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Transportation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Transportation Engineer Department: Engineering Employment Type: Full Time Location: Los Angeles, CA Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 / year Description Alta is looking for an Active Transportation ...

Transportation Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$83K - $110K/yr

Alta is looking for an Active Transportation Engineer to join our growing design team in our Los Angeles, California office. This mid-career role is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate ...

Transportation Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$82K - $109K/yr

HDR has an opportunity for a Transportation Engineer to work with a team of professionals in planning, designing, and supporting construction of interstates and highways, urban streets and ...

Transportation Engineer

Sacramento, CA

$82K - $109K/yr

HDR has an opportunity for a Transportation Engineer to work with a team of professionals in planning, designing, and supporting construction of interstates and highways, urban streets and ...

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 planning and design work on the beautiful California Central Coast! We focus on our purpose with integrity ...

transportation engineer I Come join a dynamic and fun-loving team that takes pride in their planning and design work on the beautiful California Central Coast! We focus on our purpose with integrity ...

Transportation Engineer I Location: San Luis Obispo, California Duration: Contract Pay Range: $89K - $102K/yr Job ID: 176904 Job Overview: The Transportation Engineer I will assist the Project ...

We're looking for a Senior Engineer to join our team in Oakland, CA: someone who is excited to lead impactful roadway and active transportation projects that reflect our mission and values. Why You ...

We're looking for a Senior Engineer to join our team in Oakland, CA: someone who is excited to lead impactful roadway and active transportation projects that reflect our mission and values. Why You ...

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Showing results 1-20

Transportation Engineer information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$89.9K

$125.3K

How much do transportation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for transportation engineer in California is $89,904.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior transportation engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or consulting firms. Achieving this level often requires specialized skills, project management expertise, and a strong professional reputation.

What Do Transportation Engineers Do?

Transportation engineers plan, design, and implement transportation systems. Transportation engineers consider traffic, population, and other factors to determine the need for a new form of transportation, such as train lines, buses, subways, or new roads, in a specific area or region. They identify methods for incorporating the new form of transportation to reduce local traffic, meet the needs of the community, and fit into the designated budget. Transportation engineers are vital parts of the team that designs public transportation paths and creates highways, bridges, and other structures that enable transportation. Similar job titles include construction engineer, transportation planner, port engineer, and traffic engineer.

What are some common challenges Transportation Engineers encounter when working on large infrastructure projects?

Transportation Engineers working on large infrastructure projects often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Balancing safety, cost, and environmental impact can also be complex, especially when projects require innovative solutions or community engagement. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as engineers frequently collaborate with urban planners, contractors, and government agencies to deliver successful outcomes.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior transportation engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or with leadership roles. Achieving this salary often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management, and years of industry experience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior transportation engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in traffic modeling or infrastructure planning can reach annual salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-cost regions or consulting roles. Such positions often require a combination of technical expertise, project management, and leadership responsibilities.

What does a Transportation Engineer do?

A Transportation Engineer designs, plans, and manages transportation systems such as roads, bridges, and traffic flow to ensure safety and efficiency. They analyze traffic data, develop infrastructure projects, and often use tools like CAD software, requiring knowledge of engineering principles and relevant regulations.

What is the difference between Transportation Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectTransportation EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering or Transportation Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering; PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning transportation systems, traffic management, roadway planningBroader infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, buildings
Industry UsageFocused on transportation infrastructure and traffic systemsWide range of infrastructure projects including transportation

Transportation Engineers specialize in designing and managing transportation systems, while Civil Engineers have a broader scope covering various infrastructure projects. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in related environments, but Transportation Engineers focus specifically on traffic flow, roadway design, and transit systems.

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

To thrive as a Transportation Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, traffic flow analysis, and transportation planning, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in civil or transportation engineering and an EIT or PE license. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and traffic modeling tools like SYNCHRO or VISSIM is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and deliver successful projects. These abilities are essential to designing safe, efficient transportation systems and ensuring regulatory compliance in infrastructure development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Transportation Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Transportation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Transportation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Transportation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Transportation Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,904 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Transportation Engineer

Department of Transportation

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$6.4K - $12K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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539th of 839 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Under the direction of a Senior Transportation Engineer, the Transportation Engineer performs engineering duties and activities in the Division of Traffic Operations. Based on annual workload, delivery commitments, and seasonal needs, incumbent may be assigned by the Department to a variety of positions in an office or field environment. Possession of a valid certificate of registration as Civil Engineer issued by the California State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers is required for range D.
Parf 04-27-0095 / JC-526587
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.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Position located at 111 Grand Ave, Oakland, Alameda County.
Multiple positions may be filled from this recruitment.
The incumbent may work in a climate-controlled environment, with artificial lighting in an office building, field office, laboratory or trailer, or in the field to perform ramp metering operational analysis, observation, design, inspection, and coordination. Travel to work sites for field work and other travel as required. The incumbent may be exposed to loud noise; dust; chemicals; and extreme weather conditions. Working at night and overtime may be required.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER (CIVIL)
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-526587
Position #(s):
904-351-3135-XXX
Working Title:
Transportation Engineer
Classification:
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER (CIVIL) $6,488.00 - $12,152.00
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:
Alameda County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
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
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: 8/11/2026
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
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 Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
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:
David Maxwell
(279) 234-2433
David.Maxwell@dot.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Mei Cheung
(510) 421-8369
may.cheung@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-526587), PARF# 04-27-0095 and title of the position (TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER, CIVIL) 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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