Transportation Planners
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Prepare studies for proposed transportation projects. Gather, compile, and analyze data. Study the use and operation of transportation systems. Develop transportation models or simulations.
Median pay: $101,110/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -1.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 3,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Define regional or local transportation planning problems or priorities.
• Participate in public meetings or hearings to explain planning proposals, to gather feedback from those affected by projects, or to achieve consensus on project designs.
• Prepare reports or recommendations on transportation planning.
• Collaborate with engineers to research, analyze, or resolve complex transportation design issues.
• Recommend transportation system improvements or projects, based on economic, population, land-use, or traffic projections.
• Develop computer models to address transportation planning issues.
• Analyze information related to transportation, such as land use policies, environmental impact of projects, or long-range planning needs.
• Interpret data from traffic modeling software, geographic information systems, or associated databases.
What's the median pay for Transportation Planners?
The median pay for Transportation Planners is $101,110 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Transportation Planners?
Employment for Transportation Planners is projected to change -1.7% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Transportation Planners?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Transportation Planners?
About 3,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.