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Transit Planning Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Short- and long-range transit planning; Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro for data analysis, database maintenance, and data visualization; Strong competence with ...

Short- and long-range transit planning; Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro for data analysis, database maintenance, and data visualization; Strong competence with ...

Traffic Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$79.25/hr

Support transit planning and design activities as needed. Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (BSCE) or related engineering discipline. * California registration as a ...

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Transit Planning information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$52.4K

$77.5K

How much do transit planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for transit planning in California is $52,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $60,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is transit planning?

Transit planning involves designing and organizing public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, and subways, to efficiently move people within urban and regional areas. Transit planners analyze travel patterns, population growth, and community needs to develop routes, schedules, and services that improve accessibility and reduce traffic congestion. Their work ensures that public transportation is safe, reliable, and meets the needs of the community while considering environmental and economic factors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transit planner?

To thrive as a Transit Planner, you need expertise in urban planning, data analysis, and transportation systems, often supported by a degree in urban planning, civil engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, transit modeling tools, and regulatory standards is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills help you collaborate effectively and advocate for community needs. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient, equitable transit solutions that improve mobility and serve public interests.

What are some common challenges faced by transit planners, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Transit planners often encounter challenges such as balancing limited budgets with the need to improve service coverage, managing stakeholder expectations, and adapting to changing ridership patterns. Addressing these issues typically involves effective data analysis, ongoing community engagement, and close collaboration with local governments and transit agencies. By staying flexible and open to innovative solutions, transit planners can develop effective strategies that meet both operational goals and community needs.

What is the difference between Transit Planning vs Transit Operations?

AspectTransit PlanningTransit Operations
CredentialsDegree in urban planning, transportation, or related field; certifications like AICPExperience in transit systems; certifications in transit management or safety
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, analytical, planning meetingsFieldwork, dispatch centers, transit vehicles
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, urban planning firmsTransit agencies, transportation companies

Transit Planning focuses on designing and developing transit systems, routes, and schedules, while Transit Operations manages the day-to-day running of transit services. Both roles are essential but differ in scope: planning is strategic and design-oriented, whereas operations are execution-focused.

How to get into transit planning?

To pursue a career in transit planning, a bachelor's degree in urban planning, civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related field is typically required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in transportation modeling and GIS software, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this field.

What does a transit planning do?

A transit planner develops and analyzes transportation systems to improve public transit efficiency, coverage, and safety. They use data analysis, mapping tools, and planning principles to design routes, schedules, and infrastructure projects that meet community needs.

What are popular job titles related to Transit Planning jobs in California?

For Transit Planning jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Transit Planning jobs?

Cities in California with the most Transit Planning job openings:

Infographic showing various Transit Planning job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $52,365 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Practice Builder - Transit Planning

Kimley-Horn

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$145K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Senior Transit Planner to join our team in Los Angeles, California (CA) overseeing various, large transportation and transit infrastructure projects. 

Responsibilities
  • Has a strategic mindset and a passion for leading large transportation/transit planning projects.

  • Leading transportation planning for transit projects including Commuter Rail, Bus Rapid Transit, Light Rail, and Fixed and On Demand services.

  • Collaborating with municipalities, regional entities, transit agencies, and members of the public.

  • Play a role in business development by tracking transportation planning opportunities.

  • Mentor and develop staff, provides leadership in an environment that encourages teamwork, initiative, and growth.
  • Lead project outreach activities including guiding the direction of public engagement, giving presentations, meeting with community members, businesses, and organizations to explain the project scope, impacts, benefits, mitigations, etc.
  • Collaborate with agencies and municipal clients on complex planning and project delivery challenges.
  • Perform project management duties such as managing large tasks and projects, performing research, report writing, leading public involvement meetings and maintaining client relations in support of transportation infrastructure projects.
  • Develop schedules, review invoices, manage progress reports, prepare scopes, and track budgets.
  • Leadership responsibilities include:

    • Lead a team while building and managing relationships with key clients.

    • Operate with integrity and sound business principles.

    • Provide practice vision, business planning and strategy, establishing goals, building and maintaining positive client relationships.

    • Open communication with partners and team, along with growing and directing a Transit Planning practice.

    • Manage projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, help recruit, and be a positive role model.

  • Our system for rewards is designed to recognize staff as they move along a path to success. Bonuses, promotions, path to ownership recognition, and other forms of advancement are performance based, because as a firm we focus on results.
Qualifications
  • 15+ years of years of planning experience, including large capital transit infrastructure projects
  • Bachelors Degree or higher in city or regional planning or related
  • Registered American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Preferred
  • Local and regional experience preferred
  • Provide high quality deliverables with exceptional client service
  • A desire to lead and grow a planning practice
  • Business development and marketing experience including writing proposals, scopes of work, and budgets for projected work.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and effectively communicate at all levels of the organization.

Base Salary Range

  • $145,000 - $250,000
  • Eligible for performance-based bonus compensation
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

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