Transportation engineers design and improve transportation systems including highways, airports, bridges, and transit networks. They earn a median salary of $89,940 and need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering plus professional licensure. Job growth is projected at 5% through 2032.
Thinking about becoming a transportation engineer? You're looking at a career that literally shapes how people move through the world. Whether it's designing a safer intersection, planning a new highway corridor, or improving public transit flow, you'll solve problems that affect thousands of people daily.
Here's what you need to know about the education requirements, salary expectations, and day-to-day realities of this career. We'll walk through what the job actually involves, where you'll work, and how to get licensed-because yes, you'll need that PE license to advance.
What Does a Transportation Engineer Do?
Transportation engineers focus on designing new transportation systems and improving existing infrastructure. This includes highways, airports, railroads, bridges, and transit systems. You'll spend your time analyzing traffic patterns, identifying safety problems, and developing solutions that balance efficiency, safety, and cost.
The work breaks down into several key areas. You might analyze accident data to identify dangerous intersections, then redesign lane configurations or adjust signal timing to improve safety. Or you'll evaluate traffic flow during peak hours and recommend solutions like adding turn lanes, modifying signal phases, or implementing roundabouts.
Data analysis drives most decisions. You'll collect and evaluate traffic counts, accident statistics, travel patterns, and cost projections. Modern transportation engineering relies heavily on specialized software-traffic simulation programs such as VISSIM or Synchro, CAD software for design, and GIS systems for spatial analysis.
Collaboration is constant. You'll work with state DOT officials, city planners, utility companies, and contractors. On major projects, you might coordinate with environmental engineers assessing impacts or urban planners considering broader community needs.
Where Do Transportation Engineers Work?
Most transportation engineers work for private consulting firms-companies that contract with state and local governments on transportation projects. These firms typically employ 10-500 engineers and offer a variety in project types and clients.
State and local government agencies employ the second-largest group. State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) manage highway systems and major infrastructure. City and county transportation departments focus on local road networks, traffic signals, and transit systems. These positions often offer a better work-life balance and greater job security than consulting.
Your typical day involves split time between the office and the field. In the office, you'll work with traffic modeling software, review design plans, analyze data, and write reports. Field visits take you to construction sites to oversee progress, or to existing roadways to observe traffic patterns and collect data.
Remote work has become more common for office-based tasks like data analysis, modeling, and report writing. However, site visits and client meetings still require in-person presence. Most transportation engineers work standard 40-hour weeks, though project deadlines sometimes require overtime-especially when coordinating construction schedules or meeting regulatory timelines.
Travel requirements vary by employer. Consulting firms might have you visit project sites across a region. State DOT positions typically keep you within your assigned district. Expect occasional overnight travel for conferences or major project reviews.
Transportation Engineer Salary & Compensation
Transportation engineers fall under the Bureau of Labor Statistics category of civil engineers. As of 2022, civil engineers earned a median salary of $89,940. The lowest 10% earned around $61,040, while the highest 10% made $138,690.
Your salary depends heavily on experience level and Professional Engineer licensure. Here's how compensation typically progresses:
| Experience Level | Years | Typical Salary Range | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 0-2 years | $58,000-$72,000 | EIT certification, learning fundamentals |
| Early Career | 3-5 years | $65,000-$85,000 | Passing PE exam, taking on projects |
| Mid-Career | 6-10 years | $80,000-$105,000 | Licensed PE, managing projects |
| Senior Level | 10+ years | $100,000-$140,000+ | Department lead, principal engineer |
Location significantly affects salary. Transportation engineers in major metropolitan areas-especially coastal cities with high costs of living-earn substantially more. States with large infrastructure programs, such as California, Texas, and Florida, typically offer higher compensation to attract qualified candidates.
The sector matters too. Private consulting firms often pay more at the entry level but expect longer hours during project crunch times. Government positions typically offer lower starting salaries but better benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance. Federal positions with agencies like the Federal Highway Administration fall at the higher end of the government pay scale.
Education & Licensure Requirements
You'll need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABET-accredited program. This four-year degree covers core engineering principles-statics, dynamics, materials science, hydraulics-plus transportation-specific courses in traffic engineering, highway design, and transportation planning.
Most programs include a capstone design project where you'll apply what you've learned to a real-world transportation problem. Look for programs that offer internship or co-op opportunities with state DOTs or consulting firms. That experience matters when job hunting.
Professional licensure isn't technically required for all positions, but it's essential for career advancement. You can't sign off on design plans or take full responsibility for projects without a PE license. Most employers expect you to pursue licensure even if your entry-level role doesn't strictly require it.
