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Transport Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Transport Engineering, or a related field. * Strong understanding of railway systems and operations: locomotives, EMUs, DMUs, high-speed and freight ...

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Transport Engineering information

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

To thrive as a Transport Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in mathematics and physics, and typically a degree in civil or transport engineering. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, traffic simulation tools, and knowledge of relevant standards or certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and address complex infrastructure challenges. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation systems that meet community needs.

Is being a transport engineer worth it?

Transport engineering is a specialized field involving the design, planning, and management of transportation systems. It offers opportunities in infrastructure development, urban planning, and environmental impact assessment, often requiring a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant certifications. The profession can be rewarding with steady demand, but job satisfaction depends on individual interests and career goals.

What does a transport engineering do?

A transport engineer designs, plans, and manages transportation systems such as roads, bridges, railways, and airports to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability. They analyze traffic patterns, use modeling tools, and often require knowledge of civil engineering principles and relevant regulations. Their work involves project management, technical analysis, and collaboration with government agencies and construction teams.

What are some common challenges faced by transport engineers when working on urban infrastructure projects?

Transport engineers working on urban infrastructure projects often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders, navigating strict regulatory requirements, and managing limited space for new developments. Coordinating with city planners, local governments, and utility companies is crucial, as is addressing concerns related to traffic congestion, pedestrian safety, and environmental impact. Effective communication, adaptability, and a collaborative approach are essential skills for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring successful project delivery.

What is transport engineering?

Transport engineering is a branch of civil engineering focused on the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of safe and efficient transportation systems. This includes roads, highways, railways, airports, and public transit networks. Transport engineers analyze traffic patterns, develop transportation models, and implement solutions to improve mobility and reduce congestion. Their work ensures that people and goods can move smoothly and safely within urban and rural environments.

What is the difference between Transport Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectTransport EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Transport Engineering or Civil Engineering, often with specializationBachelor's in Civil Engineering, often with various specializations
Work EnvironmentTransportation agencies, urban planning firms, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, urban development
Employer & Industry UsageTransport departments, consulting firms, government agenciesConstruction companies, government agencies, private firms

Transport Engineering focuses specifically on the planning, design, and operation of transportation systems, while Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, but Transport Engineering specializes in transportation-related projects.

What cities in California are hiring for Transport Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Transport Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Transport Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Department of Transportation

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$4.6K - $7.0K/mo

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

543rd of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Under the direction of a Senior Transportation Engineer, the Transportation Engineering Technician performs geotechnical field work such as assisting in drilling request preparation, logging bore holes, assisting geologists with field mapping, and assisting in the installation and monitoring of geotechnical instrumentation. In this capacity the Transportation Engineering Technician may also assist in rock climbing and scaling operations, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) mapping and other geotechnical field work data gathering. Works either as part of a team or independently as necessary to conduct various field work.
PARF 59-27-0006/ JC-527860
Eligibility for hire may be determined by your score on the Transportation Engineering Technician exam. For those who do not have current eligibility (e.g., transfer, permissive reinstatement, or voluntary demotions) and/or who will be new to state civil services employment, you must be on the state examination list to be eligible for these positions. To apply for the exam, please click here and search by typing in the classification title.
This position may be eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on Caltrans's evolving telework policy. Caltrans supports telework, recognizing that in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to their worksites with minimum notification if an urgent need arises. The selected candidate will be required to commute to the headquartered location as needed to meet operational needs. Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee's designated headquartered location, primary residence, and may be subject to CalHR regulations or applicable bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the headquartered location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Please take this 1-minute Caltrans Recruitment survey to tell us how you found out about this job.
https://forms.office.com/g/RyK102ty4G
https://youtu.be/oC9wIp8QalI
Apply today to join our team! We especially encourage applicants to check out our Caltrans Career Compass tool! The Caltrans Career Compass is a tool to assist and help candidates understand and succeed in applying to Caltrans positions.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-527860
Position #(s):
559-315-3175-XXX
Working Title:
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN
Classification:
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN $4,695.00 - $5,876.00 B
$5,644.00 - $7,063.00 C
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
San Luis Obispo County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
California Department of Transportation
Department Information
Caltrans Mission: Improving lives and communities through transportation.
Caltrans Vision: A thriving and connected California.
The Caltrans workforce is made up of diverse and unique individuals who contribute to our organizational success.
Department Website: www.dot.ca.gov
Director's EEO Policy : https://dot.ca.gov/programs/equal-employment-opportunity
Director's EEO Policy Statement: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/equal-employment-opportunity
Special Requirements
  • Possession of a valid driver's license is required when operating a State owned or leased vehicle.
This position is subject to the Post & Bid process. Applications from a certification list, transfer, change-in-class, reinstatement, re-employment, and/or training and development assignment will be accepted for this position but may not be considered unless the Post & Bid process does not result in a hire.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are basing your eligibility on education, you must include your unofficial transcript(s)/diploma for verification. Unofficial, original, or official sealed transcripts will be accepted and may be required upon appointment. Applicants with foreign transcripts/degrees must provide a transcript/degree U.S. equivalency report evaluation that indicates the number of units and degree to which the foreign coursework is equivalent. Please visit either of the following two websites for a list of evaluation agencies: https://www.naces.org/members or https://aice-eval.org . Please redact birthdates and social security numbers
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/22/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Transportation
N/A
Attn: Caltrans DHR Contact
Certification Services MS-90
P O Box 168036
Sacramento , CA 95816-8036
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Transportation
Drop-Off Address
Caltrans DHR Contact
Classification and Hiring Unit - ECOS
1727 30th Street, MS 90
Sacramento , CA 95816
Closed on weekends and State holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits
Click HERE to view the Benefits Summary for Civil Service Employees in the State of California.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Human Resources Contact:
Shirley Panugaling
(279) 599-8482
shirley.panugaling@dot.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Kanchan Shahi
(916) 825-4251
kanchan.shahi@dot.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Caltrans EEO Office
(844) 368-3367
Ask.eeo@dot.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Important Application Instructions:
The State application (STD. 678) is required, and each section must be filled out completely and thoroughly. For mailed or hand delivered applications to be considered for this position, the Job Control number (JC-527860), PARF# 59-27-0006 and title of the position (Transportation Engineering Technician) must be included on the STD. 678 form.
Electronic applications through your CalCareers account are highly recommended and encouraged.
Candidates that meet the minimum qualifications based on possession of EDUCATION, LICENSE, OR CERTIFICATE must include a copy of your DEGREE/TRANSCRIPTS, LICENSE, or CERTIFICATE, along with your State application (STD. 678), to be considered for this position.
NOTE: Do not submit the "Equal Employment Opportunity" questionnaire (page 5) with your completed State application (STD. 678). This page is for examination use only. Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy, such as your state application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number, birth date, driver's license number, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. The job application packet checklist is not required to apply for this position. Failure to follow these instructions may result in your application not being considered for this position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

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