Transportation Planners
O*NET 19-3099.01 · SOC 19-3099
Transportation Planner is a risky career choice. Median pay is $101k a year with -0.2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 2,700 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Analyze traffic flow data to identify congestion points in road networks.
- →Develop transportation models to forecast future travel demand.
- →Review proposed development plans for transportation impacts.
- →Coordinate with transit agencies to improve public transportation routes.
- →Write transportation improvement plans for local or regional governments.
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Transportation Planner roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Transportation Planner involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Transportation Planner?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Transportation Planner Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Transportation Planners is projected to decline 0.2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·28% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Transportation Planner make?
The median Transportation Planner earns $101k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Transportation Planner jobs?
Our model puts Transportation Planner at 40 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 28% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Transportation Planner a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 0.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 2,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Transportation Planner?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Transportation Planner roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Transportation Planner?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Transportation Planner career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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