Transportation Engineer

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  Architecture and Engineering Occupations

Transportation Engineer

Also Called: Engineer, Project Engineer, Rail Engineer, Roadway Designer, Roadway Engineer, State Roadway Design Engineer, Traffic Engineer, Traffic Operations Engineer, Transportation Engineer, Engineer, Project Engineer, Rail Engineer, Roadway Designer, Roadway Engineer, State Roadway Design Engineer, Traffic Engineer, Traffic Operations Engineer, Transportation Engineer

What they do

Develop plans for surface transportation projects, according to established engineering standards and state or federal construction policy. Prepare designs, specifications, or estimates for transportation facilities. Plan modifications of existing streets, highways, or freeways to improve traffic flow.

$63,220
Starting Salary (2023)
$95,890
Median Salary (2023)
5.0%
Projected Job Growth
327,950
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Check construction plans, design calculations, or cost estimations to ensure completeness, accuracy, or conformity to engineering standards or practices.
Confer with contractors, utility companies, or government agencies to discuss plans, specifications, or work schedules.
Design or prepare plans for new transportation systems or parts of systems, such as airports, commuter trains, highways, streets, bridges, drainage structures, or roadway lighting.
Design transportation systems or structures with sustainable materials or products, such as porous pavement or bioretention structures.
Estimate transportation project costs.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Cooperation
Initiative
Dependability

What key skills are needed for this job?

Writing
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Mathematics
Complex Problem Solving

Expected Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.

Common Activities

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

More Info

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