Become a Traffic Engineer

Traffic or transportation engineers focus on the design of roads and highways so that traffic can operate in an efficient and safe manner. You will use the concepts and principles found in civil engineering, one of the oldest areas of engineering, when you learn how to become a traffic engineer.

1. 
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   Become adept at mathematics, which is the foundation of engineering programs.

   • If you are still in high school, explore STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs offered by public, private and technical schools.
2. 
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   Specialize in traffic engineering, which is 1 of 17 engineering specialties and a branch of civil engineering, by attending an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited engineering program in college.

   • More than 200 accredited civil engineering programs can be searched athttp://www.abet.org/.
   • Traffic engineers are also known as transportation engineers and highway engineers.
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   Gain experience in the duties of a highway engineer, which include:

   • Creating plans for new roads based on transportation engineering standards.
   • Analyzing traffic flow problems and the environmental impact of transportation engineering projects.
   • Improving traffic flow by modifying existing roads and facilities.
   • Developing construction specifications and cost estimates for transportation projects.
   • Planning for various transportation systems, including airports and trains.
   • Supervising and inspecting road construction projects to assure compliance with current transportation regulations.
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   Work in the office and in the field.

   • Analyzing traffic situations and supervising construction involves field work.