Wireless Communications Systems Designer (radio & Microwave Systems)

Wireless Communications Systems Designer (Radio & Microwave Systems)

The Washington State Department of Transportation (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 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

WSDOT is currently seeking a Wireless Communications Systems Designer (Radio & Microwave Systems) to support the statewide wireless communications infrastructure that helps keep Washington's transportation system operating safely and efficiently. Based in Tumwater, this position provides technical expertise in the research, design, installation, testing, and commissioning of Internet Protocol (IP)-based wireless communications and support systems for the department's Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Land Mobile Radio (LMR), and Microwave networks.

In this role, you will help design and maintain sophisticated wireless systems that support critical transportation operations statewide. You will apply advanced technical knowledge to develop reliable communications solutions, support regional staff and partners, and contribute to the continued advancement of WSDOT's wireless technology program. This role combines office-based technical design with hands-on fieldwork supporting statewide wireless communication systems. Work may include operating in remote environments, supporting tower and radio site infrastructure, and working with specialized communications equipment and technology.

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

• Lead research, feasibility studies, and technical design for sophisticated IP-based wireless communication systems supporting statewide transportation operations.
• Develop project scopes, cost estimates, engineering specifications, and design plans for wireless microwave, LMR, antenna, DC power, battery, and uninterrupted power systems.
• Provide subject matter expertise and technical support to regional staff and partners on wireless system design, upgrades, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Test, evaluate, install, commission, and oversee wireless communication systems and supporting infrastructure to ensure reliable performance and compliance with agency and industry standards.
• Support the construction and maintenance of radio towers, antenna systems, shelters, grounding systems, and related infrastructure in coordination with contractors, engineers, and agency staff.
• Apply state, federal, environmental, and industry requirements by coordinating permitting, environmental documentation, and engineering compliance activities.
• Assist with the development of technical specifications, scopes of work, procurement documents, training, and asset management activities supporting statewide wireless systems.

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

• Wireless Communications Systems Expertise: Demonstrated advanced technical proficiency designing, configuring, staging, testing, and commissioning wireless communication systems, including VHF, UHF, 700/800 MHz, P25, IP microwave, MPLS, and IP networking systems to support reliable and compliant operations.
• Technical Design & Engineering Application: Ability to apply engineering principles to develop, integrate, troubleshoot, and optimize complex wireless and networked communication systems.
• Technical Documentation & Interpretation: Skill in interpreting and applying technical documents, engineering drawings, schematics, manuals, and specifications to support system design, installation, and maintenance activities.
• Systems Analysis & Problem Solving: Ability to analyze system performance data, diagnose technical issues, implement solutions, and improve communication system reliability and efficiency.
• Regulatory Compliance & Safety: Knowledge of electrical and wireless engineering principles and ability to consistently apply applicable state and federal regulations, codes, standards, and safety practices.
• Field Operations & Safety Awareness: Ability to assess hazards and safely perform work in remote, high-risk environments, including work at heights, severe weather, and challenging terrain.
• Equipment Operation & Physical Capability: Ability to safely operate tools, specialized equipment, and state vehicles, while performing physically demanding work and safely moving materials and equipment.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles, including 4WD vehicles, to access remote equipment sites.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to pass and maintain a Washington State Patrol Criminal Justice background check.
• Ability to pass and maintain a current General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) issued by the FCC.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a tower climbing safety and rescue certificate.
• Ability to work at heights up to 300 feet on antenna support structures and remote radio facilities.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• IP Networking & RF Systems Knowledge: Advanced knowledge of Ethernet, IP networking, radio propagation, and microwave system design to support scalable and reliable communications systems.
• L3Harris VIDA Systems Experience: Proficiency in the operation, configuration, and maintenance of L3Harris VIDA communication systems supporting integrated public safety networks.
• Nokia Microwave Systems Experience: Proficiency configuring, operating, and troubleshooting Nokia Microwave Systems supporting high-capacity wireless backhaul communications.

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.

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.

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-01905 in the subject line.