candidates may be required to submit an electronic portfolio of their design and/or construction work prior to interviews.

• Travel requirements include regular travel in Southwest Region to and from project sites for site analysis, meetings, and construction oversight and inspection. Occasional travel to other office locations to attend meetings or training.

• 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. 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 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 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, Daisha Jordan, at Daisha.Jordan@wsdot.wa.gov . Please be sure to reference 24DOT-SWR-41571 in the subject line.