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Senior Traffic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Traffic Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Senior Traffic Engineer - Sacramento, CA Relocation Assistance provided Pay Range $150,000.00 Annually to $190,000.00 Annually Seeking a Senior Traffic Engineer to join and help lead our expanding ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Napa, CA · On-site

$164K - $198K/yr

THE CITY OF NAPA IS HIRING A SENIOR TRAFFIC ENGINEER. THE COMMUNITY Imagine living and working in the beautiful wine country of Napa Valley. Napa is the largest city and the county seat of Napa ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Napa, CA · On-site

$164K - $198K/yr

THE CITY OF NAPA IS HIRING A SENIOR TRAFFIC ENGINEER! THE COMMUNITY Imagine living and working in the beautiful wine country of Napa Valley! Napa is the largest city and the county seat of Napa ...

Sr. Traffic Engineer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$125 - $166/hr

Sr. Traffic Engineer, Smart Mobility TransportationJobs with David Evans and Associates: At David Evans and Associates, Inc., our Transportation team blends innovation, sustainability, and a ...

CA · On-site

$146K - $178K/yr

The Senior Traffic Engineer: Leads the Traffic Engineering team in administering the County's traffic operations program. Reviews roadway construction plans and recommends changes related to traffic ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

Senior Traffic Engineer Full Time 2 Professionals Irvine, CA, US Salary Range: $130,000.00 To $170,000.00 Annually We are currently seeking resumes from qualified, responsible, self‑sufficient ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$110K - $177K/yr

The City of Oxnard's Public Works Department, Engineering Division, is seeking a Senior Traffic Engineer with strong technical and customer service skills to be part of the team. The ideal candidate ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

In the role of Senior Traffic Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide design oversight for the production of roadway, lighting, signing, pavement marking, traffic signals and traffic management ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

In the role of Senior Traffic Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide design oversight for the production of roadway, lighting, signing, pavement marking, traffic signals and traffic management ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

In the role of Senior Traffic Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Provide design oversight for the production of roadway, lighting, signing, pavement marking, traffic signals and traffic management ...

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Senior Traffic Engineer information

See California salary details

$58.7K

$124.9K

$181.1K

How much do senior traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior traffic engineer in California is $124,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior traffic engineer do?

A Senior Traffic Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and managing traffic flow and transportation systems within urban and suburban environments. They analyze traffic patterns, develop solutions to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and improve overall transportation efficiency. Their work includes preparing technical reports, coordinating with government agencies, and overseeing the implementation of traffic control devices such as signals, signs, and road markings. Senior Traffic Engineers also mentor junior staff and ensure that projects meet regulatory requirements and industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior traffic engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Traffic Engineer, you need expertise in traffic engineering principles, transportation planning, and a degree in civil engineering, often accompanied by Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with technical tools such as Synchro, VISSIM, AutoCAD, and traffic analysis software is crucial. Strong project management, leadership, and communication skills help you manage teams and effectively interact with stakeholders. These competencies ensure the delivery of safe, efficient, and innovative transportation solutions in complex urban environments.

What are some common challenges faced by senior traffic engineers when implementing new traffic management solutions?

Senior Traffic Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of various stakeholders—including city planners, public safety officials, and residents—while ensuring compliance with regulations and budget constraints. Coordinating with multiple agencies and adapting to rapidly changing urban environments can also be complex. Additionally, integrating new technologies or data-driven solutions requires ongoing collaboration and communication within multidisciplinary teams to ensure successful project implementation.

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

AspectSenior Traffic EngineerTraffic Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license, 5+ years experienceBachelor's degree in civil engineering, entry-level to 2 years experience
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, mentoring, complex traffic planningAssisting with traffic studies, data collection, basic analysis
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, government agencies, transportation departmentsMunicipalities, engineering firms, transportation agencies

The main difference between a Senior Traffic Engineer and a Traffic Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Traffic Engineers typically have more years of experience, hold a PE license, and oversee complex projects, while Traffic Engineers are often entry-level or early-career professionals focusing on data collection and basic analysis. Both roles are essential in transportation planning and are commonly found in similar work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Traffic Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Traffic Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Traffic Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Traffic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Traffic Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,900 per year, or $60 per hour.

Senior Traffic Engineer

Techoundsllc

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Senior Traffic Engineer – Sacramento, CA

Relocation Assistance provided

Pay Range

$150,000.00 Annually to $190,000.00 Annually

Seeking a Senior Traffic Engineer to join and help lead our expanding team in Sacramento. This position offers the opportunity to work on various public infrastructure and private development projects, including Signal Designs, Pedestrian/Roadway Safety, Multi-modal Operations, Work Zone Traffic Control, and Roadway Lighting Design.

Position Summary:

As a Senior Traffic Engineer, you will take on the responsibility of preparing traffic studies and designs with minimal supervision. You will work collaboratively with team members to produce high-quality deliverables and contribute to the growth and success of our team. Additionally, you will supervise traffic engineers in their preparation of traffic studies and designs and manage traffic-related projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and meet client expectations. You will also prepare traffic engineering plans, specifications, and cost estimates (PS&E) for various infrastructure projects, as well as draft proposals for traffic engineering projects. This role involves a key focus on strategic planning, budgeting, and client communication. It is an excellent opportunity for a motivated leader.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Manage work scope, schedule, and budget of traffic engineering design projects
  • Prepare plans, specifications, and construction cost estimates for traffic signals, lighting, ramp metering, transportation electrical systems, signing, pavement delineation, and construction stage traffic handling
  • Prepare traffic operations analysis to support traffic design projects
  • Prepare proposals for traffic engineering design projects
Requirements
  • BS in Civil or Electrical Engineering
  • Registered as a Professional Engineer in Civil, Electrical, or Traffic Engineering. preferably in California. If registered outside California, it is expected to be registered in California within 2 years
  • 10+ years of experience in preparing plans, specifications, and cost estimates for traffic signals, lighting, ramp metering, transportation electrical systems, signing, pavement delineation, and construction stage traffic handling
  • Effective communication skills, written and verbal
Technical Skills
  • Proficiency in using MicroStation and/or AutoCAD
  • Knowledge of using AGI and/or VISUAL photometric analysis software
  • Knowledge of using Auto-Turn software
  • Knowledge of using Synchro and SimTraffic traffic analysis software
Benefits
  • Work Flexibility:Flexible Work Schedules, Telework Capabilities
  • Health:Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life and Long-Term Disability Policies
  • 401K Retirement/Profit Sharing:Company Matched Contributions to Roth and/or Traditional 401K, Access to a Financial Advisor
  • Paid Time Off:Minimum 15 days Paid Time Off, 5 days Paid Sick Leave, 9 Paid Holidays
  • Professional Growth Paid Training:Salary increases for attaining P.E., In-House Training Academy, Professional Memberships
  • Personal Fulfillment:Employee Recognition Program, Teambuilding Activities, Community Outreach Participation, Fun Work Environment!
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