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Principal Traffic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RICK

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Principal Traffic Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$62.50 - $79.25/hr

As an Principal Traffic Engineer in San Diego, CA, you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the San Diego region. As a RICK team member ...

City of Santa Monica

Traffic Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$127K - $157K/yr

SUPERVISION Works under the administrative supervision of the Principal Traffic Engineer. May supervise, oversee, or coordinate the work of assigned staff, contractors, and consultants.

City of Sunnyvale

Traffic Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

This position will support our Transportation Special Projects team, working closely with a Principal Transportation Engineer and a Senior Traffic Engineer primarily on the delivery of large-scale ...

City of Sunnyvale, CA

Traffic Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$62.94 - $80.33/hr

This position will support our Transportation Special Projects team, working closely with a Principal Transportation Engineer and a Senior Traffic Engineer primarily on the delivery of large-scale ...

City of Federal Way

Traffic Engineer

Federal Way, WA

$105K - $133K/yr

Basic Function The first review of applications will be on July 16th Under the direction of the Principal Transportation Engineer, the Traffic Engineer's responsibilities include performing ...

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Principal Traffic Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal traffic engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Traffic Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Traffic Engineer, you need advanced expertise in traffic engineering principles, transportation planning, and a professional engineering (PE) license, often supported by a degree in civil engineering. Familiarity with traffic analysis software (such as Synchro, VISSIM, and AutoCAD), MUTCD standards, and state/local regulations is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure effective oversight of complex projects, stakeholder coordination, and the delivery of safe, efficient transportation systems.

How does a Principal Traffic Engineer typically collaborate with other departments and stakeholders on large-scale projects?

A Principal Traffic Engineer regularly works with a diverse range of teams, including urban planners, civil engineers, government agencies, and community representatives. Collaboration is essential for integrating traffic solutions with broader infrastructure and urban development goals. The role often involves leading meetings, coordinating multidisciplinary input, and ensuring that traffic engineering considerations are aligned with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. This collaborative environment fosters innovative solutions and helps ensure the successful delivery of complex transportation projects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Traffic Engineers in large metropolitan areas or with extensive experience and specialized skills can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and benefits. Such high compensation typically reflects senior-level positions requiring advanced certifications, leadership responsibilities, and significant industry expertise.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Principal Traffic Engineers, a specialized civil engineering role, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, consulting roles, or work in high-cost-of-living areas, but such earnings are not typical for all civil engineers.

What does a Principal Traffic Engineer do?

A Principal Traffic Engineer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and implementation of traffic engineering projects. They analyze traffic flow, develop solutions to improve road safety and efficiency, and lead teams of engineers and technical staff. Their work often involves coordinating with government agencies, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations and standards. Principal Traffic Engineers also provide expert guidance on traffic management strategies and may be involved in public consultations on major infrastructure projects.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Principal Traffic Engineers and other senior engineering roles in transportation, civil, or systems engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and employer size, with some positions in consulting firms or government agencies reaching this level.

What is the difference between Principal Traffic Engineer vs Traffic Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Traffic EngineerTraffic Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Civil or Transportation Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil or Transportation Engineering, PE license beneficial but not always required
Work EnvironmentLeadership role overseeing projects, strategic planning, and team managementProject execution, data analysis, and design tasks under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting firms, government agencies, and large infrastructure projectsCommon in municipal agencies, consulting firms, and private sector projects

The main difference between a Principal Traffic Engineer and a Traffic Engineer lies in their level of responsibility and experience. The Principal Traffic Engineer typically holds a leadership role, focusing on strategic planning and project oversight, while the Traffic Engineer handles more technical, execution-focused tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Principal position involves greater managerial duties and industry influence.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Traffic Engineers in large organizations or consulting firms can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with senior roles that involve complex traffic systems, data analysis, and project management.
What cities are hiring for Principal Traffic Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Principal Traffic Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Traffic Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Principal Traffic Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Principal Traffic Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Traffic Engineer jobs include:
Principal Traffic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Traffic Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.
Principal Traffic Engineer

Principal Traffic Engineer

RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY

San Diego, CA • On-site

$62.50 - $79.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Rick Engineering Company (RICK) is seeking a confident, Principal Traffic Engineer to join our Traffic Division for our San Diego office.

If you are looking for a place to grow your career and make a difference – RICK is the place for you! As an Principal Traffic Engineer in Southern California, you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the San Diego region. As a RICK team member, you will help clients and communities turn their dreams into reality. You will learn from and work alongside industry-leading experts and together shape the future of tomorrow. RICK offers career progression opportunites with a pathway to ownership potential.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidate will have a BSCE degree, California Registration as a Professional Civil Engineer or Traffic Engineer, plus a minimum of 7 years experience in traffic engineering/planning or the equivalent of 12 years in the industry. Candidate must have a minimum 5 years management experience supervising the work of traffic designers/planners and CAD drafters/technicians.

Supervising the work of traffic designers and CAD drafters/technicians.

Candidate for this position must demonstrate strong independent thought and decision-making abilities; possess demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills; exhibit management ability; be adept in establishing and maintaining strong and positive working relationships with clients/public-agency personnel, and in-house staff.

Candidate shall have recent Southern California experience, preferably in the San Diego County region.

Candidate’s managerial experience shall also include the following: supervision of traffic engineering design teams; management of project schedules and budgets; preparation of contracts, fee proposals, and scopes of work; and experience in client and public-agency interactions.

Candidate’s technical experience shall include the following: providing municipal traffic engineering services, including in-house services, preparation/processing of final traffic engineering plans (traffic signals, traffic control plans, signing/striping plans, etc.), preparation of Traffic Impact Analysis, and various traffic related studies and reports. Experience in transit planning and design is a plus.

Position generally requires extensive experience and demonstrated engineering abilities in all aspects of traffic engineering and planning projects; and in interacting comfortably and productively with clients and public agencies. It is desired that the Candidate be experienced in HCS, Vistro, Synchro, and other traffic related software, as well as the California Vehicle Code (CVC), MUTCD, and familiar with Highway Capacity Manual.

What We Offer

Generous Benefits package

Medical, Dental, Vision, Profit Sharing, 401K, and Life and Disability Insurance and Personal Leave

Alternative Work Schedule

Holiday Parties, Team Building Activities and Events

At RICK you will find an abundance of opportunities for mentorship, growth, and (of course) fun! Learn more by visiting www.rickengineering.com

RICK Engineering Company (RICK) is an Equal Opportunity

RICK employees are protected by laws designed to protect employees from discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other non-merit-based factor. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, and training and career development programs. RICK employees are also protected against retaliation if they engage in a protected activity, whistleblowing, or the exercise of any appeal or grievance right provided by law.