Location: Elgin, IL or Crystal Lake, IL

Type: Full-Time, Salary

Reports to: Design or Traffic Engineering Manager

 

 

Our client is seeking a Traffic Engineer to join their growing team. This role combines technicalexpertise, analytical thinking, and project management in support of traffic studies, modeling, and design for a range of public-sector clients—including the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA), and local municipalities. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who thrives on problem-solving, collaboration, and delivering quality results on time and within budget.

 

What You’ll Do

• Conduct traffic impact, safety, and intersection design studies using HCS, Synchro, and other analytical tools.
• Develop traffic simulations and signal coordination/timing plans.
• Design traffic signals, interconnect systems, pavement markings, and signage in compliance with IDOT, ISTHA, and MUTCD standards.
• Prepare and manage Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) and traffic control plans for construction projects.
• Perform fieldwork including signal programming, troubleshooting, and coordination with contractors and local agencies.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation supporting studies and recommendations.
• Lead or manage the traffic engineering components of larger multidisciplinary projects, maintaining budget, schedule, and technical quality.
• Serve as a technical liaison with clients, subconsultants, and agencies.
• Collaborate closely with other employer teams (Design, Municipal, Construction) to ensure seamless integration of traffic engineering components.

What You Bring

 

Education & Licensure

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (ABET-accredited).
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Illinois or ability to obtain within 6 months if licensed in another state.

Experience

• 5–10 years of progressive experience in traffic engineering and transportation design.
• Proven record working with IDOT, ISTHA, or other Illinois public agencies.

Technical Skills

• Expertise in Synchro, SimTraffic, and HCS; experience with VISSIM or Vistro a plus.
• Proficiency in MicroStation and OpenRoads Designer (ORD); AutoCAD/GEOPAK experience beneficial.
• Strong understanding of traffic flow, capacity analysis (HCM), and safety analysis (HSM).
• Familiarity with FHWA Safe System Approach and related safety countermeasures.

Certifications (Preferred)

• PTOE certification is highly desired.
• IMSA/IPSI Certified Traffic Signal Technician I (or ability to obtain within 6 months).

Soft Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Analytical mindset and high attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

Why work for our client?

 

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary and annual performance bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health coverage (PPO and HSA-PPO), vision, dental, and life insurance.
• Employer HSA contribution and supplemental coverage up to $2,500.
• Short-term/long-term disability, FSAs, and wellness programs.
• 401(k) Profit-Sharing Plan with dollar-for-dollar match up to 6% and immediate vesting.
• Student loan assistance.
• Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA)

Work/Life & Culture

• Paid holidays and generous PTO.
• Flexible hours and hybrid work options.
• Family-like, collaborative environment with a casual dress code.
• Frequent social events and community involvement.
• Employee recognition, referral bonuses, and corporate perks.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and gym membership reimbursement.

Career Development

• Client-led seminars and Lunch ‘n’ Learns.
• Structured mentoring and performance development programs.
• Continuing education support and reimbursement for licenses, memberships, and professional development.