Assistant Traffic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $136,800.00 - $177,840.00 Annually
Location : Civic Center, Lake Forest, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 03/12/2026
FLSA: Exempt
Description
The City of Lake Forest is looking for a knowledgeable and motivated Traffic Engineering Manager who is committed to improving transportation safety and mobility for the community. The successful candidate will bring expertise in traffic analysis, roadway design, and traffic operations, along with the ability to identify and implement effective solutions that support a safe and efficient transportation system. This position works closely with City staff, consultants, partner agencies, and community members to deliver projects and address transportation needs. The ideal candidate is collaborative, organized, and able to clearly communicate technical information while maintaining a strong focus on public service.
Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. First review is scheduled for April 2, 2026. Apply early for priority consideration.
Reports to: Director of Public Works / City Engineer
Licenses/Certificates/Special Requirements:
Professional registration with the State of California as a Traffic Engineer or Civil Engineer.
Education/Training/Experience:
A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is graduation from a four-year college or university with a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, traffic engineering, or a closely related field and five years of professional traffic engineering experience, including two years of administrative and supervisory responsibility; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
For full position details, please click the job description:
This position is required to work on-site at the City of Lake Forest City Hall from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday, following a 9/80 work schedule (with every other Friday off). (Note: The incumbent may be eligible to hybrid work one day per week, per department approval).
WORK FOR THE CITY OF LAKE FOREST
A Career That Supports Your Life
The City of Lake Forest offers meaningful public service, career stability, and competitive benefits and compensation package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance.
RETIREMENT
Participation in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS), providing long-term financial stability for your future. "New Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 62" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan "Classic Member" employees are covered by the "2% at 55" option of the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) plan.
HEALTH & INSURANCE BENEFITS

• Medical coverage with the City paying up to 90% of the highest HMO premium of CalPERS medical for employes and dependents.
• City-fully paid dental and vision insurance for employees and dependents
• Cash-in-lieu option for employees with qualifying outside coverage
• Employer-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

PAY FOR PERFORMANCE
The City of Lake Forest utilizes a Pay-for-Performance Compensation Plan, which awards merit increases based on work results achieved against performance targets.
MANAGEMENT LEAVE
Management employees may receive annual management leave of 56 hours (department heads); 40 hours (division managers), or 32 hours (other management employees).
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION ALLOWANCE
Employees are entitled to an annual fiscal year allowance on a reimbursement basis for a physical examination. Department Heads can receive up to $500 and all other employees can receive up to $300.
CELL PHONE ALLOWANCE
Management Team members (i.e., City Manager, Department Heads, Division Managers and Assistant to the City Manager) receive monthly cell phone allowances ranging from $30 - $100.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM
Upon completion of the initial probationary period (or one year), an employee is eligible for reimbursement of tuition for up to $1,500 per fiscal year for approved completed coursework toward a college degree.
STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS
The City of Lake Forest is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, helping eligible employees reduce or eliminate federal student loan debt while serving the community.
WELLNESS & WORK-LIFE BALANCE

• On-site employee gym
• Flexible work schedules may be available depending on position
• Employees depending on the position may be eligible to telecommute one day per week, per department approval.

Note: This is only a summary of fringe benefits available to full-time employees. Complete descriptions and eligibility criteria may be obtained from Human Resources. (6/25)
01
Do you currently possess a 4 year degree from an accredited college or university in Traffic Engineering or Civil Engineering?

• Yes
• No

02
Do you currently possess a valid Traffic Engineer (TE) license and/or a Professional Engineer (PE) license issued by the State of California?

• PE License (Professional Engineer)
• TE License (Traffic Engineer)
• Both PE and TE License
• I do not possess either PE or TE License currently

03
How many years of professional level experience do you have in Traffic or Civil Engineering?

• Less than 5 years of experience
• 5 to 7 years of experience
• 8 to 10 years of experience
• More than 10 years of experience

04
Please describe your experience meeting and resolving conflicts with the public, consultants, contractors and other staff regarding problems, projects and complaints concerning traffic operations and related issues. If no experience, please put "N/A"
05
Describe your experience creating documents for, and presenting at public and/or group meetings. Include in your description the subject matter presented and the purpose of the presentation. If no experience, please put "N/A"
Required Question