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Traffic Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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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 Jul 3, 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced degrees, or earning bonuses and stock options.

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 engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Senior-level traffic engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in transportation planning or infrastructure management can reach annual salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-cost regions or consulting roles. Such positions often involve leadership responsibilities, complex project management, and strategic planning, sometimes supplemented by bonuses or profit-sharing arrangements.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior traffic engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in transportation planning and traffic management can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with managerial responsibilities. Achieving this salary often requires a combination of advanced education, professional licensure, and leadership roles within transportation or civil engineering firms.

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 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 cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Traffic Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Traffic Engineer job openings:
Project Manager - Transportation/Traffic

Project Manager - Transportation/Traffic

Kimley-Horn

Reston, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 357 rated engineering


Job description

Kimley-Horn's Reston, Virginia (VA) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 10+ years of experience to join their Transportation Planning and Traffic team! This is not a remote position.


  • Perform traffic engineering and project management tasks to deliver a wide variety of transportation planning, transit, traffic engineering, safety, and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) projects for many, diverse clients
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit, creating a vision for growth in their personal practice while contributing to the growth of our well-established transportation engineering practice
  • Manage their projects profitably, engage in hands-on practice and delivery of projects, transition work to qualified staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • Contribute significantly to marketing and business development efforts and have the autonomy to pursue their own passions, leads, and clients
  • This is an exciting opportunity to work with a team of engineers and designers on a variety of projects
  • You will flourish on both building meaningful internal and external professional relationships
  • You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors

  • 10+ years of relevant engineering experience in transportation planning, traffic engineering and design, traffic operations, and/or ITS planning and design 
  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) License 
  • Proficiency in Synchro, HCS, and/or Vissim software applications desired
  • Ability to work in a team environment, balance priorities among multiple projects, and effectively communicate and collaborate at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff, and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Ability to provide high-quality deliverables with exceptional client service
  • Business development and marketing experience including writing proposals, developing scopes of work, and assembling budgets for projected work

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it— that’s why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn’s placement on the Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work” list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967