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Traffic Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Successful candidate will work on VDOT Signal Timing, ITS/Signal Design and Operational Improvements projects, traffic safety, as well as traffic engineering projects for local governments. Candidate ...

Successful candidate will work on VDOT Signal Timing, ITS/Signal Design and Operational Improvements projects, traffic safety, as well as traffic engineering projects for local governments. Candidate ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$111K - $189K/yr

Perform traffic operations/safety/capacity studies Talent is the essence of meeting our client's objectives, goals and challenges. If this sounds like a fit for you, we'd love to have that first ...

Showing results 21-40

Traffic Operations information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$116.6K

$159.7K

How much do traffic operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic operations in Washington is $116,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Traffic Operations, you need a solid understanding of traffic management principles, data analysis, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in transportation, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with traffic control systems, GIS mapping software, and incident management platforms is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and attention to detail help professionals coordinate responses and manage real-time traffic situations efficiently. These skills are essential for ensuring safe, efficient roadway operations and minimizing congestion and incidents.

What is traffic operations?

Traffic operations refer to the management, control, and optimization of the movement of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists on roadways. Professionals in this field work to ensure safe and efficient transportation flow through activities like traffic signal timing, incident management, roadway design, and data analysis. They also coordinate with local agencies and use technologies such as traffic sensors and cameras to monitor and improve traffic conditions. The goal is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance the overall transportation experience for all road users.

What are some typical challenges faced in a traffic operations role and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Traffic Operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, managing real-time incidents, and adapting to rapidly changing traffic conditions. Effective communication and strong analytical skills are essential for quickly assessing situations and implementing solutions to minimize congestion and delays. Utilizing advanced traffic management systems and maintaining close collaboration with local authorities and emergency services can help overcome these challenges and ensure smooth traffic flow.

What is the difference between Traffic Operations vs Traffic Engineering?

AspectTraffic OperationsTraffic Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in transportation, civil engineering, or related field; certifications like AICP are commonSimilar credentials; often requires a professional engineering (PE) license and advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, traffic management centers, urban planning officesDesign offices, planning departments, field surveys
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, transportation agencies, traffic management firmsEngineering consulting firms, government transportation departments

Traffic Operations focuses on managing and optimizing existing traffic flow through signal timing, incident management, and real-time control. Traffic Engineering involves designing and planning infrastructure improvements, traffic signal systems, and roadway layouts. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Traffic Operations is more centered on day-to-day traffic management, whereas Traffic Engineering emphasizes planning and design for future traffic solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Traffic Operations jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Traffic Operations jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Traffic Operations jobs in Washington? For Traffic Operations jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Traffic Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,598 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Project Manager - Traffic Engineering

Kimley-Horn

Reston, VA • On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 443 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Reston, Virginia (VA) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 6+ years of experience to join their Transportation Engineering team! This is not a remote position.

Responsibilities
  • Lead traffic engineering tasks to deliver a wide variety of traffic engineering & safety 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 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 work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors

Base Salary Range:

$115,000.00 - $130,000.00 

Qualifications
  • 6+ years of relevant engineering experience in transportation planning, traffic engineering and design, traffic operations. 
  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) License (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Proficiency in Civil 3D, Microstation, OpenRoads, Synchro, & HCS 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
Why Kimley-Horn?

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.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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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