Highway Maintenance Worker Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Highway Maintenance Worker roles are sponsored primarily through the H-2B visa for seasonal or temporary positions, or H-1B visa for supervisory-level specialty roles. Most openings sit with state DOTs and municipal contractors who are active E-Verify participants and file LCAs with DOL. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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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 is currently seeking a skilled and experienced leader to join our team as a Highway Maintenance Supervisor overseeing Area 5’s Specialty Crews. Under the direction of the Assistant Maintenance Superintendent, this position leads a team of Highway Maintenance Workers responsible for a diverse range of highway maintenance activities across multiple assigned subsections. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by providing hands-on leadership, supporting employee development, and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and effectively.
This position plays a key role in planning, budgeting, scheduling, and overseeing Area 5 operations, as well as landscaping operations for the NWR Tunnels. The successful candidate will lead by example, foster a professional and respectful work environment, and help ensure Washington’s transportation system remains safe, functional, and ready to support the movement of people and commerce.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Supervisor will:
- Oversee the Seattle Safety Crew, Formal Landscaping Crew, consumable inventory, and Area 5’s NPDES program, engaged in the daily performance of all road maintenance and operations tasks throughout assigned roadways and structures.
- Manage area-wide maintenance operations and plan, schedule, prioritize, and direct the highway maintenance crew across multiple subsections, assigning tasks to HMW3, HMW2, and HMW1 staff.
- Assess maintenance needs for assigned highway sections and support planning and budgeting efforts.
- Initiate, monitor, and maintain traffic control measures during vegetation, encampment, NPDES, and other field operations in accordance with policies and procedures.
- Coordinate operations with engineers, Public Information Officers (PIOs), and Traffic Management Center (TMC) radio operators.
- Manage equipment, materials, and personnel needs for special projects, and coordinate equipment repairs with area shop mechanics.
- Coach and mentor employees; identify training needs; provide training, development, and performance feedback.
- Ensure staff have access to the tools, equipment, and resources needed to perform assigned duties.
- Assist in the safe cleanup and removal of unlawful dwellings.
- Patrol and inspect highway sections to identify maintenance needs such as surface repairs, sign work, graffiti removal, and environmental requirements.
- Ensure work area is safe for self, coworkers, and the traveling public.
- Ensure safe handling of hazardous substances and hazardous objects.
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for each task.
- Report all injuries, accidents and near misses in the computerized system.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Technical Expertise in Highway Maintenance: Demonstrates advanced proficiency in highway maintenance operations, supported by experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 or Highway Maintenance Worker 4, or through an equivalent combination of progressively responsible maintenance experience.
- Operation and Control: Applies sound judgement when operating equipment or systems while monitoring high speed traffic in a high stress environment.
- Licensing & Certification: Possession of an unrestricted Class A CDL with endorsement N and without air brakes restriction, with a valid medical card. The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire. The ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification. The ability to obtain a valid Washington State Pesticide Applicator’s License within six (6) months of hire. Completion of FEMA NIMS Core Curriculum: ICS 100,200,700, 800 and 2200 or ability to obtain within one (1) year of date of hire.
- Customer Service Excellence: Provides responsive, respectful, and solution-oriented service to internal and external customers, representing the agency with professionalism. Demonstrates the ability to use clear, accurate, and professional written communication, including proper grammar, spelling, and documentation required for maintenance reporting.
- Leadership & Team Coordination: Experience leading or supervising crews, providing clear direction, coaching others, and making sound decisions under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
- Analytical & Planning Skills: Knowledge of planning and managing budgets, evaluating operational needs, and applying sound judgment to support effective maintenance and construction activities.
- Technology Use: Proficient in operating Windows-based computers (iPads) and software, such as MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams and various databases used for project tracking and operational reporting.
- Accountability & Work Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and follow through on commitments with a high level of reliability.
- Safety & Compliance: Thorough knowledge of occupational safety requirements and commitment to safe work practices in shop and field environments. Ability to apply safety standards when working with heavy machinery or equipment, and hazardous materials.
- 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:
- Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Traffic Control: Knowledge of traffic control principles, practices, and procedures, with the ability to assess traffic control needs and implement safe and effective traffic control measures. Washington State Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) certification is preferred.
- Highway Maintenance & Emergency Response: Demonstrated knowledge and experience applying highway maintenance practices, traffic control procedures, and emergency response protocols to address routine and unplanned roadway needs while maintaining the safety of workers and the traveling public.
