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Transportation Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

GRAEF

Transportation Engineer P4

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

This position offers the opportunity to work on the design of a variety of transportation and site engineering projects. Enjoy rewarding project challenges and an opportunity to become an important ...

Stantec

Transportation Engineer - Roadways

Chicago, IL · On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Uses and applies advanced engineering principles and has a working knowledge of advanced technical ... transportation engineer in preparing the conceptual, preliminary and final design and attends ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Transportation Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

This position will be responsible for performing detailed design, analysis, and engineering calculations for a variety of civil/transportation projects. V&K Benefits • Benefits available 30 days ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Transportation Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$91K - $129K/yr

This position will be responsible for performing detailed design, analysis, and engineering calculations for a variety of civil/transportation projects. V&K Benefits • Benefits available 30 days ...

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All JobsTransportation Engineering JobsTransportation Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Transportation Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.2K

$93.9K

$130.9K

How much do transportation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for transportation engineering in Chicago, IL is $93,917.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $105,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in transportation engineering?

To thrive as a Transportation Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering principles, transportation planning, and traffic analysis, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in civil or transportation engineering and relevant licensure (such as a PE license). Familiarity with specialized software like AutoCAD, MicroStation, SYNCHRO, and GIS systems, as well as understanding of transportation design standards, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication and teamwork abilities are essential soft skills for this role. Mastering these skills ensures the engineer can design safe, efficient transportation systems and collaborate seamlessly with stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for transportation engineers?

Transportation Engineers often start as entry-level or junior engineers and can progress to roles such as project manager, senior engineer, or transportation planning specialist as they gain experience and professional licensure. Advancement may also involve specializing in areas like traffic modeling, highway design, or transit systems, or supervising larger teams and multidisciplinary projects. With continued education and proven leadership, some professionals move into executive positions or become consultants within the field. Career growth in transportation engineering is supported by ongoing training, certification, and a track record of successful projects.

What does a transportation engineer do?

A transportation engineer designs, plans, and manages transportation systems such as roads, bridges, and traffic flow to improve 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 transportation engineering?

A Transportation Engineering job focuses on planning, designing, and maintaining transportation systems, including roads, bridges, highways, and public transit. Engineers in this field ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable movement of people and goods. They analyze traffic patterns, improve infrastructure, and implement new technologies. Their work helps reduce congestion, enhance safety, and support economic growth.

What are popular job titles related to Transportation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? For Transportation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Transportation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Transportation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Transportation Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transportation Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,917 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Transportation Design Manager

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$100K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking a Transportation Design Manager to lead and support transportation infrastructure projects throughout the Midwest. This role is ideal for an experienced transportation engineer who is passionate about delivering roadway and highway improvements while mentoring technical staff and collaborating with clients, agencies, and multidisciplinary project teams.
The Transportation Design Manager will be responsible for managing transportation design projects from planning through final design, ensuring quality deliverables, maintaining client relationships, and supporting the continued growth of our transportation practice.
Responsibilities
  • Manage and oversee transportation engineering projects, including roadway, highway, tollway, drainage, and related infrastructure improvements
  • Lead project teams through all phases of design and delivery, from concept development through final plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E)
  • Prepare and review engineering calculations, technical reports, construction plans, and project specifications
  • Coordinate with internal disciplines, including civil, structural, electrical, and environmental teams
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, agencies, and stakeholders throughout project execution
  • Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with applicable standards and regulations
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers while promoting technical excellence and quality control
  • Support proposal development, project pursuits, and business development initiatives
  • Participate in project planning, resource allocation, and workload forecasting
  • Maintain a strong understanding of industry standards, agency requirements, and transportation design best practices
  • Develop and expand client relationships to identify new business opportunities, support proposal and pursuit efforts, and contribute to the continued growth of Valdes' transportation engineering practice

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited university (required)
  • Minimum of 7 years of transportation engineering and design experience
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain PE licensure within one year of hire
  • Experience designing transportation infrastructure projects including roadways, highways, tollways, drainage systems, and grading & site development
  • Proficiency with transportation design software such as MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, Civil 3D, or similar platforms
  • Strong understanding of transportation engineering principles, design standards, and project delivery processes
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience working on projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and/or Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).
  • Previous experience leading project teams and mentoring engineering staff
  • Familiarity with Midwest transportation agency standards, permitting requirements, and funding programs
  • Experience supporting project pursuits, client development, and transportation practice growth

What You'll Bring
  • Strong technical expertise in transportation design and project delivery
  • A collaborative leadership style with the ability to guide and develop team members
  • A commitment to quality, innovation, and client service
  • The ability to build lasting relationships with clients, agency representatives, and project stakeholders

Why Join Valdes?
  • Opportunity to help grow and shape a transportation practice within an established multidisciplinary firm.
  • Exposure to diverse transportation and infrastructure projects.
  • Collaborative culture with opportunities for career advancement and leadership development.
  • Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and flexible work arrangements

Join Valdes Architecture & Engineering and help deliver the transportation infrastructure that keeps communities connected and moving forward.
$100,000 - $175,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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