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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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.
Project Manager - Dynamic Traffic

Project Manager - Dynamic Traffic

Dynamic Engineering Consultants, PC

Belmar, NJ

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Dynamic Engineering Consultants, P.C., along with our Family of CompaniesDynamic Earth, Dynamic Survey, and Dynamic Traffichas been a leader in land development consulting since 2004. Originally founded in New Jersey, we've expanded nationwide with over 350 employees and 15 offices.
We proudly serve Fortune 500 companies as well as independent owners and developers of all sizes, offering a comprehensive consulting experience that integrates expertise in design and permitting for commercial, industrial, and residential projects.
At Dynamic, we foster a rewarding workplace, investing in our employees with industry-leading training programs that pave the way for growth and advancement.

The Project Manager is responsible for leading technical traffic analysis assignments, supervise the technical production, and operate as project manager for traffic studies and engineering design assignments. This position will partner with the Principal in pursuit of new transportation planning and traffic engineering contracts.


  • Serve as the Project Manager in the development of traffic studies and design plans including infrastructure, traffic signal, roadway lighting, signing, pavement marking, construction sequencing, and traffic control plans.
  • Serve as Project Manager for traffic operations contracts. Develop, maintain and execute project objectives, timelines, goals and budgets.
  • Prepare technical reports such as traffic impact analysis.
  • Conduct project-related communications with clients.
  • Attend project meetings and provide testimony at public hearings.
  • Supervise and manage other engineers and personnel.
  • Assist with major project pursuits, new business development, and local client relationships. Identify potential projects and develop strategies to win these projects.
  • Build and maintain relationships with key traffic engineering and clients.
  • Participate in the local chapter of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and increase Dynamic’s exposure/presence in the local traffic engineering community.
  • Provide technical assistance and quality control oversight on traffic engineering studies and design projects managed by other project managers.
  • Provide traffic engineering support to other divisions of the company as needed.
  • Serve as the technical liaison with clients on project efforts and coordinate technical efforts within the traffic engineering discipline.
  • Assist in the development of marketing strategies for traffic engineering work and related pursuits.
  • Oversee and perform technical operational analysis using programs such as CORSIM, HCS, SYNCHRO, and VISSIM.
  • Prepare written reports and oral presentations related to Traffic Studies, Parking Studies, Operation Analysis and Safety Analysis.
  • Lead and direct sub-consultants as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • 6+ years of experience in traffic/transportation engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) registration required.
  • PTOE is preferred.
  • Experience dealing with regulatory agencies and review professionals.
  • Traffic Signal design and timing experience.
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Software including Word, Excel, Outlook and Project.
  • Familiar with AutoCAD.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Independent and critical thinking abilities.
  • Superior organizational and delegation ability.
  • Ability to work and lead in a team oriented environment with a focus on staff development and mentoring.
  • Client management experience.
  • Experience in managing complex programs and projects.
  • Proven leadership ability.

We strive to provide a great company culture consisting of a variety of team building events: trivia nights, softball and volleyball leagues, mini golf tournaments, BBQs, happy hours, poker nights, catered weekly staff meetings, surfboard lending programs, and much more.
We offer a competitive compensation plan including:
Health Insurance Benefits
Disability and 401k Retirement Accounts
Paid Vacation and Sick Time
Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
Tuition Reimbursement
Pathways for Career Advancement
The salary range for this position is $110k - $125k.
Dynamic is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard for race, color, religion, sex, orientation, gender identity, national origin, veterans status, or any other protected status.

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