- Regional Transportation System Knowledge: Knowledge of the regional transportation system, including highway access points, landmarks, drainage patterns, traffic flows, potential detour routes, and available maintenance resources, with the ability to use this knowledge to effectively plan and respond to maintenance and emergency situations.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. In addition the 10% assignment pay for this job classification is included.
- Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions and often near moving traffic and heavy equipment, requiring heightened situational awareness and strict adherence to safety practices. The role involves physically demanding tasks, including deploying traffic control devices, flagging, and operating maintenance vehicles and equipment, with extended periods of standing and walking. Employees must wear appropriate PPE at all times.
- 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 a 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 of 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Highway Maintenance Supervisor #13508 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
- Parental Leave
- 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
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 is currently seeking a skilled and experienced leader to join our team as a Highway Maintenance Supervisor overseeing Area 5’s Specialty Crews. Under the direction of the Assistant Maintenance Superintendent, this position leads a team of Highway Maintenance Workers responsible for a diverse range of highway maintenance activities across multiple assigned subsections. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by providing hands-on leadership, supporting employee development, and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and effectively.
This position plays a key role in planning, budgeting, scheduling, and overseeing Area 5 operations, as well as landscaping operations for the NWR Tunnels. The successful candidate will lead by example, foster a professional and respectful work environment, and help ensure Washington’s transportation system remains safe, functional, and ready to support the movement of people and commerce.
What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Highway Maintenance Supervisor will:
- Oversee the Seattle Safety Crew, Formal Landscaping Crew, consumable inventory, and Area 5’s NPDES program, engaged in the daily performance of all road maintenance and operations tasks throughout assigned roadways and structures.
- Manage area-wide maintenance operations and plan, schedule, prioritize, and direct the highway maintenance crew across multiple subsections, assigning tasks to HMW3, HMW2, and HMW1 staff.
- Assess maintenance needs for assigned highway sections and support planning and budgeting efforts.
- Initiate, monitor, and maintain traffic control measures during vegetation, encampment, NPDES, and other field operations in accordance with policies and procedures.
- Coordinate operations with engineers, Public Information Officers (PIOs), and Traffic Management Center (TMC) radio operators.
- Manage equipment, materials, and personnel needs for special projects, and coordinate equipment repairs with area shop mechanics.
- Coach and mentor employees; identify training needs; provide training, development, and performance feedback.
- Ensure staff have access to the tools, equipment, and resources needed to perform assigned duties.
- Assist in the safe cleanup and removal of unlawful dwellings.
- Patrol and inspect highway sections to identify maintenance needs such as surface repairs, sign work, graffiti removal, and environmental requirements.
- Ensure work area is safe for self, coworkers, and the traveling public.
- Ensure safe handling of hazardous substances and hazardous objects.
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for each task.
- Report all injuries, accidents and near misses in the computerized system.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Technical Expertise in Highway Maintenance: Demonstrates advanced proficiency in highway maintenance operations, supported by experience as a Highway Maintenance Worker 3 or Highway Maintenance Worker 4, or through an equivalent combination of progressively responsible maintenance experience.
- Operation and Control: Applies sound judgement when operating equipment or systems while monitoring high speed traffic in a high stress environment.
- Licensing & Certification: Possession of an unrestricted Class A CDL with endorsement N and without air brakes restriction, with a valid medical card. The ability to obtain a valid Traffic Control/Flagging card within six (6) months of hire. The ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire and maintain valid First Aid/CPR Certification. The ability to obtain a valid Washington State Pesticide Applicator’s License within six (6) months of hire. Completion of FEMA NIMS Core Curriculum: ICS 100,200,700, 800 and 2200 or ability to obtain within one (1) year of date of hire.
- Customer Service Excellence: Provides responsive, respectful, and solution-oriented service to internal and external customers, representing the agency with professionalism. Demonstrates the ability to use clear, accurate, and professional written communication, including proper grammar, spelling, and documentation required for maintenance reporting.
- Leadership & Team Coordination: Experience leading or supervising crews, providing clear direction, coaching others, and making sound decisions under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
- Analytical & Planning Skills: Knowledge of planning and managing budgets, evaluating operational needs, and applying sound judgment to support effective maintenance and construction activities.
- Technology Use: Proficient in operating Windows-based computers (iPads) and software, such as MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, Outlook), MS Teams and various databases used for project tracking and operational reporting.
- Accountability & Work Management: Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and follow through on commitments with a high level of reliability.
