How much does a Transportation Engineer make?
Transportation engineers can expect a rewarding career with a competitive salary. On average, they earn about $97,959 per year. This figure represents the median salary, meaning half of transportation engineers earn more, and half earn less. It's a field with room for growth and advancement, often leading to higher earnings over time.
The salary for transportation engineers can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the employer. Junior engineers just starting out might earn around $43,914, while seasoned professionals in top positions can make over $160,000 annually. Many factors influence these numbers, including specific job duties, industry demand, and geographic location. For example, engineers in urban areas or major cities typically see higher salaries due to the cost of living and demand for their skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Engineer?

-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $131,457
In Los Angeles, working as an engineer means handling heavy traffic and vast public transport systems. Companies like AECOM and CH2M seek experts to improve roadways and transit.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $127,220
San Diego offers a mix of urban and coastal transport challenges. Engineers with expertise in public transport thrive here. Firms like Jacobs Engineering Group provide opportunities for meaningful work.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA
-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $124,307
San Jose is a tech hub with a need for modern transport solutions. Engineers here focus on tech-savvy transport systems. Companies such as AECOM and AECOM Taylor provide exciting challenges.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $120,387
Albuquerque offers a growing need for efficient transport solutions. The city's expanding economy means more projects. Engineers can make a real impact here.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Albuquerque, NM
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $117,419
San Francisco's dense population and hilly terrain create unique transport challenges. Engineers here design innovative solutions. Companies like Bechtel Corporation and AECOM offer promising career paths.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $116,296
Portland values eco-friendly transport. Engineers here work on projects that promote sustainability. Firms like HDR, Inc. are looking for skilled professionals.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Portland, OR
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $116,279
In Washington, DC, engineers play a key role in managing the capital's vast network of roads and public transit. Companies such as Parsons Corporation seek experts to improve urban mobility.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC
-
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $112,590
Tampa offers a growing need for transport solutions to handle increasing populations. Engineers here focus on creating efficient transport networks. Firms like WSP USA provide opportunities for growth.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Tampa, FL
-
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $112,504
Oklahoma City has a mix of rural and urban transport needs. Engineers here focus on practical and innovative transport solutions. Companies like AECOM are active in the area.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Oklahoma City, OK
-
Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $111,935
Baton Rouge's unique geography and growing economy create specific transport challenges. Engineers here work on improving road networks and public transport. Firms like GHD are hiring skilled professionals.
Find Transportation Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA
What are the best companies a Transportation Engineer can work for?

-
CONSOR Engineers
Average Salary: $181,979
CONSOR Engineers offers exciting opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects across the country, focusing on improving transportation systems. Locations include major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.
-
BKF Engineers
Average Salary: $167,395
BKF Engineers provides a dynamic environment for Transportation Engineers. They focus on creating sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. The company operates in various states, including California and Texas.
-
Stantec
Average Salary: $146,115
Stantec is a leading firm for Transportation Engineers. They work on infrastructure projects that enhance public transport. Stantec has offices in multiple countries, including the United States and Canada.
-
Fisher Associates
Average Salary: $138,167
Fisher Associates offers diverse opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They focus on innovative projects that improve traffic flow. The company operates mainly in the U.S., with offices in states like Florida and Pennsylvania.
-
TEEMA
Average Salary: $131,167
TEEMA provides a supportive environment for Transportation Engineers. They work on critical transportation infrastructure projects. TEEMA operates primarily in the U.S., with a focus on states like Arizona and New York.
-
TYlin
Average Salary: $125,758
TYlin offers opportunities for Transportation Engineers to work on impactful projects. They focus on sustainable transportation solutions. The company operates in several states, including Colorado and Minnesota.
-
Olsson
Average Salary: $120,935
Olsson provides a challenging environment for Transportation Engineers. They focus on creating efficient transportation systems. Olsson has a presence in states like California and Washington.
-
New York State Thruway Authority
Average Salary: $119,837
The New York State Thruway Authority offers roles for Transportation Engineers. They work on improving highway systems. The company operates in New York State.
-
Thruway Authority
Average Salary: $119,031
Thruway Authority offers opportunities for Transportation Engineers in New York. They focus on enhancing road infrastructure. The company operates throughout New York State.
-
CDM Smith
Average Salary: $116,112
CDM Smith provides opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve public transportation. The company operates in several states, including Illinois and Florida.
How to earn more as a Transportation Engineer?
Transportation engineers can explore various paths to increase their earnings. One key strategy involves gaining additional certifications. These credentials can demonstrate expertise and dedication to the field. For instance, the Professional Engineering (PE) license often commands higher salaries. Similarly, certifications in specialized areas such as traffic management or public transit can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
Gaining experience is another effective way to earn more. Engineers who work on a variety of projects develop a broader skill set. This versatility can lead to more complex and higher-paying assignments. Working on larger, more critical projects often comes with higher compensation. Additionally, engineers with a proven track record in successful projects are likely to receive higher pay. Continuing education and attending industry conferences can also keep skills sharp and knowledge current. This ongoing learning can lead to better opportunities and increased earnings over time.
Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings as a transportation engineer:
- Obtain additional certifications, such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Accumulate experience by working on diverse and challenging projects.
- Seek opportunities in specialized areas like traffic management or public transit.
- Pursue continuing education and attend industry conferences.
- Network with other professionals to learn about higher-paying opportunities.



