Government H-1B Sponsorship Jobs in Washington
Government H-1B visa sponsorship jobs in Washington are concentrated around agencies and contractors in the Seattle metro, Olympia, and the broader Puget Sound region. Major employers include federal agencies, defense contractors like Boeing, and state government bodies. Roles span IT, engineering, public health, and policy analysis, making Washington one of the more active states for government-sector H-1B filings.
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About WSDOT
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!
The Opportunity
WSDOT Bridge & Structures Office (BPO) is currently seeking a Bridge Engineer 3 to serve as an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) Operator and Co-Inspector in Tumwater, WA. This position plays a critical role in supporting federally mandated bridge inspections and ensuring the safety and reliability of bridges on the state highway system. You will operate specialized inspection equipment, support close-up inspections of transportation structures, perform non-destructive testing, maintain inspection equipment, and help train other staff. At the BE3 level, you will also help lead UBIT inspection planning and serve as an experienced co-inspector.
What to Expect
This position, at times, performs works at heights exceeding 100’, inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Drive and operate Under Bridge Inspection Trucks and other access equipment essential for close-up bridge inspections.
- Assist with in-service bridge inspections in accordance with federal and WSDOT requirements, using equipment and techniques such as technical rope access, UBITs, bucket trucks, scaffolding, and boats.
- Perform non-destructive testing, including ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant testing, on complex structures.
- Assist with inspection planning and preparation, assess bridge condition and serviceability, and identify needed repairs.
- Perform emergency response and participate in standby or on-call duty as required.
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and perform field repairs on UBITs.
- Provide formal training to less experienced staff on UBIT operations and assist with training on other inspection equipment.
- Develop schedules for UBIT inspection trips and write equipment specifications for new purchases, including UBITs and personal safety equipment.
- Schedule repairs and required maintenance for UBITs and other inspection equipment.
- Support office functions and other assignments as needed.
Qualifications
This is a Bridge Engineer 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 1, the following competencies are required:
- Effective Communication – Adept at verbal and written communication with team members.
- Organized Work Planning – Basic ability to prioritize and manage assigned tasks.
- Time Management – Allocate appropriate time for assigned tasks and make timely requests for assistance when needed.
- Equipment Operation – Basic ability to safely operate under-bridge inspection trucks (UBITs) or similar.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 2, the following competencies are required, in addition to the Bridge Engineer 1 qualifications:
- Bridge Condition Inspection Training – Successful completion of an FHWA-approved comprehensive bridge inspection training.
- Bridge Inspection – Demonstrated experience as a co-inspector on routine bridge inspections.
- Equipment Operation – Demonstrated ability to safely operate bridge inspection equipment, including mobile elevated work platforms and under-bridge inspection trucks (UBITs).
- Equipment Maintenance – Ability to perform basic driver-maintenance and troubleshooting on UBITs with guidance and some experience scheduling regular maintenance and necessary repairs.
- Completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification – Successful completion of Aspen Ariel course.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 3, the following competencies are required, in addition to the Bridge Engineer 2 qualifications:
- Bridge Inspection Training – Successful completion of an FHWA-approved NSTM training course.
- Organized Work Planning – Basic ability to coordinate logistics, equipment, and traffic control for scheduled bridge inspection trips.
- Time Management – Allocate appropriate time for planned bridge inspections, including travel and mobilization, and completion of final bridge inspection reports within 90 days of each inspection.
- Equipment Maintenance – Ability to individually perform required driver-maintenance and troubleshooting on UBITs.
In addition, the following are required at any level:
- Respectful Workplace: Actively contributes to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- A Class A Commercial Driver's License without airbrakes restriction.
- Ability to work at heights exceeding 100 feet, in confined spaces, over waterways, and on uneven terrain.
- Ability to travel overnight on a frequent basis.
- Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Ability to participate in standby on-call emergency response assignments.
- Ability to complete a Bridge Condition Inspection Course.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Bridge Technical Knowledge: Basic knowledge of bridge components obtained through bridge inspection or maintenance experience.
- UBIT Operation: Experience operating under-bridge inspection trucks, including bucket truck and UBIT driving experience.