- Safety & Compliance: Thorough knowledge of occupational safety requirements and commitment to safe work practices in shop and field environments. Ability to apply safety standards when working with heavy machinery or equipment, and hazardous materials.
- 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:
- Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and perform emergency callouts/stand-by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:
- Traffic Control: Knowledge of traffic control principles, practices, and procedures, with the ability to assess traffic control needs and implement safe and effective traffic control measures. Washington State Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) certification is preferred.
- Highway Maintenance & Emergency Response: Demonstrated knowledge and experience applying highway maintenance practices, traffic control procedures, and emergency response protocols to address routine and unplanned roadway needs while maintaining the safety of workers and the traveling public.
- Regional Transportation System Knowledge: Knowledge of the regional transportation system, including highway access points, landmarks, drainage patterns, traffic flows, potential detour routes, and available maintenance resources, with the ability to use this knowledge to effectively plan and respond to maintenance and emergency situations.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position is not eligible for remote work.
- The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County. In addition the 10% assignment pay for this job classification is included.
- Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions and often near moving traffic and heavy equipment, requiring heightened situational awareness and strict adherence to safety practices. The role involves physically demanding tasks, including deploying traffic control devices, flagging, and operating maintenance vehicles and equipment, with extended periods of standing and walking. Employees must wear appropriate PPE at all times.
- 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 a 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 of 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at amanda.strebeck@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Highway Maintenance Supervisor #13508 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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
- Parental Leave
- 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
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Highway Maintenance Worker Jobs
Pull your O*NET classification before applying
Highway Maintenance Worker sits under SOC 47-4051. Knowing your exact classification lets you confirm whether a role qualifies for H-2B temporary labor certification or a higher-skill pathway before you invest time in an application.
Target state DOT contractors over private firms
State and county transportation contractors are legally required to participate in E-Verify and routinely file with DOL for seasonal road crews. They have established PERM and H-2B workflows that smaller private firms typically lack.
Confirm the seasonal window matches your status timeline
H-2B certification covers temporary or seasonal need, usually capped at ten months. If your OPT or status expiry falls mid-project, discuss bridging options with the employer before the offer stage, not after.
Verify the prevailing wage tier for your county
Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up the prevailing wage for SOC 47-4051 in the specific county where you'll work. Employers must certify this rate on the LCA, so knowing it upfront helps you spot underpaying offers early.
Get CDL or flagging certifications documented in advance
Many highway maintenance roles require a Commercial Driver's License or ATSSA flagger certification. Having these credentials documented and translated before your employer files with DOL removes a common delay in the labor certification process.
Use Migrate Mate to track your filing after the offer
Once your employer agrees to sponsor, Migrate Mate can manage the LCA and petition paperwork, flagging any USCIS or DOL requests for evidence so nothing falls through the cracks during a tight seasonal hiring window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What visa categories cover Highway Maintenance Worker sponsorship?
Most Highway Maintenance Worker sponsorships use the H-2B visa, which covers temporary or seasonal non-agricultural labor. If you're in a supervisory or engineering-adjacent role that requires a specific degree, H-1B may apply, but that's uncommon for frontline maintenance positions. TN visa is not available for this occupation category under USMCA.
Do Highway Maintenance Worker jobs require a college degree for sponsorship?
No degree is required for standard H-2B sponsorship. The occupation is classified as a mid-skill trade role under O*NET, so employers certify based on demonstrated skills, licenses, and experience rather than academic credentials. A CDL, OSHA certifications, or ATSSA flagger training carry more weight than a diploma for most highway crew roles.
How do I find highway maintenance employers who actively sponsor visas?
Search Migrate Mate to filter highway maintenance openings by employers with active sponsorship history. DOT-contracted firms and municipal road authorities are the most consistent sponsors because federal and state contracts require E-Verify enrollment and DOL compliance, which creates an established pathway for international workers on seasonal crews.
Is H-2B sponsorship guaranteed if I get a job offer in highway maintenance?
No. The employer must first obtain a temporary labor certification from DOL proving no qualified U.S. workers are available for the role. H-2B also has an annual cap of 66,000 visas, split between two halves of the fiscal year, so timing your offer and filing relative to cap availability matters significantly.
Can I transfer an existing H-2B status to a new highway maintenance employer?
H-2B status is employer-specific and job-specific. If you want to move to a different contractor mid-season, the new employer must file a fresh petition and obtain a new temporary labor certification from DOL. Unlike H-1B, there's no portability provision, so a new filing must be approved before you start work with the new employer.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Highway Maintenance Worker jobs?
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.