
Posting number: 2026-00938
Department: Seattle Department of Transportation
Division: Maintenance Operations
Job classification: Traffic Sign & Marking Crew Chief I
Posting type: Open & Promotional
Categories: Trades, Transportation, Maintenance, Construction Maintenance, Construction Trades
Vision: Seattle is a thriving and equitable community powered by dependable transportation.
Mission: To deliver a transportation system that provides safe and affordable access to places and opportunities.
The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) is a nationally recognized municipal transportation agency at the leading edge of multi-modal transportation. In our quickly growing city, accessibility, safety, affordability, and reliability are top of mind for us every day! Our core values drive our work toward creating an equitable, sustainable, and vibrant city for all. SDOT's core responsibilities include maintenance and operations of the city's transportation right-of-way, the expansion of the city's bicycle and pedestrian network, care of over 240 bridges, permitting use of public spaces and enhancing access to the regional transit system. With approximately 1,200 dedicated staff, SDOT maintains an operational presence 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in all weather conditions to serve and ensure Seattle's public mobility.
This is a front-line supervisor within our Signs & Markings Team. Employees allocated to this class are responsible for managing staff performing the installation and maintenance of Signs, C-Curb, Guardrails, Crash Cushions, Pavement Markings, Crew Built Capitol Projects, Decorative Pavement Marking, Emergency Response, and various other Signs & Markings related work.
Must be able to read plans, and work orders to determine what resources and equipment are necessary to complete the assigned project. This position requires significant coordination with internal partners to deliver and schedule work. Furthermore, the use of Microsoft office suites (excel, word, outlook, teams) is essential for success in this position.
It is critical that employees in this position are knowledgeable in the installation and maintenance of all the listed asset classes. Employees in this class must be able to operate all machinery & equipment used by the work group (Paint Truck, Liquid Thermoplastic Applicator, Paint Carts, Skid Steer). An understanding of street painting practices, and supervisory techniques. The ability to train subordinate staff in all aspects of the work assigned to the team.
•Provide daily, in person evaluation of work performed, directly supervise productivity, and document coaching or provide feedback as necessary to maintain standards.
•Manage daily administrative operations, including time entry and approval in Workday, work management activities in Hansen, and creation and organization of documents using Microsoft Office applications.
•Establishes work priorities and schedules, and supervises, coordinates, and evaluates work activities of crews engaged in installation, maintenance, and repair projects.
•Maintains records of human resource assignments, materials used, equipment, and costs to complete projects.
•Investigates and documents work-related vehicular and personal injury accidents.
•Perform regular inspections of installations to assess repairs and maintenance requirements, verifying that all corrective work is properly executed and meets established quality standards.
•Train and instruct employees on safe operation of all machinery and equipment used by the work group.
•Performs other related duties of a comparable level/type as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience:
Three years of public works experience including two years in traffic marking and non-electric traffic control device operations
Or combinations of education, training and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability.
Strong candidates will have some of the following experience or are able to describe comparable experience: (Desired Quals)
•5 Years experience leading crews in the installation of pavement markings
•3 Years experience operating a long line paint truck.
•3 Years experience operating a liquid thermoplastic applicator.
•1 Year experience utilizing Microsoft office suites.
Work Environment / Physical Demands
•Exposed to traffic, noise, fumes, and reckless drivers.
•Required to be available to subordinate personnel one half hour prior to each shift and through the end of the shift.
•Required to work on weekends or extended hours depending on given project requirements and needs.
Other Requirements:
•A valid State of Washington Driver's License is required for employment. This license must be maintained throughout employment.
•Positions require a valid Washington State, "Class A" Commercial Driver's License (CDL), with the airbrake restriction removed, within their probationary period. If required, this license must be maintained throughout employment. An Abstract of complete driving record (obtained at applicant's expense) may be required from the State of Washington Department of Licensing.
•Comprehensive drug testing in accordance with the Federal Department of Transportation Drug and Alcohol Testing Program may be required.
Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.
Hiring Process
Applications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered:
1.Completed NEOGOV online application.
2.Cover letter describing how your skills and experience align with the stated job responsibilities and qualifications.
3.Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.
4.Supplemental questionnaire responses.
Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, including professional work and education verifications, pre-placement physical exam, and full driver's abstract.
This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided with an opportunity to explain or correct background information.
Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The full salary range for this position is $46.97 - $50.74 per hour.
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.
More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits
Who May Apply: This position is open to all candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The Department encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, veterans and those with diverse life experiences.
Accommodations for people with disabilities is provided on request.
The City is a Drug Free Workplace.

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