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Principal Traffic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RICK ENGINEERING COMPANY

Traffic Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

As a Principal Traffic Engineer/Manager in Riverside, CA you will have an opportunity to work with a multi-disciplinary team on meaningful, landmark projects in the Inland Empire, CA area. As a RICK ...

Town of Queen Creek, AZ

Traffic Engineer, Principal

AZ · On-site

$111K - $161K/yr

The position oversees traffic engineering activities by analyzing, interpreting and performing engineering plan design, review, and field inspections, and by designing and coordinating construction ...

WSP

Traffic Engineer

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

$80K - $109K/yr

Prior demonstrated knowledge and experience with DOT traffic signal design principals. * Knowledge of traffic engineering principles, practices, process, and design/build related to traffic control ...

Hernando County, FL

Traffic Engineer

Brooksville, FL · On-site

$86K - $125K/yr

Examples of Duties The following statements describe the principal functions of this job and its ... Performs engineering investigations, traffic studies, and feasibility studies and prepares clear ...

Hernando County, FL

Traffic Engineer

Brooksville, FL

$86K - $125K/yr

Examples of Duties The following statements describe the principal functions of this job and its ... Performs engineering investigations, traffic studies, and feasibility studies and prepares clear ...

Hernando County, FL

Traffic Engineer

Brooksville, FL

$70K - $96K/yr

Serves as program manager for the County's traffic engineering program. Performs field surveys and ... The following statements describe the principal functions of this job and its scope of ...

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All JobsPrincipal Traffic Engineer Jobs

Principal Traffic Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Senior or Principal Engineer - Traffic

Toole Design

Columbus, OH • On-site

$121K - $167K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Toole Design, we're leading the way in creating safer, more connected communities through sustainable multimodal transportation design. We're looking for a Senior or Principal Traffic Engineer to join our Columbus, OH team, someone who's excited to lead traffic engineering design and analysis, to create resilient, multimodal networks reflecting our mission and values.

Why You'll Love Working Here

We're not just another firm, we're a purpose-driven team of engineers, planners, landscape architects, and urban designers who believe streets should work for everyone. At Toole Design, you'll work alongside thought leaders and industry experts who are committed to mentoring and helping you grow your expertise. We offer:

  • A collaborative, inclusive culture that supports your growth and advancement
  • A hybrid schedule with shared team days in office (Tu/W/Th)
  • 8 paid holidays; and at least 16 days of PTO accrual annually
  • Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and transportation perks: Benefits and Supports
  • Projects that truly improve lives through safe, inclusive design rooted in ethics, empathy, and equity
What You'll Do

As a Senior or Principal Traffic Engineer, you will lead creative, data-driven solutions to make streets safer-designing traffic signals, pavement markings, signage, and traffic calming plans, while diving into traffic and safety studies or mentoring junior staff along the way. From corridor studies to Safe Routes to School, you'll use tools like Synchro, Highway Capacity Software, MicroStation, and AutoCAD to turn ideas into action. In Ohio, the Midwest and across the country, you'll help shape safer, more sustainable multimodal infrastructure in a wide range of communities-working alongside a collaborative team that genuinely cares about the work and the people it serves. You'll contribute to business development and build your reputation as a trusted expert at a company that believes in promoting from within.

What You Bring
  • A Professional Engineering license in OH (other Midwest states a plus)
  • Proficiency in one or more of the following: MicroStation, Synchro, Highway Capacity Software, AutoCAD, SIDRA, and/or VISSIM
  • Interest in multimodal, safety, and active transportation design
  • Experience developing conceptual designs for intersections and corridors
  • Understanding of MUTCD standards at the state and federal level
  • Understanding of basic geometric design principles of roadways and industry roadway design standards
  • Experience developing construction documents and cost estimates
  • 10+ years of experience (Senior Engineer), 15+ years of experience (Principal Engineer)

It would be a plus if you have any of the following:

  • 5+ years managing projects and/or design work, developing traffic engineering design plans, operational and safety analyses, and/or design documents (signing and pavement marking, maintenance of traffic, traffic signals)
  • Experience with MicroStation OpenRoads
  • An interest in managing and mentoring staff
  • Bonus: PTOE, Complete Streets, bikeway, and crossing design, construction support services, Agi32 lighting design, experience supervising staff
  • Experience in business development, including networking at public, agency, and industry events (e.g., ACEC, ITE, ASHE, ASCE)

Join Us. Make an Impact.
We're proud to be an ENR Top 500 design firm with one of the lowest turnover rates in the industry. If you're ready to do meaningful work with a supportive, talented team-apply today. Questions, assistance or accommodations? Contact HR@tooledesign.com or call 301-927-1900, press 5.

At Toole Design, we foster a collaborative culture and welcome people of all backgrounds to help build more inclusive communities. We strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented communities – women, people of color, LGBTQIA+, immigrants, first-generation college students/graduates, those with disabilities and people at all the intersections in between – to apply. We're proud that about half our managers are women and we are committed to diverse leadership that reflects the communities we serve. Toole Design is a woman-owned, equal opportunity employer (EO/AA/VEV/Disabled employer).

For more information about Toole Design, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro