Transportation Engineers for Roads and Transit
Transportation Engineers for Roads and Transit design and improve how people and vehicles move on streets, highways, bridges, and public transit systems. They use tools like AutoCAD, traffic‑simulation software (such as VISSIM or Synchro), and GIS maps to plan safer intersections, choose materials like porous pavement, and design drainage systems that reduce flooding and pollution. They also estimate project costs, review construction plans, and make decisions about traffic lights, signs, and lane layouts to cut down on crashes and traffic jams while following strict safety and environmental rules.
Did you know?
Transportation Engineers in the US typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and must obtain Professional Engineer (PE) licensure for senior positions and public sector work.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$96,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Speaking
Things to consider
Employment Opportunities and Job Market
Strong job growth is expected due to America's aging infrastructure needs, with opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and private companies across transportation sectors.
Specialization and Career Advancement
Engineers can specialize in areas like traffic engineering, highway design, public transit planning, or emerging smart transportation technologies to advance their careers.
Key responsibilities
Review development plans to determine potential traffic impact.
Analyze environmental impact statements for transportation projects.
Model transportation scenarios to evaluate the impacts of activities such as new development or to identify possible solutions to transportation problems.
Evaluate transportation systems or traffic control devices or lighting systems to determine need for modification or expansion.
Supervise the maintenance or repair of transportation systems or system components.