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Transportation Design Engineer Jobs in California

The Transportation Engineer I will assist the Project Manager in the design and development of transportation projects on local roadways and state highways. This role involves preparing design ...

Transportation Engineer I

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$83K - $110K/yr

transportation engineer I Come join a dynamic and fun-loving team that takes pride in their ... This may include the preparation of design concepts and reports through the delivery of plans ...

Design Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

... transportation, and other verticals. We design, engineer, and manufacture products to our customers' specifications. We are a proud Shreveport-based company working to support our employees and our ...

Showing results 21-40

Transportation Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$86.2K

$111.5K

How much do transportation design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for transportation design engineer in California is $86,163.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transportation design engineer?

Transportation Design Engineers are professionals who plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of transportation systems such as roads, highways, railways, airports, and bridges. They use engineering principles and computer-aided design software to create safe, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure. Their responsibilities include conducting traffic studies, preparing design plans, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with architects, government agencies, and construction teams. Transportation Design Engineers play a crucial role in improving mobility and safety for the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transportation design engineer?

To thrive as a Transportation Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, roadway geometry, and transportation planning, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, MicroStation, and traffic analysis tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure the creation of safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation systems that meet regulatory standards and public needs.

How does a transportation design engineer typically collaborate with other professionals during a project?

Transportation Design Engineers regularly work alongside civil engineers, urban planners, surveyors, and environmental specialists throughout the lifecycle of a project. Collaboration often involves coordinating design plans, sharing technical data, and participating in interdisciplinary meetings to ensure all aspects of transportation infrastructure—such as roads, bridges, and transit systems—meet safety, regulatory, and community standards. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as engineers must integrate feedback from stakeholders and adapt designs to address environmental impacts or construction constraints. This collaborative environment not only enhances project outcomes but also provides valuable opportunities for professional growth and learning.

What is the difference between Transportation Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectTransportation Design EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or Transportation Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license typically required
Work EnvironmentDesigning transportation systems, roads, highways, and transit projectsBroader infrastructure projects including buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in transportation agencies, consulting firms, and urban planningConstruction, consulting, government agencies, and infrastructure firms

Transportation Design Engineers focus specifically on designing transportation infrastructure like roads and transit systems, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope including various infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their project focus differs.

What are popular job titles related to Transportation Design Engineer jobs in CA?

For Transportation Design Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Transportation Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,163 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Design Engineer - Civil Transportation

Walnut Creek, CA • On-site

BKF
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform geometric calculations and plotting, including cross-sections, profiles, and alignments for transportation design projects

  • Conduct routine hydraulics calculations to support drainage and utility system design

  • Utilize AutoCAD Civil 3D to develop and refine design documents


Job description

BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you’ll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

We’re hiring a Transportation Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our Bay Area offices. You’ll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team on a wide range of transportation projects, contributing from concept through construction documentation. As part of BKF’s Transportation team, you’ll work alongside of experienced engineers on assignments spanning roadway, highway, and public infrastructure. You’ll apply standard engineering techniques and judgment while gaining hands-on experience and growing in a supportive environment. Proficiency in AutoCAD/Civil 3D and a California E.I.T. certification are strong assets, along with a proactive mindset and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

  • Perform geometric calculations and plotting, including cross-sections, profiles, and alignments for transportation design projects
  • Conduct routine hydraulics calculations to support drainage and utility system design
  • Prepare site grading calculations and generate grading plans using CAD tools
  • Utilize computer and CAD systems, including AutoCAD Civil 3D, to develop and refine design documents
  • Gather and analyze data from public agencies to support project planning, permitting, and design decisions
  • Collaborate with project engineers and managers to ensure design accuracy and alignment with project goals
  • Assist in reviewing plans and calculations for completeness and compliance with applicable standards

Requirements

  • B.S. in Civil Engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited curriculum (or equivalent) required
  • 1-3 years of experience in site development and design of residential and/or commercial subdivisions, utility systems, roadways, and public works projects
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and judgment in support of project design
  • Familiarity with civil engineering design principles and documentation
  • EIT (Engineer-in-Training) or FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) certification preferred
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D for grading, drainage, and utility design preferred

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $75,000.00 - $100,00.00, annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
  • Competitive salaries, end of year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.

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