How much does a Transportation Engineer make?
Transportation Engineers play a key role in designing and improving our roads, bridges, and public transit systems. They earn a solid income, with an average yearly salary of $97,589. This profession offers a range of opportunities, from entry-level positions to senior roles. As experience grows, so does the potential for higher earnings.
The salary for Transportation Engineers can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level engineers might start around $46,000 per year. With a few years of experience, salaries can increase to about $79,000. More experienced engineers, often in senior or managerial positions, can earn upwards of $134,000. These figures show a clear path for growth and reward in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Engineer?

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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $127,402
In Birmingham, professionals can find rewarding work with companies like Norfolk Southern Railway. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban projects, allowing for diverse experiences. The warm climate makes commuting pleasant year-round.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $125,667
San Jose is a hub for tech and innovation. Working here means collaborating with companies like Google and Apple. The city's dynamic environment offers many opportunities for growth. The public transport system is well-developed, making it easy to navigate.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $124,364
San Diego offers a great quality of life with its beautiful beaches and mild weather. Companies like Qualcomm and General Atomics are prominent employers. The city's focus on sustainability provides exciting projects for engineers. The public transport is efficient, making daily commutes easy.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $120,983
Sacramento is the state capital and offers a mix of government and private sector projects. Working here means being involved in significant infrastructure projects. The city's central location makes it a key player in regional transportation. The cost of living is relatively low, offering a good balance for professionals.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $116,694
Los Angeles is a major city with diverse opportunities. Companies like Metro and AECOM are leaders in the field. The city's vast area means projects range from urban to suburban settings. The public transport system is extensive, though traffic can be challenging. The vibrant culture makes living here exciting.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $115,220
Miami offers a unique blend of urban and coastal environments. Working here means dealing with both city and beachside projects. Companies like Miami-Dade Transit provide many opportunities. The warm climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive place to live. The public transport is improving, with new projects underway.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $113,315
San Francisco is a tech powerhouse with companies like Uber and Lyft. The city's hilly terrain presents unique challenges and opportunities. The public transport system, including BART and Muni, is well-developed. The cost of living is high, but the job market is robust.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $112,778
Portland is known for its eco-friendliness and vibrant community. Companies like TriMet focus on sustainable transport solutions. The city's bike-friendly infrastructure offers many projects. The mild climate and natural beauty make it a great place to live. Public transport is reliable, with a strong focus on green initiatives.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $111,558
Cincinnati offers a mix of urban and suburban projects. Working here means being part of a community that values innovation. Companies like Kroger and Procter & Gamble provide many opportunities. The cost of living is affordable, making it a good place for professionals to settle. The city's public transport is improving with new projects.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $111,513
Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of government and private sector projects. Working here means being at the heart of national transportation initiatives. Companies like AECOM and WSP Global are prominent employers. The city's public transport system is extensive, though traffic can be a challenge. The cultural and historical attractions make it a fascinating place to live.
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What are the best companies a Transportation Engineer can work for?

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CONSOR Engineers
Average Salary: $196,375
CONSOR Engineers offers exciting Transportation Engineer jobs. They work on projects across the United States. Their projects focus on improving transportation systems. They have offices in many states, including California, Texas, and New York.
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Fisher Associates
Average Salary: $132,778
Fisher Associates provides opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They focus on designing and improving transportation infrastructure. They operate in several states, including Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Their work helps make transportation safer and more efficient.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $131,306
Stantec is a leading company for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve roads, bridges, and public transit. They have offices in many states, including Illinois, Michigan, and Washington. Their work is vital for community development.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $118,509
AECOM offers many Transportation Engineer jobs. They focus on designing and building transportation systems. They work in many states, including Arizona, Colorado, and Virginia. Their projects help make transportation more reliable and sustainable.
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gpac
Average Salary: $117,993
gpac provides opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve transportation infrastructure. They operate in several states, including Georgia, Maryland, and North Carolina. Their work helps make transportation safer and more efficient.
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HDR
Average Salary: $116,954
HDR offers exciting Transportation Engineer jobs. They focus on designing and improving transportation systems. They have offices in many states, including Minnesota, Missouri, and New Jersey. Their work is vital for community development.
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AKS Engineering & Forestry
Average Salary: $115,381
AKS Engineering & Forestry provides opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve roads, bridges, and public transit. They operate in several states, including Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Their work helps make transportation more reliable and sustainable.
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Thruway Authority
Average Salary: $115,045
Thruway Authority offers Transportation Engineer jobs. They focus on designing and building transportation systems. They operate in several states, including New York and Pennsylvania. Their projects help make transportation safer and more efficient.
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Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson
Average Salary: $114,642
Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson provides opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve transportation infrastructure. They have offices in many states, including California, Florida, and Texas. Their work is vital for community development.
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Yu & Associates
Average Salary: $114,357
Yu & Associates offers exciting Transportation Engineer jobs. They focus on designing and improving transportation systems. They operate in several states, including Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. Their work helps make transportation more reliable and sustainable.
How to earn more as a Transportation Engineer?
Transportation Engineers can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license or certifications in traffic management can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Continuing education and staying updated with the latest industry trends also enhance a professional's value.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Engineers with more years in the field and a proven track record of successful projects often command higher salaries. Networking within the industry and building a strong professional reputation can lead to better job offers and promotions. Seeking out leadership roles or project management positions can also increase earning potential. Lastly, relocating to areas with a higher demand for transportation engineers can lead to better-paying opportunities.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Transportation Engineer:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain more years of experience.
- Network within the industry.
- Seek leadership roles.
- Consider relocating to high-demand areas.