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Traffic Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Traffic Engineer

Federal Way, WA ยท On-site

$105K - $133K/yr

Reviews traffic engineering and transportation planning studies and develops appropriate mitigating measures to impose as conditions for projects in accordance with City Policies and State ...

Traffic Engineer

Federal Way, WA ยท On-site

$105K - $133K/yr

Reviews traffic engineering and transportation planning studies and develops appropriate mitigating measures to impose as conditions for projects in accordance with City Policies and State ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$117K - $162K/yr

Lead traffic engineering design, corridor traffic analysis, and traffic operations efforts for municipal, transit, and infrastructure projects * Provide technical oversight and direction for traffic ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$117K - $162K/yr

Lead traffic engineering design, corridor traffic analysis, and traffic operations efforts for municipal, transit, and infrastructure projects * Provide technical oversight and direction for traffic ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

Collaborating closely with our traffic engineers, you'll help develop and implement roadway improvements that solve immediate traffic challenges while supporting long-term community goals. If you're ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$104K - $156K/hr

Collaborating closely with our traffic engineers, you'll help develop and implement roadway improvements that solve immediate traffic challenges while supporting long-term community goals. If you're ...

Traffic Design Engineering EIT

Seattle, WA ยท Hybrid

$43.95 - $47.74/hr

Traffic Design Engineering EIT As a Traffic Design Engineering EIT, you will be working with our seasoned team of Engineers and Project Managers to develop plans, specifications, and estimates (PS ...

Traffic Supervising Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$129K - $164K/yr

We are looking for a dynamic individual to join our team as a Traffic Supervising Engineer IV . In this role, you'll lead quality assurance for traffic elements in key capital and countywide projects ...

Traffic Design Engineer Our client is proud to be 100% employee-owned with a commitment to making a meaningful difference in our communities. As part of their team, you will experience a ...

Traffic Design Engineer Our client is proud to be 100% employee-owned with a commitment to making a meaningful difference in our communities. As part of their team, you will experience a ...

The Traffic Engineer will perform timely, accurate analysis, prepare reports, and present your findings to the client. * The Traffic Engineer will also prepare and present demonstrative diagrams and ...

Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist

Seattle, WA ยท On-site +1

$124K - $171K/yr

The Traffic Engineer will perform timely, accurate analysis, prepare reports, and present your findings to the client. * The Traffic Engineer will also prepare and present demonstrative diagrams and ...

ENGINEER 2 - TRAFFIC

Port Orchard, WA ยท On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

For the complete Engineer 2 - Traffic For more information about the department: Department of Community Development OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION Who May Apply: This position is open to the ...

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Traffic Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$51.8K

$117.2K

$160.6K

How much do traffic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic engineer in Seattle, WA is $117,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,100.00 and $134,900.00 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Traffic Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Traffic Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Traffic Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Traffic Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Traffic Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Traffic Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Traffic Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Traffic Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Internship, 50% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $117,223 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Traffic Engineer

City of Federal Way

Federal Way, WA โ€ข On-site

$105K - $133K/yr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Basic Function The first review of applications will be on July 16th Under the direction of the Principal Transportation Engineer, the Traffic Engineer's responsibilities include performing professional and technical engineering and planning duties in support of the Community Development Transportation Division's review of land use permits and site improvements for private and public development within the City's Right-of-Way and/or private property. Land Use permits and site improvements include but are not limited to reviewing traffic impact analyses, site access, roadway construction including traffic signals and channelization plans, and traffic mitigation, with emphasis on compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Federal Way Revise Code (FWRC), Right-of-Way Design & Construction Standards, Federal Way Comprehensive Plan, and other applicable federal, state, and county design manuals. In addition, the position will have responsibilities in the City's permit review process, plan and land use, transportation concurrency management program, and customer service.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Perform professional and technical engineering and planning duties in support of the transportation division of the Community Development Department. Reviews traffic engineering and transportation planning studies and develops appropriate mitigating measures to impose as conditions for projects in accordance with City Policies and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). Reviews engineering plans for compliance with engineering standards and project requirements.

