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Traffic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Principal Traffic Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$62.50 - $79.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Napa, CA · On-site

$164K - $198K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

CA

$146K - $178K/yr

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

Associate Engineer - Traffic

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$51.02 - $62.01/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Engineers in the Traffic Engineering Division have the opportunity to work on a wide range of transportation projects and operational issues that have a direct and visible impact on the community.

Lead Traffic Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$119K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Our nationwide traffic and transportation engineering team is continually growing, and we are currently seeking an experienced, creative, and detail-oriented Senior Transportation ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$119K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Our nationwide traffic and transportation engineering team is continually growing, and we are currently seeking an experienced, creative, and detail-oriented Senior Transportation ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$119K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Our nationwide traffic and transportation engineering team is continually growing, and we are currently seeking an experienced, creative, and detail-oriented Senior Transportation ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$110K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

Oversee traffic engineering projects from concept through implementation, managing budgets, schedules, and resources. Ensure that project objectives align with overall transportation goals.

SENIOR TRAFFIC ENGINEER

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$60.06 - $81.81/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Current registration as a Civil Engineer or Traffic Engineer in the State of California (proof required) * AND * Five or more years of professional traffic/transportation engineering experience ...

Senior Engineer - Traffic

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$116K - $181K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Perform traffic engineering studies, prepare engineering reports, and develop recommendations to improve traffic operations and safety. * Prepare and review traffic signal, signing, striping ...

Traffic Senior Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

The Traffic Division delivers complete traffic engineering solutions for public infrastructure and private development, including traffic signal design, roadway lighting, intelligent transportation ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

How do I become a traffic engineer?

To become a traffic engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships and obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license are important steps, along with developing skills in traffic analysis, planning, and using tools like traffic simulation software.

How much does a traffic engineer make in Texas?

The average salary for a traffic engineer in Texas is approximately $70,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Traffic engineers often require knowledge of traffic flow analysis, design software, and relevant certifications such as PE licensure.

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 are popular job titles related to Traffic Engineer jobs in California?

For Traffic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles 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 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,599 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Principal Traffic Engineer

RICK

San Diego, CA • On-site

$62.50 - $79.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

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Job description

 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 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, 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.

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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.

Company Description

RICK is an award-winning, multi-disciplinary planning, design, and engineering firm with a 68-year history of enriching communities throughout the western United States. RICK offers a full range of services from initial planning through concept development, final designs and plans, and implementation.