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Traffic Signal Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Experienced Professional, Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$73K - $125K/yr

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 ...

VHB

Traffic Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$100K - $140K/yr

Prepare traffic signal design plans for VDOT and local agency transportation projects * Support ... Develop traffic engineering design packages including signing, pavement markings, and pedestrian ...

New

VHB

Senior Signal Engineer/Designer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION Senior Signal Engineer/Designer - Transit & Rail - Hybrid - Multiple ... and traffic preemption functions. * Develops and modifies electrical circuits. * Performs ...

Alpha Corporation

Traffic Engineer

Halethorpe, MD · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Typical projects will vary but may include ITS planning, traffic planning and analysis, signal ... Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering or related field and minimum of 5-8 years of related ...

Jobtailor

Traffic Engineering Group Lead

Washington, DC · On-site

$110 - $165/hr

... traffic signal design, lighting, signing and pavement markings, and MOT/TTC design packages ... Manage design production efforts, delegate work effectively, and mentor junior engineers to support ...

Prime AE Group Inc

Traffic Engineer

Halethorpe, MD · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Conduct traffic engineering analyses including signal warrant studies, traffic impact studies, operational analyses, and corridor safety assessments. * Perform capacity and level-of-service ...

Prime AE Group Inc

Traffic Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Conduct traffic engineering analyses including signal warrant studies, traffic impact studies, operational analyses, and corridor safety assessments. * Perform capacity and level-of-service ...

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All JobsTraffic Signal Engineer JobsTraffic Signal Engineer Jobs in Washington

Traffic Signal Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$31.1K

$68.5K

$112.7K

How much do traffic signal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic signal engineer in Washington is $68,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a traffic signal engineer do?

A Traffic Signal Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining traffic signal systems to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vehicles and pedestrians. They analyze traffic patterns, develop signal timing plans, and use specialized software to optimize traffic flow. These engineers also coordinate with local governments and agencies on road improvement projects and troubleshoot technical issues related to traffic signals.

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

To thrive as a Traffic Signal Engineer, you need a solid background in traffic engineering, understanding of signal timing, and a degree in civil or electrical engineering, often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with tools such as Synchro, VISSIM, and MUTCD standards, as well as experience with traffic management systems, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, efficient traffic systems and ensuring seamless operation within evolving urban environments.

What are some common challenges faced by traffic signal engineers when coordinating with municipal agencies and contractors?

Traffic Signal Engineers often encounter challenges in aligning project timelines and specifications with the requirements of various municipal agencies and contractors. Differences in priorities, communication gaps, and unexpected site conditions can complicate coordination efforts. To address these challenges, engineers must be adept at project management, possess strong interpersonal skills, and stay up-to-date with local regulations. Proactive communication and frequent status updates help ensure all stakeholders remain informed and projects move forward smoothly.

What is the difference between Traffic Signal Engineer vs Traffic Engineer?

AspectTraffic Signal EngineerTraffic Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Traffic Engineering, possibly PE licenseBachelor's in Civil or Traffic Engineering, often PE license
Work EnvironmentDesigning, installing, and maintaining traffic signal systemsPlanning, analyzing traffic flow, and overall transportation systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, transportation agencies, consulting firmsTransportation departments, urban planning firms, government agencies

Traffic Signal Engineers focus specifically on designing and maintaining traffic signal systems, while Traffic Engineers have a broader role in traffic flow analysis and transportation planning. Both roles often require similar credentials and work within transportation agencies, but their daily tasks differ in scope and specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Traffic Signal Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Traffic Signal Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Traffic Signal Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Signal Engineer jobs in Washington are:

Traffic Signal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traffic Signal Engineer 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 $68,476 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

19286 - Eng Signals

Virginia Department of Transportation

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$88K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 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

