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Traffic Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Traffic Engineering Group Lead STV's Transportation team is seeking a Traffic Engineering Group Lead for our Fairfax, VA or Washington DC office, with hybrid/flexible work arrangements that support ...

Traffic Engineering Group Lead STV's Transportation team is seeking a Traffic Engineering Group Lead for our Fairfax, VA or Washington DC office, with hybrid/flexible work arrangements that support ...

Showing results 21-40

Traffic Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$47.3K

$107.1K

$146.7K

How much do traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic engineer in Reston, VA is $107,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,500.00 and $123,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Traffic Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Traffic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Traffic Engineer job openings in Reston, VA 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 $107,102 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

$88K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Perform full range of supervisory duties to include counseling, evaluating hiring, and training employees. Effectively manage assigned projects to ensure timely and accurate completion. Review plans prepared by staff and others to ensure correctness. Supervise professional engineering and technical staff in the performance of engineering duties. Communicate with internal VDOT staff, local government staff, consultants, citizens and FHWA regarding transportation projects and programs. Provide leadership and resource coordination of traffic engineering studies and analyses. Oversee and influence the timely application of improved traffic safety and efficiency. Represent the Traffic Engineering Section in public and private interaction with local and elected officials, government agencies, and general public.
How you will contribute:
  • Analysis and Technical Reporting: Analyze and interpret technical engineering information and data. Prepare reports and recommendations related to findings.
  • Communications: Communicate effectively with internal and external customers including VDOT staff, local governments, elected officials, and FHWA. Prepare correspondence, technical documents, reports, presentations, and demonstrations. Respond to requests for information and resources from internal and external customers.
  • Engineering Compliance: Ensure all engineering projects are completed in compliance with VDOT, state and federal policies, procedures, guidelines, laws and regulations.
  • Project Management: Provide direction and coordination for all project activities, integrating team member deliverables and budgets. Establish schedules and budgets so that complex projects utilize VDOT's standards, policies and procedures. Assist in directing daily project activities. Develop, manage and monitor scope, schedule and estimate for assigned projects to deliver projects on time and within budget. Coordinate with other VDOT sections to ensure all segments of the project are kept on schedule.
  • Reports and Documents: Prepare and approve final reports and documents. Utilize transportation engineering and business related software packages. Evaluate issues and apply appropriate countermeasures to solve complex traffic engineering problems. Provide quality control and assessment of traffic engineering studies and analyses. Research new technologies, software and devices. Promote awareness of technology-based solutions to transportation issues.
  • Special Projects: Perform special projects and assignments related to engineering program when assigned.
  • Team Leadership: Supervise a team of engineers and technicians in performing duties and assignments for related program area. Monitor and evaluate work activities and provide guidance and direction. Promote training and professional development opportunities.
  • Traffic Engineering Studies: Serve as Area Manager in charge of traffic engineering studies and analyses. Provide leadership, planning and resource coordination. Direct manpower and establish priorities for programs involving traffic engineering studies and analyses. Manage the preparation and approval of time sensitive correspondence and reports for signature by District Administration. Assist in managing the work unit by guiding others in problem solving.
  • VDOT Representation: Be actively involved in the planning and implementation of traffic engineering initiatives and issues.
  • VDOT Representation: Represent the agency and program area internally, with citizens, elected officials, local governments and the business community. Be actively involved in group assignments for the planning and implementation of initiatives and issues.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to supervise a diversified staff to include performance management and discipline.
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and practices to a variety of complex projects.
  • Ability to apply traffic engineering practices and principles to engineering investigations and evaluations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with internal and external customers.
  • Ability to gather and analyze data and prepare technical reports.
  • Ability to oversee consultants conducting traffic engineering studies to ensure tasks are completed within scope of work and VDOT policies and procedures.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
  • Ability to plan and coordinate staff workload and set priorities.
  • Ability to prepare and deliver presentations and represent VDOT to local elected officials, government agencies, and the general public.
  • Ability to read and comprehend a full set of plans and to draft clear and concise reports.
  • Ability to supervise and train others.
  • Experience analyzing engineering data and determining impacts to site development on transportation networks, as well as measures to maintain the integrity of transportation systems.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles as they relate to transportation engineering.
  • Knowledge of highway construction methods and materials and VDOT specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing traffic engineering .
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing transportation engineering and safety.
  • Knowledge of project management procedures and principles.
  • Knowledge of strategic, operational, and financial management principles, practices and techniques.
  • Skill and ability to positively interact with employees, citizens and government officials.
  • Skill in building networks and relationships with stakeholders internal and external to VDOT.
  • Skill in critical thinking and decision making during emergency and real time sensitive situations.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include engineering software.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse audiences to include preparing and delivering presentations.
  • Ability to oversee the work of consultants to ensure tasks are completed within scope of work, policies and procedures.
  • Ability to prepare and deliver presentations and represent VDOT to local elected officials, government agencies, and the general public.
  • Experience analyzing engineering data and determining impacts to site development on transportation networks, as well as measures to maintain the integrity of transportation systems.
  • Experience applying local, state, and federal rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing traffic engineering and transportation safety.
  • Experience applying transportation and traffic engineering principles and practices.
  • Experience supervising professional and technical staff and managing traffic engineering programs.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include transportation engineering software.

  • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Civil Engineering or related field desired.
  • Experience in highway design, site plan and impact analysis review, and traffic engineering studies.

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    About Us
    VDOT utilizes a market based pay program, which has been approved by DHRM. Therefore, advertised rates of pay may or may not align with the Commonwealth pay bands.
    In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer.
    Please be aware all VDOT positions require pre-employment screenings. These screenings may include the following:
    • Fingerprint based Criminal History Background Check
    • DMV Record Check
    • Work History Verification
    • References
    • Pre-employment physical
    • Drug screen

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