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Traffic Operations Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Lead Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$111K - $189K/yr

Experience with Advanced Transportation Management Systems (ATMS) and Advanced Traffic Signal Controllers (ATC) including the development of a Concept of Operations * Experience with traffic safety ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$111K - $189K/yr

Experience with Advanced Transportation Management Systems (ATMS) and Advanced Traffic Signal Controllers (ATC) including the development of a Concept of Operations * Experience with traffic safety ...

Showing results 41-60

Traffic Operations Manager information

See Washington salary details

$28.9K

$88.8K

$166.5K

How much do traffic operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic operations manager in Washington is $88,818.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $108,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Traffic Operations Manager vs Traffic Engineer?

AspectTraffic Operations ManagerTraffic Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in transportation, civil engineering, or related field; certifications like PTOE often preferredBachelor's or master's degree in civil engineering or transportation engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees traffic management systems, coordinates with agencies, manages teamsDesigns traffic systems, analyzes traffic data, develops plans for infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, transportation agencies, consulting firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting firms

The Traffic Operations Manager focuses on managing traffic systems and teams, ensuring smooth traffic flow, while the Traffic Engineer designs and analyzes traffic infrastructure. Both roles require related credentials and often work within the same industry, but their core responsibilities differ in management versus technical design.

What does a traffic operations manager do?

A Traffic Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the flow and safety of transportation systems, which can include roadways, highways, and sometimes public transit networks. They manage day-to-day traffic operations, analyze traffic data, coordinate with other agencies, and implement strategies to reduce congestion and improve safety. Their work often involves supervising staff, responding to incidents, and utilizing technology such as traffic signals and control centers to manage traffic movement efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Traffic Operations Manager, you need expertise in traffic engineering, project management, and regulatory compliance, often backed by a degree in civil engineering or transportation planning. Familiarity with traffic management systems, geographic information systems (GIS), and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, efficient traffic flow and for leading teams to implement improvements in urban transportation networks.

Is traffic management a stressful job?

Traffic Operations Managers oversee traffic flow, signal systems, and incident response, which can involve high-pressure situations such as managing accidents or congestion. The role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to handle emergencies, making it potentially stressful, especially during peak hours or system failures.

How does a traffic operations manager typically collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth transportation flow?

A Traffic Operations Manager regularly works with engineering, maintenance, and public safety teams to monitor traffic conditions, implement control measures, and respond to incidents. Collaboration often involves participating in planning meetings, coordinating on infrastructure projects, and sharing real-time data to optimize traffic signals and manage congestion. Effective communication and interdisciplinary teamwork are crucial, as these managers serve as a bridge between technical staff, local authorities, and external stakeholders to maintain safe and efficient transportation networks.

What are popular job titles related to Traffic Operations Manager jobs in Washington?

For Traffic Operations Manager jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Traffic Operations Manager jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Operations Manager jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Traffic Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Traffic Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Traffic Operations Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,818 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Director of Strategic Operations

