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Transportation Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Transportation Engineer 5-Traffic

Nashville, TN · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Civil, Transportation, or Structural Engineering or related discipline. Professional engineering (PE) license. 7 years of related experience. Domestic and/or ...

Transportation Engineer 5-Traffic

Nashville, TN · Hybrid

$74K - $99K/yr

Intelligent Transportation Systems.Community traffic engineering and safety issues.Peer review of traffic studies conducted by others.Design of traffic signals/signal systems plans, specifications ...

Senior Transportation Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

In the role of Senior Transportation Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Serve in the lead technical role of transportation projects through all phases of development * Perform quality assurance and ...

Senior Transportation Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

In the role of Senior Transportation Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Serve in the lead technical role of transportation projects through all phases of development * Perform quality assurance and ...

Showing results 21-40

Transportation Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$48.6K

$82.7K

$115.3K

How much do transportation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for transportation engineer in Tennessee is $82,681.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a transportation engineer 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 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 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.

How much do transportation engineers make in the US?

Transportation engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $87,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $120,000 depending on experience, location, and level of education. Senior or specialized engineers with professional licensure and advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially in urban areas or with government agencies.

Is being a transportation engineer worth it?

Transportation engineers design and improve transportation systems, often requiring a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and licensure. The profession offers steady employment, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work on infrastructure projects, but it can involve project deadlines and fieldwork. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in urban planning and infrastructure development.

What do you do as a transportation engineer?

A transportation engineer designs, develops, and maintains transportation systems such as roads, bridges, and traffic management solutions. They analyze traffic patterns, ensure safety standards, and use tools like CAD software to plan infrastructure projects, often requiring knowledge of engineering principles and relevant certifications. Their work supports efficient and safe movement of people and goods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Transportation Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Transportation Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Transportation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Transportation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Transportation Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,681 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Principal Transportation Engineer

OHM Advisors

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


OHM Advisors rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Come work for OHM Advisors, the Community Advancement firm. 

With the singular mission of Advancing Communities, our diverse 800+ team of professionals works collaboratively across multiple service areas in multiple states, including architecture, engineering, planning, surveying and construction engineering. 

We are a team of experts with individual specialties working together, driven to make a difference through people-focused problem solving, design, and ideas. In everything we do, we put people first. We create places for communities of people that help solve a problem and drive them forward— advancing the whole community today and well into the future.

What You Will Contribute to OHM Advisors 

As a Principal Transportation Engineer at OHM Advisors, you will lead the growth and direction of our transportation practice in Tennessee. You will manage key projects while developing and strengthening client relationships. This senior leadership role blends technical oversight, team development, and business strategy to deliver transportation solutions that enhance safety, mobility, and long-term community resilience.

Your Responsibilities

Project Leadership:

  • Serve as principal-in-charge on complex transportation projects, including roadway, corridor, and multimodal infrastructure initiatives.
  • Oversee project delivery, ensuring design quality, budget and schedule adherence, and technical excellence.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated solutions that align with client needs and community goals.

Client Engagement & Business Development:

  • Lead client engagement efforts, particularly with TDOT and local municipalities.
  • Identify new opportunities and support pursuit strategies and proposal development.
  • Represent OHM Advisors at industry events and serve as a visible leader in the regional transportation market.

Team Development & Mentorship:

  • Guide and mentor engineering staff, providing oversight, training, and career development support.
  • Support staffing plans and hiring efforts as the Tennessee transportation practice continues to grow.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture that aligns with OHM’s values and mission.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Tennessee or ability to obtain within 6 months.
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience in transportation engineering, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
  • Strong understanding of TDOT standards, funding programs, and project delivery processes.
  • Proven experience managing transportation infrastructure projects and leading multidisciplinary teams.
  • Demonstrated success in client development, relationship management, and regional market growth.
  • Working knowledge in design software such as MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, and other transportation tools.
  • Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.

Benefits

At OHM Advisors, our people are our greatest asset. We're committed to providing a supportive and rewarding workplace that fosters personal and professional growth. That's why we offer a competitive benefits package designed to meet your unique needs.

Benefits:

  • BCBSM Medical, Dental and Vision
  • Company Profit Sharing
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contribution
  • Paid professional association membership
  • Tuition & Certification Expense reimbursement
  • Volunteer Service Leave
  • 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance
  • Short & Long-Term Disability Options

Career Advancement & Enrichment Programs:

  • Voluntary Wellness Program
  • OHM Grad School
  • OHM University

You can read more about each of these programs on our website. 

OHM Advisors is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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