As of April 01, 2026, the average salary for a Transportation Engineer I in the United States is $68,485 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $33.
However, a Transportation Engineer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Transportation Engineer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Transportation Engineer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation Engineer I | 0-2 years | $68,485 |
| Transportation Engineer II | 2-4 years | $87,239 |
| Transportation Engineer III | 4-7 years | $105,824 |
| Transportation Engineer IV | 7+ years | $123,003 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Transportation Engineer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Planning | 10.1% |
| AutoCAD | 2.35% |
| Sustainability | 1.26% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Agile
|
$80,812 |
18%
|
|
RFI
|
$79,443 |
16%
|
|
Sustainability
|
$79,443 |
16%
|
|
Leadership
|
$73,964 |
8%
|
|
Project Management
|
$73,964 |
8%
|
|
Electrical Engineering
|
$72,594 |
6%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Transportation Engineer Is enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Transportation Engineer I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $60,691 and $63,914).
Transportation Engineer I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 2.0% |
| High School | 2.0% |
| Associates | 0.7% |
| Bachelors | 33.8% |
| Masters | 59.6% |
| Doctorate | 4.0% |
Understanding how a Transportation Engineer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on April 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Transportation Engineer I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineer II | $90,290 | 32% |
| Structural Engineer II | $87,239 | 27% |
| Transportation Engineer II | $87,239 | 27% |
Salaries for a Transportation Engineer I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $74,708 in 2023 to around $73,331 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Transportation Engineer I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $74,708 |
| 2024 | $73,779 |
| 2025 | $73,331 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Transportation Engineer I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Transportation Engineer I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Transportation Engineer I is $86,380.
The highest pay for Transportation Engineer I is $78,547.
The lowest pay for Transportation Engineer I is $59,216.
Responsible for the design and planning of transportation facilities and projects. May propose changes to existing roadways to improve the flow of traffic. Ensures compliance with government standards and regulations. May require a bachelor's degree in area of specialty. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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