Federal Aviation Administration

Washington, DC • On-site

$153K - $216K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Federal Aviation Administration rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 292 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Summary
The Air Traffic Organization (ATO) comprises 35,000 controllers, technicians, engineers, and support personnel whose daily efforts ensure that aircraft are safe, separated, and on time. Air Traffic Services provides safe, secure, and efficient management of the National Airspace System and international airspace under U.S. control. We are responsible for more than 5 million square miles of airspace in the U.S. and over 24 million square miles of oceanic airspace.
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Duties
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The Director of Strategic Operations oversees the management of field operations across air traffic facilities throughout the Eastern, Western, and Central Service Areas. The Director ensures alignment between national policy and operational execution within Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic control facilities. The Director oversees current processes, policies, and orders to ensure field understanding and compliance; assesses operational needs and coordinates with other lines of business to develop solutions; ensures the safe and efficient integration of new technologies and procedures; and promotes fiscal accountability for labor resources and financial obligations.
Principal Responsibilities
  • Oversees the implementation and development of national policies and standards of en route and terminal air traffic control operations, including the implementation of new technologies. Acts as the focal point for air traffic services operational needs domestically and internationally.
  • Provides input on National Airspace System (NAS) Architecture for the development of operational concepts.
  • Provides executive leadership, direction, and guidance in preparing and managing the cumulative impact of change from NAS modernization and new entrants and the related effect of these changes on the air traffic operational workforce.
  • Solves complex operational problems and develops new, more efficient air traffic control systems and services. Supports initiatives across the NAS in Terminal, Tower, and En Route operational environments.
  • Provides policy guidance related to new NAS initiatives consistent with established operational goals and objectives.
  • Develops and executes plans to realign and consolidate air traffic control facilities and services.
  • Exercises delegated authority to make commitments on behalf of the Deputy Vice President, Air Traffic Services, and represents the FAA in meetings and forums.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • US Citizenship is required.
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
  • Designated or Random Drug Testing required.
  • Complete a Declaration for Federal Employment to determine your suitability for Federal employment, at the time requested by the agency.
  • You will be required to serve a one-year FAA Executive System (FAAES) probationary period unless you have previously completed a probationary period in either the FAAES or the Senior Executive Service (SES).
  • You may be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.

Qualifications
To meet the minimum qualifications of this position, you must clearly articulate and describe within your two (2) page resume evidence that you possess the Executive Leadership Dimensions (ELDs) and Mandatory Technical Requirements (TRs) related to this position. Your resume should include examples of experience and accomplishments applicable to the qualifications. Applicants who do not possess these criteria are ineligible for further consideration.
Please do not submit separate documents addressing the Technical Requirement (TR) and Executive Leadership Dimensions (ELDs). Only your two (2)-page resume will be accepted and considered.
MANDATORY TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS (TR):
  • TR #1: Demonstrated leadership experience in an air traffic control facility, overseeing the development and implementation of policies, standards, and procedures governing all aspects of air traffic operations.

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP DIMENSIONS (ELDs)
  • ELD 1: Commitment to the Rule of Law and the Principles of the American Founding - This ELD requires a demonstrated knowledge of the American system of government, commitment to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, and commitment to serve the American people.
  • ELD 2: Driving Efficiency -This ELD involves the demonstrated ability to strategically and efficiently manage resources, budget effectively, cut wasteful spending, and pursue efficiency through process and technological upgrades.
  • ELD 3: Merit and Competence - This ELD involves the demonstrated knowledge, ability, and technical competence to effectively and reliably produce work that is of exceptional quality.
  • ELD 4: Leading People - This ELD involves the demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a group toward meeting the organization's vision, mission, and goals, and to drive a high-performance, high-accountability culture. This includes, when necessary, the ability to lead people through change and to hold individuals accountable.
  • ELD 5: Achieving Results - This ELD involves the demonstrated ability to achieve both individual and organizational results, and to align results to stated goals from superiors.

Note: Applicants who are current members of the FAA Executive System (FAAES), Career Senior Executive Service (SES), individuals certified through successful completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP), or those with Career SES reinstatement eligibility are not required to address the Executive Leadership Dimensions (ELDs). Such applicants must provide documentation verifying eligibility for a noncompetitive appointment to the FAAES (e.g., SF-50 or certification from OPM's SES Qualifications Review Board (QRB).
Education
An education requirement has not been established for this occupational series.
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Make sure your resume includes detailed information to support your qualifications and answers to the job questionnaire.
Additional information
Position may be subject to a background investigation.
A one-year probationary period may be required.
Veterans preference does not apply to the FAA Executive System.
The person selected for this position may be required to file a financial disclosure statement within 30 days of entry on duty. FAA policy limits certain outside employment and financial investments in aviation-related companies. www.faa.gov/jobs/workinghere/financial-disclosure-requirements
This position is covered by the Department of Transportation's Drug and Alcohol Testing Program. Any applicant tentatively selected for this position will be subject to pre-employment or pre-appointment drug screening. Persons occupying a "testing designated position (TDP)" will be subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing.
If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so (see https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
PCS entitlements will be paid if the agency requires relocation.
This is not a bargaining unit position.
Links to Important Information: Locality Pay, COLA
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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