The licensure path follows a standard timeline:
| Step | Timing | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Complete ABET-accredited degree | 4 years | Bachelor's in civil engineering |
| 2. Pass FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam | During senior year or shortly after graduation | 6-hour computer-based exam covering engineering fundamentals |
| 3. Gain work experience as EIT (Engineer in Training) | 4 years minimum | Progressive engineering experience under licensed PE supervision |
| 4. Pass PE (Professional Engineer) exam | After 4+ years experience | 8-hour exam testing civil engineering practice; transportation depth section available |
| 5. Maintain license | Ongoing | Continuing education requirements vary by state (typically 15-30 hours annually) |
Some transportation engineers pursue master's degrees, though it's not required. A master's in civil engineering with transportation emphasis or a master's in transportation engineering can help you move into specialized roles or research positions. It's particularly valuable if you're interested in transportation planning, modeling, or policy rather than traditional design work.
For degree programs, consider environmental engineering, which often includes transportation courses, or look for schools with strong civil engineering departments and transportation research centers.
Essential Skills for Success
Technical skills form your foundation. You need strong analytical abilities-you'll constantly evaluate data to make design decisions. Proficiency in traffic simulation software (VISSIM, Synchro, HCS), CAD programs (AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation), and GIS systems is expected. Most of these you'll learn on the job, but familiarity with engineering software in general helps.
Problem-solving defines the work. Transportation problems rarely have single "right" answers. You're balancing safety, efficiency, cost, environmental impact, and community concerns. The best solutions often require creative thinking within engineering constraints.
Communication matters more than many engineers expect. You'll write technical reports that non-engineers need to understand. You'll present designs to city councils or community groups who care deeply about how projects affect their neighborhoods. Being able to explain complex engineering concepts in plain language is crucial.
Project management becomes important as you advance. You'll coordinate with multiple teams, manage budgets, and keep projects on schedule. Understanding how decisions affect timelines and costs sets great engineers apart from good ones.
Attention to detail can't be overlooked. Small design errors in transportation systems can have serious safety consequences. You'll need to catch calculation errors, review designs thoroughly, and ensure plans comply with all regulatory requirements.
Career Advancement & Specializations
Most transportation engineers start as junior engineers or EITs, working under supervision while gaining experience toward licensure. You'll assist with traffic studies, prepare design calculations, and help with construction oversight.
After earning your PE license, you'll take on independent project work. You might lead intersection design projects, manage traffic signal timing studies, or oversee corridor improvement plans. This stage typically lasts 5-8 years as you build expertise and reputation.
Senior engineers manage large projects and mentor junior staff. You're reviewing others' work, making final design decisions, and coordinating with clients. Some senior engineers specialize deeply in one area-becoming the go-to expert on highway design or traffic operations.
Management tracks lead to positions like transportation department director or principal engineer at consulting firms. You're less involved in daily technical work and more focused on client relationships, business development, and strategic planning. Some engineers prefer to stay technical rather than move into management.
Specialization options include:
- Highway Design: Focus on geometric design of roadways, interchanges, and safety features
- Traffic Operations: Specialize in signal systems, ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems), and traffic flow optimization
- Transportation Planning: Work on long-range planning, travel demand modeling, and policy development
- Transit Engineering: Design bus rapid transit systems, light rail, or other public transportation infrastructure
- Safety Engineering: Analyze crash data and design countermeasures to reduce accidents
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities: Design protected bike lanes, multi-use paths, and complete streets
Some transportation engineers transition into related fields. Moving into urban planning brings a broader perspective on how transportation fits into community development. Others move into transportation policy roles or academic research positions.
Job Outlook & Demand
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% growth for civil engineers between 2022 and 2032. That translates to approximately 21,200 new positions annually, accounting for both growth and replacement needs.
Infrastructure investment drives demand. The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act allocated $110 billion specifically for roads and bridges-the largest investment in decades. States are ramping up hiring for engineers to manage these projects.
Regional variation is significant. States experiencing rapid population growth-Texas, Florida, Arizona, and North Carolina-have strong demand as they expand transportation networks. Meanwhile, northeastern and midwestern states focus more on rehabilitating aging infrastructure than on new construction.
Emerging trends are creating new opportunities. Electric vehicle infrastructure requires transportation engineers to plan charging station locations and assess power distribution needs. Autonomous vehicle technology will eventually require the redesign of road systems. Complete streets initiatives emphasizing bike lanes, pedestrian facilities, and transit integration are expanding the field beyond traditional car-centric design.
Climate adaptation is becoming a major factor. Transportation infrastructure must now account for increased flooding, extreme heat affecting pavement, and sea-level rise in coastal areas. Engineers with expertise in resilient design have growing opportunities.
Competition for positions varies. Entry-level jobs in desirable locations (major cities, scenic regions) attract many applicants. However, engineers willing to work in less popular areas or for state DOTs in rural regions often find abundant opportunities and faster advancement.
