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Entry Level Traffic Engineer Jobs in Pawtucket, RI

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services ... traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on ...

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services ... traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on ...

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services ... traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on ...

Backhoe Operator

Stoughton, MA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services ... traffic control, entry level equipment operations, placing fiber, loading materials, etc. on ...

Stage Hand

New Bedford, MA · On-site

$21/hr

... programming. This is not an entry-level position for individuals without practical experience ... Maintain awareness of backstage traffic, overhead work, moving equipment, and live production ...

Entry Level Traffic Engineer information

See Pawtucket, RI salary details

$39.4K

$84.1K

$138.7K

How much do entry level traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level traffic engineer in Pawtucket, RI is $84,055.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $100,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level traffic engineer do?

An entry level traffic engineer assists in the planning, design, and analysis of transportation systems to ensure safe and efficient movement of vehicles and pedestrians. Typical tasks include collecting and analyzing traffic data, helping design traffic signal systems, preparing reports, and using specialized software to model traffic flow. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers and may collaborate with city planners or public officials. This role helps new engineers gain experience with industry standards, safety regulations, and the basics of transportation engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level traffic engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Traffic Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or transportation engineering, along with a solid understanding of traffic flow principles and roadway design. Familiarity with traffic analysis software such as Synchro, VISSIM, and AutoCAD, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and present findings clearly. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate traffic assessments, effective project delivery, and safe, efficient transportation solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level traffic engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level traffic engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret and apply local, state, and federal traffic regulations, adapting to various traffic analysis software, and managing multiple project deadlines simultaneously. They may also find it challenging to communicate technical findings effectively to non-engineering stakeholders or clients. However, working within a supportive team environment and seeking guidance from more experienced engineers can help ease the transition and accelerate professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Traffic Engineer vs Traffic Technician?

AspectEntry Level Traffic EngineerTraffic Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field; Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferredAssociate's degree or technical certification in traffic or civil engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and analysis in engineering firms or government agenciesField data collection, traffic monitoring, and equipment setup
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, consulting firms, transportation agenciesTransportation departments, engineering firms, public works
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Traffic Engineer vs Traffic Technician

While both roles support traffic management, Entry Level Traffic Engineers focus on planning and design, requiring a degree and some certification. Traffic Technicians primarily handle data collection and field tasks, often with technical certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right entry point in the traffic industry.

What cities near Pawtucket, RI are hiring for Entry Level Traffic Engineer jobs?

Cities near Pawtucket, RI with the most Entry Level Traffic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Traffic Engineer job openings in Pawtucket, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,296 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Traffic Design and Safety Engineer (Civil Engineer I)

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Taunton, MA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position Summary

Do you want to use your engineering skills to make a difference in the Commonwealth? Civil, mechanical and environmental engineers who have a passion for transportation are needed for numerous entry level positions throughout the organization. At MassDOT we have positions that require candidates to be on construction sites and others that are in an office setting. 

Our entry level Civil Engineers perform a variety of tasks including preparing and/or reviewing plans, specifications, and cost estimates for MassDOT projects; preparing and/or reviewing reports, studies and analyzing data; performing calculations relating to engineering problems; and performing engineering surveys. 

Duties and Responsibilities

Examples of a day in the life a Civil Engineer I include:

  • Provide technical support during the review of traffic engineering plans, designs, specifications, and cost estimates throughout the design process for MassDOT projects, highway access permits, and mitigation programs for private developments, in accordance with sound engineering principles and practices, applicable regulations, standards, and technical specifications.  

  • Provide technical support during the design and review of traffic signal plans, signal timing and coordination plans, pavement markings, signs, and traffic management plans for all Traffic related activities. 

  • Assist the Design & Safety unit with the Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE) process during preliminary design phases. 

  • Investigate Traffic Design & Safety related requests/concerns, including (but not limited to) truck exclusions, speed zoning, sight distance measurements, sign and pavement marking inventories, and all other requests from State representatives, senators, town officials and private citizens. 

  • Provide technical support during traffic signal inspections to ensure proper operation and compliance with contract documents and accepted standards. 

  • Support the Traffic Operations & Maintenance unit with the review of traffic management plans and shop drawings for signal equipment, mast arms, span wires, etc., for annual maintenance contracts and/or construction projects. 

  • Conduct field reviews of traffic signals, guide signs, and pavement markings to ensure compliance with MassDOT and MUTCD standards and recommend improvements. 

  • Perform traffic engineering analyses. 

  • Prepare work orders for the installation of highway signage. 

  • Support the Traffic Design & Safety unit in the review and application of MassDOT's Supplemental Sign Program. 

  • Work with Traffic Design & Safety staff to support other District sections and Headquarters Traffic & Safety in addressing transportation project challenges and facilitating solutions. 

  • Attend meetings with various internal and external stakeholders. Prepare meeting minutes and summaries. 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Proficiency in various civil engineering software (AutoCAD, GIS, excel, etc.).

  • Ability to work/interact in a diverse workforce.

  • Strong math skills.

  • Excellent grasp of engineering fundamentals.

Our Civil Engineering candidates are able to build a thriving career at MassDOT. With our many CE disciplines such as construction, roadway maintenance, design, bridge, project management, research & materials, the opportunities for career development and promotional opportunities across the organization are endless. Moreover, MassDOT is committed to offering remote flexibility where appropriate so that work/life balance can be further enhanced.

This position is eligible for a five-thousand dollar ($5,000) signing bonus ("Signing Bonus") if you are newly hired at MassDOT. Current MassDOT employees are not eligible for the Signing Bonus. The Signing Bonus will be paid in two parts: 1) $3,000 (less applicable taxes) included in the employee's first paycheck. 2) $2,000 (less applicable taxes) after the successful completion of the employee's probationary period.

About MassDOT

The 4,000 employees of Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) take great pride in connecting the Commonwealth's residents and communities. MassDOT is responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating transportation policies and projects for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and to efficiently plan, design, construct, and maintain a safe statewide transportation system which effectively meets the transportation needs of the Commonwealth. Information about MassDOT's culture and career opportunities can be found at mass.gov/massdot-careers.

MassDOT's divisions include Highway, Registry of Motor Vehicles, Aeronautics, and Rail & Transit. Headquarters (Planning & Enterprise Services) provides business and administrative support and policy leadership for each of the four (4) divisions. 

Minimum Entrance Requirements

This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Current MassDOT employees should use their internal MassCareers account to apply.

All job applications must be submitted online through MassCareers to be considered.

Please provide a complete, accurate and current resume / application for MassDOT to review in order to determine if your submitted materials meet the minimum entrance requirements for the position.

Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, technical or professional experience in civil engineering work in such areas as construction, survey, design, transportation, hydraulics, structural, sanitary, drafting, environmental, highway, architectural, airport, soils and materials or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Substitutions

I.  An Associate's degree with a major in civil engineering** or civil engineering technology** may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required experience.*

II. A Bachelor's or higher degree with a major in civil engineering** or civil engineering technology**, may be substituted for the required experience.*

**NOTE: The terms civil engineering and civil engineering technology include related engineering disciplines such as construction, survey, hydraulics, design, transportation, structural, soils, sanitary, environmental, drafting, highway, architectural, mining, airport and materials.

*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License may be required.

  • For questions regarding the job posting, please email the MassDOT Talent Acquisition Team at talentacquisition@dot.state.ma.us.

  • For general questions regarding MassDOT, call the Human Resources Service Center at 8573684722.

  • For a disabilityrelated reasonable accommodation or alternative application method, call the ADA Coordinator, Lucy Bayard, at 8572741935.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.