- Bridge Inspection Standards: Familiarity with the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), Specifications for a National Bridge Inventory (SNBI), and WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual.
- Bridge Data Systems: Familiarity with WSDOT bridge inventory data, BridgeWorks, and WSDOT bridge elements.
- Completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- In addition to the salary range listed, for this specific Bridge Engineer 3 position, an additional 10% assignment pay will be applied when either operating an Under-Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) from the bucket or while serving as back-up operator on the bridge deck for a minimum of four (4) hours per working day.
- This position requires frequent overnight travel.
- This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
- This is an in-training position that offers a career path and on-the-job training. This position allows you to progress through the Bridge Engineer field and achieve the goal class of Bridge Engineer 3. Candidates will be considered as Bridge Engineer 1, 2, or 3 level, depending on their qualifications. The salary levels for each are:
- Bridge Engineer 3: $80,496 – $108,228 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 2: $72,900 – $98,064 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 1: $66,072 – $88,788 Annually
- 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.
- 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
- 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.
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 at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-01842 in the subject line.
Description
About WSDOT
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!
The Opportunity
WSDOT Bridge & Structures Office (BPO) is currently seeking a Bridge Engineer 3 to serve as an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) Operator and Co-Inspector in Tumwater, WA. This position plays a critical role in supporting federally mandated bridge inspections and ensuring the safety and reliability of bridges on the state highway system. You will operate specialized inspection equipment, support close-up inspections of transportation structures, perform non-destructive testing, maintain inspection equipment, and help train other staff. At the BE3 level, you will also help lead UBIT inspection planning and serve as an experienced co-inspector.
What to Expect
This position, at times, performs works at heights exceeding 100’, inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:
- Drive and operate Under Bridge Inspection Trucks and other access equipment essential for close-up bridge inspections.
- Assist with in-service bridge inspections in accordance with federal and WSDOT requirements, using equipment and techniques such as technical rope access, UBITs, bucket trucks, scaffolding, and boats.
- Perform non-destructive testing, including ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant testing, on complex structures.
- Assist with inspection planning and preparation, assess bridge condition and serviceability, and identify needed repairs.
- Perform emergency response and participate in standby or on-call duty as required.
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and perform field repairs on UBITs.
- Provide formal training to less experienced staff on UBIT operations and assist with training on other inspection equipment.
- Develop schedules for UBIT inspection trips and write equipment specifications for new purchases, including UBITs and personal safety equipment.
- Schedule repairs and required maintenance for UBITs and other inspection equipment.
- Support office functions and other assignments as needed.
Qualifications
This is a Bridge Engineer 3 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 1, the following competencies are required:
- Effective Communication – Adept at verbal and written communication with team members.
- Organized Work Planning – Basic ability to prioritize and manage assigned tasks.
- Time Management – Allocate appropriate time for assigned tasks and make timely requests for assistance when needed.
- Equipment Operation – Basic ability to safely operate under-bridge inspection trucks (UBITs) or similar.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 2, the following competencies are required, in addition to the Bridge Engineer 1 qualifications:
- Bridge Condition Inspection Training – Successful completion of an FHWA-approved comprehensive bridge inspection training.
- Bridge Inspection – Demonstrated experience as a co-inspector on routine bridge inspections.
- Equipment Operation – Demonstrated ability to safely operate bridge inspection equipment, including mobile elevated work platforms and under-bridge inspection trucks (UBITs).
- Equipment Maintenance – Ability to perform basic driver-maintenance and troubleshooting on UBITs with guidance and some experience scheduling regular maintenance and necessary repairs.
- Completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification – Successful completion of Aspen Ariel course.
To be considered as a Bridge Engineer 3, the following competencies are required, in addition to the Bridge Engineer 2 qualifications:
- Bridge Inspection Training – Successful completion of an FHWA-approved NSTM training course.
- Organized Work Planning – Basic ability to coordinate logistics, equipment, and traffic control for scheduled bridge inspection trips.
- Time Management – Allocate appropriate time for planned bridge inspections, including travel and mobilization, and completion of final bridge inspection reports within 90 days of each inspection.