Interprets, applies, and ensures compliance with codes, standards, specifications, policies, and procedures; ensures compliance with standard engineering principles for review of traffic related transportation infrastructure plans. Where guidelines are not applicable or definitive, base decisions on qualitative and quantitative information. Prepares letters, memos, and reports addressing site design and traffic impact issues; provides recommendations for developer conditions.

Uses the city permit tracking and time-keeping systems to maintain accurate records of current status of projects, billable time spent, and workload. Attends Council meetings and public hearings to present information or recommendations related to development applications. Represents the City in a variety of public forums.

Prepare work orders for consultant development review, signs, pavement markings, and traffic signal related projects; follow up and oversee status of work orders to ensure timely and proper implementation. Assist in the development of transportation-related development ordinances, standards, codes, and regulations. Prepare responses to inquiries from community members.

Provide excellent service to internal and external customers. Work with diverse groups to arrive at agreements on transportation engineering issues. Use the travel demand model to identify future roadway and traffic system deficiencies (with respect to signal operation, vehicular level of service, and overall traffic operations).

Develop and evaluate alternatives to include street improvements, signalization projects, road connections, and transportation management programs. Analyze and evaluate long-term traffic impacts of land use alternatives. Support Public Works and other City Departments in the preparation/revision of the Comprehensive Plan, Sub-Area Plans, and other transportation documents.

Assist Planning and Building in maintaining an accurate land use inventory on an annual basis. Perform transportation concurrency analysis for development permit applications including city-wide annual evaluation of transportation concurrency program, operate and maintain transportation concurrency database and propose appropriate improvements. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience equivalent to Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited college or university and a minimum of three years increasingly responsible traffic engineering and/or transportation planning experience. Or: In place of the above requirements, the incumbent may possess any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the individual's knowledge, skill, and ability to proficiently perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Licenses: Engineer-in-Training (EIT) strongly preferred.

Professional Engineer (PE) and/or Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) preferred. Master of Science in Civil Engineering with Transportation or Traffic Engineering focus preferred. Must have a valid Washington State Driver's license (or the ability to obtain within six months) and ability to remain insurable under the City's insurance to operate motor vehicles.

Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of: Organization, operation, policies and objectives of City Government. Principles, theory and practices of modern civil and traffic engineering design and standards as applied to various traffic design functions, particularly traffic signals, signing, striping, and illumination. Pertinent federal, state and local laws and industry standards such as Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), AASHTO, and Highway Capacity Manual.

Traffic engineering software such as Synchro, Passer, HCS, and SIDRA. Transportation related aspects of the Growth Management Act and State Environmental Policy Act and associated case law. Travel demand modeling, preferably with EMME.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent problem-solving skills, including the ability synthesize complex tasks into manageable procedures. Knowledge of highway safety management principles and practices, such as the FHWA's Safe System Approach.

Knowledge of Four-Step Travel Forecasting Process. Knowledge of traffic signal optimization and simulation software. Knowledge of zoning and development regulations.

Familiar with transit, non-motorized, and demand management and their relationship to a complete transportation system. Ability to: Perform highly technical and professional traffic engineering and transportation planning duties in support of the transportation division. Read, interpret and apply a variety of written regulations and instructions.

Plan and organize work. Establish and maintain effective working relationship with other employees, city officials, other governmental agencies, and community groups. Review traffic impact analysis.

Observe traffic safety laws and regulations. Meet schedule and deadlines. Work independently with minimum supervision.

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Plan, organize, coordinate, assign and evaluate the work of technical and administrative staff and consultants. Analyze traffic problems accurately and adopt an effective course of action.

Physical ability to perform the essential job functions. Demonstrate the ability to positively and effectively interact with diverse individuals to accomplish a common goal. Ability to analyze and interpret data and come up with a recommendation or conclusion.

Represent City interests in regional forums consisting of technical staff and elected officials. Environmental Conditions/Physical Effort: Work is performed primarily in an office environment and may require travel to a variety of locations to perform site visit work or to attend meetings. Employee may be exposed to noise from basic office equipment operation, and to weather conditions and traffic hazards.