How much does a Transportation Engineer make?
Transportation Engineers work to design and improve the systems that help people and goods move. They play a key role in ensuring our roads, rails, and public transport are safe and efficient. This important work comes with a rewarding salary. On average, a Transportation Engineer makes about $97,240 per year. This number can vary based on experience, location, and the type of projects they work on.
Here's a closer look at how salaries break down:
- 10% earn less than $43,790
- 25% earn between $43,790 and $55,409
- 50% earn between $55,409 and $90,267
- 75% earn between $90,267 and $136,743
- 90% earn less than $148,362
- 10% earn more than $148,362
These figures show that there are many opportunities for growth. As Transportation Engineers gain more experience and take on more complex projects, they can earn even more. This career offers a good balance between responsibility and compensation, making it an attractive choice for many professionals.
What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Engineer?

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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $144,962
In Birmingham, professionals enhance the city’s roadways and public transit. Opportunities abound with local firms focusing on infrastructure development. Key employers include the city's Department of Transportation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $125,904
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for transportation experts. The city's vast and diverse transit needs create ample opportunities. Major employers include the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, focusing on public transit.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $124,872
San Diego provides a unique setting with its coastal and hilly terrain. Engineers here work on enhancing public transit and road networks. The city's Department of Transportation is a significant employer in this field.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $120,743
In Silicon Valley, transportation engineers collaborate with tech companies to develop innovative transit solutions. The city's rapid growth demands efficient transportation systems. Key players include the city's Department of Public Works.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $120,387
Albuquerque offers a blend of urban and natural landscapes. Engineers focus on improving road networks and public transport. The city's Department of Transportation is a major employer in this sector.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $115,769
San Francisco presents a challenging yet rewarding environment. The city’s hilly terrain requires innovative transportation solutions. Key employers include the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $115,367
Portland emphasizes sustainable transportation. Professionals here work on enhancing public transit and bicycle infrastructure. The TriMet is a significant employer, promoting eco-friendly transit solutions.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $114,723
In the nation's capital, transportation engineers contribute to a complex transit network. The city's diverse population demands efficient public transit. Key employers include the Department of Transportation and the Metro.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $112,181
Sacramento offers a mix of urban and rural transportation challenges. Engineers here focus on road and transit improvements. The city's Department of Public Works is a major employer.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $111,935
Baton Rouge provides a unique setting with its river and bayous. Professionals here work on improving road networks and river crossings. The city's Department of Transportation is a key employer.
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What are the best companies a Transportation Engineer can work for?

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CONSOR Engineers
Average Salary: $191,406
CONSOR Engineers offers exciting opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects in many locations across the country. These projects focus on building and improving roads, bridges, and public transport systems.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $140,727
At Stantec, Transportation Engineers play a key role. They work on projects that improve travel and mobility. The company operates in many regions. They aim to make transportation systems safer and more efficient.
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Fisher Associates
Average Salary: $138,400
Fisher Associates values Transportation Engineers who design and plan transport projects. They operate in multiple locations and focus on creating better transportation networks. The company works on highways, rail, and public transport systems.
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TYlin
Average Salary: $124,008
TYlin provides Transportation Engineers with the chance to work on diverse projects. They focus on creating better road networks and improving public transport. The company operates in various locations and values innovation.
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Olsson
Average Salary: $123,253
Olsson offers many opportunities for Transportation Engineers. They work on projects that improve road safety and efficiency. The company operates in multiple areas and values teamwork.
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Thruway Authority
Average Salary: $118,388
The Thruway Authority employs Transportation Engineers who design and maintain transport systems. They focus on projects that improve travel and safety. The company operates in specific regions and values innovation.
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HDR
Average Salary: $115,774
HDR provides Transportation Engineers with the chance to work on projects that make travel easier. They focus on projects in many areas. The company aims to improve transport systems for better mobility.
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Alta Planning + Design
Average Salary: $115,691
At Alta Planning + Design, Transportation Engineers work on projects that improve transportation networks. They focus on creating better roads and public transport. The company operates in various locations.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $115,003
AECOM offers Transportation Engineers many opportunities. They work on projects to improve mobility and safety. The company operates in different regions and values innovation.
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Houston Engineering, Inc
Average Salary: $113,615
Houston Engineering, Inc. employs Transportation Engineers who design and plan transport projects. They focus on improving roads and public transport. The company operates in specific areas.
How to earn more as a Transportation Engineer?
Transportation Engineers can find several avenues to boost their earnings. Gaining experience and education provides a solid foundation. Pursuing advanced degrees or certifications can lead to higher-paying roles. Specialized knowledge in areas like traffic analysis or public transport systems can also open up more lucrative opportunities.
Networking plays a key role in salary growth. Building relationships with industry professionals can lead to job referrals and insider tips. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can enhance visibility and credibility. Engaging with peers and leaders in the field can create pathways to higher-paying positions.
Seeking out leadership roles is another effective strategy. Taking on management responsibilities can lead to higher salaries. Look for opportunities in project management or team leadership. These roles often come with increased pay and greater job satisfaction.
Consider gaining experience in high-demand areas. Urban planning and sustainable transportation are growing fields. Employers value skills in these areas, often leading to higher pay. Specializing in these niche markets can make a candidate more attractive to potential employers.
Continuous learning and skill development are vital. Staying updated with the latest technologies and practices in the field can lead to better job opportunities. Employers reward employees who stay current with the industry’s advancements.
Look at the following factors to increase earnings:
- Get advanced degrees and certifications.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Take on leadership roles.
- Gain experience in high-demand areas.
- Stay updated with the latest industry practices.