- Equipment Maintenance – Ability to individually perform required driver-maintenance and troubleshooting on UBITs.
In addition, the following are required at any level:
- Respectful Workplace: Actively contributes to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.
- A Class A Commercial Driver's License without airbrakes restriction.
- Ability to work at heights exceeding 100 feet, in confined spaces, over waterways, and on uneven terrain.
- Ability to travel overnight on a frequent basis.
- Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Ability to participate in standby on-call emergency response assignments.
- Ability to complete a Bridge Condition Inspection Course.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Bridge Technical Knowledge: Basic knowledge of bridge components obtained through bridge inspection or maintenance experience.
- UBIT Operation: Experience operating under-bridge inspection trucks, including bucket truck and UBIT driving experience.
- Bridge Inspection Standards: Familiarity with the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), Specifications for a National Bridge Inventory (SNBI), and WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual.
- Bridge Data Systems: Familiarity with WSDOT bridge inventory data, BridgeWorks, and WSDOT bridge elements.
- Completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- In addition to the salary range listed, for this specific Bridge Engineer 3 position, an additional 10% assignment pay will be applied when either operating an Under-Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) from the bucket or while serving as back-up operator on the bridge deck for a minimum of four (4) hours per working day.
- This position requires frequent overnight travel.
- This position is subject to the drug and alcohol testing requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For more information, please go to DOT Drug & Alcohol Testing.
- This is an in-training position that offers a career path and on-the-job training. This position allows you to progress through the Bridge Engineer field and achieve the goal class of Bridge Engineer 3. Candidates will be considered as Bridge Engineer 1, 2, or 3 level, depending on their qualifications. The salary levels for each are:
- Bridge Engineer 3: $80,496 – $108,228 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 2: $72,900 – $98,064 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 1: $66,072 – $88,788 Annually
- 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.
- 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 offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
- 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.
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 at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-01842 in the subject line.
H-1B Government Job Roles in Washington
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Search Government Jobs in WashingtonGovernment H-1B Sponsorship Jobs in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
Which government employers in Washington sponsor H-1B visas?
Federal agencies with significant Washington presences, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and the Department of Veterans Affairs, have historically filed H-1B visa petitions. State agencies and large government contractors such as Boeing, Leidos, and Booz Allen Hamilton also sponsor H-1B workers for roles tied to Washington-based contracts. Sponsorship patterns vary by agency, fiscal year, and role.
Which cities in Washington have the most government H-1B sponsorship jobs?
Seattle and the surrounding Puget Sound area account for the largest share of government H-1B filings in Washington, driven by federal offices, defense contractors, and technology-adjacent public sector roles. Olympia, as the state capital, concentrates state agency positions. The Tri-Cities area (Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco) is notable for Department of Energy and PNNL-related sponsorship in scientific and engineering fields.
What types of government roles in Washington typically qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
H-1B sponsorship in the government sector generally applies to specialty occupation roles requiring at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field. In Washington, qualifying positions commonly include software engineers, cybersecurity analysts, data scientists, civil and environmental engineers, public health specialists, and policy researchers. General administrative or clerical roles typically do not meet the specialty occupation standard required for H-1B eligibility.
How do I find government H-1B sponsorship jobs in Washington?
Migrate Mate lists government H-1B sponsorship jobs in Washington filtered by visa type and industry, so you can search specifically for roles where employers have a documented history of H-1B filings. Focus on federal contractors and agencies with offices in Seattle, the Tri-Cities, and Olympia. Reviewing Labor Condition Application (LCA) disclosure data on the Department of Labor's OFLC portal can also help confirm which Washington government employers have filed recently.
Are there any state-specific considerations for H-1B sponsorship in Washington's government sector?
Washington state does not impose additional visa requirements beyond federal H-1B rules, but the high concentration of federal security clearance roles in the defense and intelligence sectors adds a practical layer. Many government contractor positions in Washington require or prefer a security clearance, which non-U.S. citizens on H-1B status may not be eligible to obtain. Candidates should confirm clearance requirements before applying to avoid eligibility conflicts.
What is the prevailing wage for H-1B government jobs in Washington?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.