596th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Operate and manage district traffic signals using traffic management system, applications and traffic engineering software. Analyze traffic patterns and adjust traffic signal timings to mitigate traffic congestion and address changing traffic patterns, special events, construction and maintenance, and emergency operations. Provide technical advice, guidance and training regarding assigned engineering program areas. Prepare analyses, reports, and recommendations based on engineering determinations. Provide engineering support and consultation related to engineering program area. Effectively manage assigned projects to ensure timely and accurate completion. Communicate with internal VDOT staff, local government staff, consultants, citizens and FHWA regarding transportation projects and programs.
How you will contribute:
  • Analysis and Technical Reporting: Analyze and interpret engineering data and information. Prepare complete, clear and concise reports and recommendations.
  • Communication: Establish an effective line of communication between VDOT, contractors, government agencies and the public. Investigate issues and resolve complaints.
  • Engineering Process Management: Use established VDOT policies and procedures in the development and delivery of engineering projects. Engineering projects are completed in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Financial, Procurement, and Contract Management: Oversee system support contract pertaining to signal operations. Develop and manage tasks. Evaluate quality of deliverables. Approve invoices and ensure expenditures are within allocations. Identify user needs for system software and hardware. Procure software, hardware, equipment in compliance with procurement policies.
  • Incident and Emergency Response: Provide network and system operational support to staff during incidents, weather events and other emergency operations. Monitor signal operation status during emergency situations. Respond to complaints and malfunctions of system software database, hardware, network, telecommunication, and other components.
  • Manage Assigned Activities: Plan, schedule and coordinate engineering program activities such that deliverables are met within the established scope and timeline.
  • Operations Engineering and Decision Support: Support the development of policies and procedures that demonstrate proactive management of the arterial transportation network. Assist in the performance of in-house assessments and the development of alternatives for managing and coordinating traffic signal system operations, non-routine lane closures, special events and emergency evacuation strategies.
  • Project Engineering: Assist in the management of projects and tasks including development of and managing the scope, schedule, budget, deliverables, change management, quality, and status reports. Complete multiple concurrent tasks and assignments, and report updates on their status.
  • Special Assignments: Manage special program initiatives and projects as assigned. Serve and represent VDOT or assigned program area on various committees and work groups.
  • Teamwork and Customer Service: Demonstrates customer service and work habits that reflect the VDOT Values, and coordinates the flow of information both orally and in writing.
  • Technology Evaluation and Project Review: Support the implementation of new technology for signal system and advanced signal control strategies. Manage and oversee signal related projects and adaptive traffic control systems. Assist with development of signal specifications and reviews for compliance with standards and policies.
  • Traffic Signal Systems: Support and maintain traffic signal system, software applications and IT networks. Administer and maintain the reliability of the central operating system (MIST) for signal timing optimization. Coordinate with system support contractor. Install and configure new hardware and software and develop test plans. Maintain critical system availability and resolve component issues. Maintain inventory of signal system assets. Provide technical support to signal system users. Develop back-up plans for emergency conditions. Troubleshoot and identify solutions for network, operating systems and telecommunication devices.

    • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and practices.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse groups.
  • Ability to draw rational conclusions and develop solutions from analysis; make independent decisions; and manage multiple assignments.
  • Ability to enforce and demonstrate safety behaviors, as well as advocate and practice safety in everyday work activities.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to interpret technical data and prepare and maintain detailed reports.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities with competing deadlines and limited resources.
  • Ability to negotiate outcomes and work with diverse customer groups.
  • Ability to provide detailed reports on review findings.
  • Ability to read and understand highway construction plans.
  • Knowledge engineering specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of VDOT, state, and federal policies and procedures relating to transportation engineering.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles and practices; transportation management related computer programming, microprocessor applicable to signalization.
  • Knowledge of federal and state policies and regulations relative to traffic control devices.
  • Knowledge of project management procedures and principles.
  • Skill in providing and promoting good customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include MS Office, project management and engineering software programs.

    • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical information.
  • Experience applying engineering principles and practices.
  • Experience applying engineering principles and practices; transportation management related computer programming, microprocessor applicable to signalization.
  • Experience applying federal and state policies and regulations relative to traffic control devices.
  • Experience with traffic signal system operations and timing optimization.

    • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Systems Engineering or related field desired.
  • Experience in traffic signal optimization and systems engineering.
  • Knowledge of MIST (signal system) as well as Insync, Next Generations Signal Controllers.

    • 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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