Professional Resources & Organizations
Professional organizations provide valuable networking, continuing education, and career resources. These are the most relevant for transportation engineers:
Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) is the primary professional organization for transportation engineers. They offer technical resources, professional development courses, and an annual meeting that's essential for staying current with industry trends. ITE's job board connects members with positions nationwide. Student memberships are available at reduced rates and provide access to mentorship programs.
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) represents highway and transportation departments across all 50 states. While primarily serving state DOT officials, their publications-especially the "Green Book" design standards-are essential references for all transportation engineers. Their website provides updates on federal transportation policy and state-level initiatives.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) serves the broader civil engineering profession but offers valuable resources for transportation engineers. Their transportation division provides specialized technical publications and hosts conferences focused on infrastructure challenges. ASCE's continuing education programs help maintain PE licensure requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation engineering the same as civil engineering?
Transportation engineering is a specialization within civil engineering. All transportation engineers are civil engineers, but not all civil engineers focus on transportation. Civil engineering encompasses structures, water resources, geotechnical work, and environmental systems. Transportation engineering specifically addresses the design and operation of transportation systems. You'll earn a civil engineering degree, then specialize in transportation through elective courses, work experience, or graduate education.
Do I need a PE license to work as a transportation engineer?
You don't technically need a PE license for all transportation engineering positions, but career advancement requires it. Entry-level engineers can work under supervision without licensure. However, you can't sign and seal design documents, take final responsibility for projects, or advance to senior positions without the PE credential. Most employers expect you to pursue licensure even if not immediately required. The four-year experience requirement means the sooner you start, the better.
What's the difference between transportation engineering and transportation planning?
Transportation engineers focus on the technical design and operation of transportation infrastructure, including roadway geometry, signal timing, pavement design, and safety analysis. Transportation planners work at a higher level, analyzing travel patterns, forecasting future demand, and developing long-range plans for transportation networks. Engineers answer, "How do we build this intersection?" Planners answer "what transportation investments should this region make over the next 20 years?" There is some overlap, and many professionals work in both areas throughout their careers.
Can I work remotely as a transportation engineer?
Partial remote work is increasingly common, but fully remote positions are rare. Tasks such as data analysis, traffic modeling, report writing, and design work can be performed anywhere. However, site visits remain essential-you need to observe field conditions, oversee construction, and attend client meetings in person. Most employers now offer hybrid arrangements with 2-3 days in the office. Fully remote work typically requires senior-level expertise and established client relationships.
What software do transportation engineers use most?
Traffic simulation and analysis software dominates: Synchro for signal timing optimization, VISSIM for microsimulation of traffic flow, and Highway Capacity Software (HCS) for operational analysis. Design work requires CAD programs-AutoCAD Civil 3D and Bentley MicroStation are industry standards. GIS software (ArcGIS) is essential for mapping and spatial analysis. You'll also use spreadsheets constantly for calculations and data analysis. Most software training happens on the job rather than in school.
How long does it take to become a licensed transportation engineer?
Plan for a minimum of 8-9 years from starting college to PE licensure. That's four years for your bachelor's degree, immediately passing the FE exam, then four years of qualifying work experience before you're eligible for the PE exam. Some states allow you to sit for the PE after fewer years if you have a master's degree or additional qualifying experience. The timeline extends if you don't pass exams on your first attempt or if your work experience doesn't qualify. Starting the FE exam during your senior year of college keeps you on the fastest track.
What's the most challenging part of being a transportation engineer?
Balancing competing priorities creates constant challenges. Every project involves tradeoffs between safety, cost, environmental impact, community preferences, and technical constraints. A design that's technically optimal might be too expensive or face community opposition. You're rarely making purely technical decisions-political, social, and economic factors always play roles. Additionally, transportation projects move slowly. You might work years on a project before seeing it built. Engineers who need immediate gratification find the extended timelines frustrating.
Key Takeaways
- Education Path: Bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an ABET-accredited program, followed by FE exam, four years of experience, then PE licensure-count on 8-9 years total from college start to full licensure.
- Salary Expectations: Median earnings of $89,940 for civil engineers, with significant variation based on experience, location, and PE licensure. Entry-level positions typically start at $58,000-$72,000, while senior engineers earn $100,000-$140,000+.
- Job Growth: 5% projected growth through 2032, driven by infrastructure investment, population growth, and aging transportation systems requiring rehabilitation and expansion.
- Work Environment: Split time between office (design, modeling, analysis) and field (site visits, construction oversight), primarily with consulting firms or state/local government agencies. Hybrid remote work is increasingly common for office tasks.
- Essential Skills: Strong analytical abilities, proficiency with traffic simulation and CAD software, problem-solving within engineering constraints, clear communication with non-technical audiences, and attention to detail for safety-critical designs.
Ready to start your path toward becoming a transportation engineer? Explore ABET-accredited civil engineering programs and take the first step toward a career shaping how people move through the world.
2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for civil engineers reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.
