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Traffic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Traffic Engineer III

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Traffic Engineer III Department: Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Los Angeles, CA Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 / year Description Engineer III - Traffic Alta is looking for an ...

Traffic Engineer

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$127K - $157K/yr

Analyzes the impacts of proposed developer traffic mitigation strategies. Conducts or oversees studies and prepares reports and correspondence related to traffic control issues; presents associated ...

Traffic Engineer III

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Traffic Engineer III Department: Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Ontario, California Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 / year Description Engineer III - Traffic Alta is looking for ...

Traffic Engineer III

Ontario, CA ยท Hybrid

$88K - $120K/yr

Engineer III - Traffic Alta is looking for an Traffic Engineer III to join our traffic group in our Ontario / Inland Empire office. In this role, you will support and lead traffic engineering ...

Traffic Engineer III

Los Angeles, CA ยท Hybrid

$100K - $130K/yr

Engineer III - Traffic Alta is looking for an Traffic Engineer III to join our traffic group in our Los Angeles office. In this role, you will support and lead traffic engineering analysis, safety ...

$130K - $165K/yr

Principal Traffic Engineer Location: San Diego, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Principal Traffic Engineer to join our Traffic Division in San Diego, CA.

New

Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Perform traffic analysis, studies, preliminary engineering, transportation planning, and develop final design plans for traffic signals, ITS, lighting, signing, pavement marking, traffic handling ...

DESCRIPTION The department of Public Works currently has one (1) opening available for City Traffic Engineer in the Transportation Services Bureau - Traffic Engineering Division. Compensation will be ...

Principal Traffic Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$130 - $165/hr

Our Client seeking an experienced Principal Traffic Engineer to join Traffic Division in San Diego, CA. This role is designed for a highly skilled transportation professional who can provide ...

New

Senior Traffic Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท 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 ...

Principal Traffic Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Our Client seeking an experienced Principal Traffic Engineer to join Traffic Division in San Diego, CA. This role is designed for a highly skilled transportation professional who can provide ...

New

Our Client seeking an experienced Principal Traffic Engineer to join Traffic Division in San Diego, CA. This role is designed for a highly skilled transportation professional who can provide ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Traffic Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$101.6K

$139.2K

How much do traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic engineer in California is $101,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $116,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a traffic engineer do?

A Traffic Engineer is a professional who designs, analyzes, and manages roadways, intersections, and traffic systems to ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and vehicles. They use traffic modeling, data analysis, and engineering principles to solve congestion problems, enhance road safety, and plan future transportation infrastructure. Traffic Engineers often collaborate with urban planners, government agencies, and construction teams to implement solutions such as traffic signals, signage, and roadway improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a traffic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Traffic Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering, traffic flow analysis, and transportation planning, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with traffic simulation software (e.g., Synchro, VISSIM), CAD tools, and knowledge of MUTCD standards are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help in collaborating with stakeholders and addressing complex transportation challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing safe, efficient transportation systems that meet community needs and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges traffic engineers face when working on urban infrastructure projects?

Traffic Engineers working on urban infrastructure projects often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of various road users, addressing congestion in densely populated areas, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders including city planners, public transit authorities, and the community. They must also navigate evolving regulations and integrate new technologies like smart traffic signals. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as project priorities may shift based on public feedback or unforeseen construction issues.

What is the difference between Traffic Engineer vs Transportation Planner?

AspectTraffic EngineerTransportation Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or related field, PE license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning traffic systems, analyzing traffic flow, working on road safety projectsDeveloping transportation plans, analyzing mobility needs, working on urban development
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, transportation agencies, consulting firmsUrban planning agencies, government departments, consulting firms

Traffic Engineers focus on designing and optimizing traffic systems and safety measures, while Transportation Planners develop broader transportation strategies and urban mobility plans. Both roles require related credentials and often collaborate on infrastructure projects, but their primary focus and scope differ.

Is traffic engineer a good career?

A traffic engineer designs and manages transportation systems, focusing on improving traffic flow and safety. The profession typically requires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, licensure, and strong analytical skills; job prospects are generally stable with opportunities for advancement in government and consulting firms.

What is the role of a traffic engineer?

A traffic engineer designs, analyzes, and manages transportation systems to improve traffic flow and safety. They assess traffic patterns, develop signal timing plans, and ensure compliance with transportation regulations, often using tools like traffic simulation software. Certification and knowledge of roadway design are typically required for this role.

