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Entry Level Transportation Planning Jobs in Virginia

AECOM

Entry-level Structural Engineer

Roanoke, VA · Hybrid

... over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and ... transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create ...

AECOM

Entry-level Structural Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

... over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and ... transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create ...

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All JobsTransportation Planning JobsEntry Level Transportation Planning JobsEntry Level Transportation Planning Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Transportation Planning information

See Virginia salary details

$33.2K

$74.1K

$122.4K

How much do entry level transportation planning jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level transportation planning in Virginia is $74,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level transportation planner?

Entry level transportation planners are professionals who assist in designing, analyzing, and improving transportation systems such as roads, transit, and pedestrian pathways. They typically work for government agencies, consulting firms, or private companies under the supervision of more experienced planners. Their duties often include data collection, conducting studies, preparing reports, and supporting public engagement efforts. Entry level roles are ideal for recent graduates with degrees in urban planning, civil engineering, or related fields.

What types of projects do entry level transportation planners typically work on, and how do they contribute to the planning team?

Entry level transportation planners often support senior staff by gathering and analyzing data, assisting with field surveys, preparing maps, and contributing to community outreach efforts. They may work on projects such as traffic studies, transit planning, or pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements. Collaboration with engineers, GIS specialists, and public stakeholders is common, providing valuable exposure to multidisciplinary teamwork. This hands-on experience helps new planners build foundational skills and understand the broader context of transportation systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level transportation planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Transportation Planner, you typically need a degree in urban planning, civil engineering, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with GIS software, traffic modeling tools, and data analysis systems is often required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively with stakeholders and present findings clearly. These skills and qualities are vital for developing efficient transportation solutions that address community needs and support sustainable urban growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Transportation Planning vs Transportation Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Transportation PlanningTransportation Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in similar fields; often requires analytical skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, urban planning departmentsTransportation companies, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in public sector and planning agenciesUsed across transportation, logistics, and infrastructure sectors
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in transportation planningCompared for analytical and data-driven transportation roles

Entry Level Transportation Planning focuses on developing transportation projects, planning routes, and understanding urban infrastructure. Transportation Analysts analyze data, optimize transportation systems, and support decision-making. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, transportation analysts tend to focus more on data analysis and modeling, whereas transportation planners emphasize planning and project development.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Transportation Planning jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Transportation Planning job openings:

Entry Level Transportation Planning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Transportation Planning job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,060 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

99033 - Eng Associate EDGE

Virginia Department of Transportation

Bristol, VA • On-site

$71K - $76K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 855 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Equip entry-level individuals to fill designated critical engineering roles and contribute effective results to the organization. The individual in this position participates in the Employee Development Growth Experience (EDGE) Program for Civil Engineers, and through the program, applies their engineering studies as a competent VDOT engineer. Development entails the technical and leadership competencies that are required for an Architect Engineer I in one of the following engineering disciplines - Location and Design, Materials, Residency Operations, Construction, Structure and Bridge, Maintenance, Environmental, Transportation Planning and Traffic Engineering Operations. Perform special duties as assigned. Provide technical advice, guidance and training regarding assigned engineering program areas. Prepare analyses, reports, and recommendations based on engineering determinations. Provide engineering support and consultation related to engineering program area. Effectively manage assigned projects to ensure timely and accurate completion. Communicate with internal VDOT staff, local government staff, consultants, citizens and FHWA regarding transportation projects and programs.
How you will contribute:
  • Analysis and Technical Reporting: Analyze and interpret engineering data and information. Prepare complete, clear and concise reports and recommendations.
  • Communication: Establish an effective line of communication between VDOT, contractors, government agencies and the public. Investigate issues and resolve complaints.
  • Construction: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Construction functional area to include field inspections and project documentation.
  • Engineering Process Management: Use established VDOT policies and procedures in the development and delivery of engineering projects. Engineering projects are completed in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Environmental: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Environmental functional area to include its role, function and responsibilities.
  • Maintenance: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Maintenance functional area to include maintenance systems and maintenance activities.
  • Manage Assigned Activities: Plan, schedule and coordinate engineering program activities such that deliverables are met within the established scope and timeline.
  • Materials: Demonstrates a general knowledge of materials to include quality assurance, pavement, and geotechnical engineering.
  • Planning: Demonstrates a general knowledge of transportation planning to include its role, function and responsibilities.
  • Project Engineering: Assist in the management of projects and tasks including development of and managing the scope, schedule, budget, deliverables, change management, quality, and status reports. Complete multiple concurrent tasks and assignments, and report updates on their status.
  • Residency Operations: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of residency operations to include budget and preliminary engineering, land development, construction, and maintenance.
  • Right of Way: Demonstrates a general knowledge of Right of Way to include its role function and responsibilities.
  • Roadway Design: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of roadway principles and practices, including the project development process, geometric design application, quality control, safety issues, engineering economics, environmental considerations, and construction techniques. Develop roadway designs for a wide range of complex transportation projects.
  • Special Assignments: Manage special program initiatives and projects as assigned. Serve and represent VDOT or assigned program area on various committees and work groups.
  • Structure and Bridge: Demonstrates a general knowledge of structure and bridge to include preliminary design, bridge safety inspection, and bridge maintenance.
  • Teamwork and Customer Service: Demonstrates customer service and work habits that reflect the VDOT Values, and coordinates the flow of information both orally and in writing.
  • Traffic Engineering and Operations: Demonstrates a general knowledge of traffic engineering and operations.

    • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and practices.
  • Ability to apply the knowledge to complete projects and other tasks.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse groups.
  • Ability to draw rational conclusions and develop solutions from analysis; make independent decisions; and manage multiple assignments.
  • Ability to enforce and demonstrate safety behaviors, as well as advocate and practice safety in everyday work activities.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to interpret technical data and prepare and maintain detailed reports.
  • Ability to make decisions, as well as determine more efficient processes to produce results and maximize resources.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities with competing deadlines and limited resources.
  • Ability to negotiate outcomes and work with diverse customer groups.
  • Ability to provide detailed reports on review findings.
  • Ability to read and understand highway construction plans.
  • Knowledge engineering specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of Civil Engineering principles as they relate to roadway design and Standard Design technical knowledge, ensuring compliance with VDOT Standards.
  • Knowledge of VDOT, state, and federal policies and procedures relating to transportation engineering.
  • Knowledge of construction and maintenance contract policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of project management procedures and principles.
  • Knowledge of roadway design criteria, construction methods, standards, specifications and materials.
  • Skill in providing and promoting good customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include MS Office, project management and engineering software programs.

    • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to apply engineering knowledge to complete projects and other tasks.
  • Ability to make independent decisions, as well as determine more efficient processes to produce results and maximize resources.
  • Ability to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (F.E.) and obtain the Engineering in Training (EIT) designation within 12 months of employment.
  • Have or will have completed at least a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology or related degree from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) program by the start of employment.
  • Knowledge of construction and maintenance contract policies and procedures.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of employment.
  • Skill in basic computer operations.

    • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Civil Engineering, or related field desired.
  • Experience in design technology, interpreting technical plans and specifications.
  • Experience in roadway design and geometric design application.
  • Experience in roadway transportation.
  • Possess Engineer in Training (EIT) designation at time of employment.

    • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements

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