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 job categories do people searching Traffic Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Traffic Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Traffic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Traffic Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $101,599 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Traffic Engineer III

Trilon Group

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Traffic Engineer III
Department: Engineering
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 / year
Description
Engineer III - Traffic
Alta is looking for an Traffic Engineer III to join our traffic group in our Los Angeles office. In this role, you will support and lead traffic engineering analysis, safety and planning studies, and design tasks for sustainable transportation projects focused on making a positive impact on communities around the country.
About AltaAlta is a missionโ€‘driven company working to mitigate climate change and advance safety and social justice by shaping sustainable, peopleโ€‘centered communities. We bring together expertise across planning, design, engineering, education and encouragement programs, and community engagement to help communities thrive. Our work is grounded in the belief that how places are designed and experienced has a profound impact on equity, health, and opportunity-and that people should always be at the heart of those decisions.
Founded in 1996, Alta was at the forefront of the active transportation movement and has spent nearly 30 years partnering with communities to imagine a more connected, resilient, and inclusive future. Today, with more than 225 staff across the United States and beyond, we are a global leader in creating environments that support everyday life, strengthen human connection, and respond to the challenges of a changing world. Alta offers the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines, contribute to meaningful work at every scale, and be part of a team committed to making lasting, positive change for people and the places they call home.
Day to Day
Day-to-day responsibilities for this role include:
  • Lead and support conceptual design plans and engineering-backed recommendations in partnership with safety, planning, and design teams.
  • Conduct multimodal traffic engineering analyses, including traffic operations, safety assessments, corridor/intersection studies, signal operations review, and traffic simulation/modeling.
  • Prepare traffic signal timing and retiming evaluations, including signal timing sheets and implementation support as needed.
  • Develop cost estimates for safety, planning, and engineering projects.
  • Develop traffic signal plans, street lighting plans, ITS design, signing/striping layouts, temporary traffic control plans (TCPs), and PS&E packages using AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Apply MUTCD, Caltrans, NACTO, FHWA, and local agency standards to analysis findings and design solutions.
  • Collaborate with engineers and planners to integrate bicycle, pedestrian, transit, accessibility, and safety enhancements into projects.
  • Support quality control, constructability review, and coordination with clients and partner disciplines.
  • Mentor junior staff in traffic analysis, design best practices, and project delivery.
  • Implement best practices and process improvements to enhance project efficiency and consistency.
  • Support traffic group leadership with business development, scopes, fee estimates, proposals, and client coordination.

Qualifications
Required
  • 5+ years of experience as a traffic engineer in a consulting environment or public entity.
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or MicroStation.
  • Proficiency in Synchro, Vistro, VISSIM, SIDRA, and/or similar traffic analysis tools.
  • Strong understanding of traffic analysis, traffic operations, multimodal safety, and engineering design principles.
  • Demonstrated experience preparing Plans, Specifications, and Estimates packages for traffic design-related projects, including traffic signals, signing and striping, TCPs, ITS, and/or street lighting.
  • Ability to manage competing priorities and multiple simultaneous projects with cross-functional teams.
  • Strong written and oral communication and presentation skills.
  • Working knowledge of MS Excel, Word, MS Project, or equivalent tools.

There are a number of additional skills, experience, and education that would be beneficial to this position including, but not limited to:
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer in the state where the position is based, or ability to obtain within twelve months of hire; PTOE or California T.E. certification a plus.
  • Transportation planning and operations experience, including signal timing, multimodal corridor studies, safety action plans, Vision Zero initiatives, or Safe System projects.
  • Experience in active and non-motorized transportation planning and design.
  • Experience supporting traffic operations analysis using Synchro, VISSIM, Vistro, SIDRA, or similar tools.
  • Proficiency in AGI and/or Visual Lighting.
  • Experience supporting grant-funded or federally funded safety and mobility projects.
  • Active participation in industry-relevant professional associations and committees.

What We Offer
Flexible Schedule
Alta offers a flexible, hybrid work schedule where most employees work from home three days per week. In-office days support our collaborative culture, one of our core values.
Compensation
The pay range for this job in Los Angeles is $100,000-$130,000 annually. Placement within the range is based upon experience, skill-sets, and qualifications.
Benefits
Alta offers comprehensive benefits to all full-time employees:
  • Medical: PPO or HSA medical plans
  • Dental/Vision: PPO
  • Life Insurance: Alta pays 100% of the premium for life and AD&D, equal to your base compensation
  • 401(k): Alta provides a match up to 3%
  • PTO: 21 days accrued annually to start
  • Holidays: 11 total company paid holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave/Short-Term Disability
  • Additional Benefits: Wellness reimbursement up to $800 annually, Alta Gets Around benefit of up to $900 annually, 5-year travel award, and professional development opportunities

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