How to Be Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 10, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increased prevalence of pedestrian and bicycle traffic has caused cities to hire traffic engineers to ensure safety and efficient flow. Traffic engineers must consider a variety of factors, such as road design, signage, and lighting, to reduce the risk of crashes, injuries, and fatalities. They also work to provide infrastructure that encourages safe walking and biking, such as bike lanes and designated crossings. By creating more accessible and safe routes for pedestrians and cyclists, traffic engineers are helping cities become more sustainable, reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and increase economic development.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to become a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer is to obtain a bachelor's degree in a field related to engineering, such as civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related specialty.
Obtain Professional Certification. Professional certification is important for those who wish to become a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer. Depending on the state or country, there may be different requirements for certification.
Complete an Internship. Many employers prefer candidates with some form of practical experience. Therefore, it is beneficial to complete an internship either with a government agency or private engineering firm while pursuing a degree in engineering.
Obtain a Master's Degree. Some employers may require a master's degree in an engineering-related field, such as civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related specialty.
Gain Work Experience. Work experience can be gained through internships or volunteering. Employers often prefer candidates who have some experience in the field, so gaining experience is important.
Become Licensed. In most states and countries, engineers are required to be licensed in order to practice professionally. Becoming licensed typically involves completing an exam, meeting other requirements such as continuing education credits, and submitting an application to the appropriate agency.
Pursue Continuing Education. Continuing education is important for those who wish to remain current on the latest developments and technology in the field. Additionally, continuing education may be required for licensure maintenance.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineers play an important role in ensuring safe and efficient transportation systems. They create strategies to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists by improving infrastructure and ensuring proper signage and traffic control. Such improvements can include the installation of bike lanes, sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic signals.

they develop strategies for reducing potential conflicts between pedestrians, bicyclists, and motor vehicles by adjusting lane widths, adding pavement markings, or creating separate paths for each type of traffic. By implementing these measures, Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineers help to reduce the risk of collisions, improve access to transportation networks, and promote a healthier lifestyle.

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Job Description

Develop, analyze and evaluate traffic engineering plans for pedestrian and bicycle projects.
Prepare detailed design plans, specifications, cost estimates and construction phases for pedestrian and bicycle projects.
Analyze and review traffic engineering data from a variety of sources to develop safety and operational improvements for pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Develop specifications for traffic control devices, signage, pavement markings and other traffic engineering features to ensure pedestrian and bicycle safety.
Monitor the installation of new and existing pedestrian and bicycle facilities to ensure compliance with traffic engineering standards and guidelines.
Research and analyze emerging technologies related to pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering.
Prepare reports on the results of traffic engineering studies and provide recommendations for improvement.
Monitor and evaluate the performance of existing pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Coordinate with local, state and federal authorities to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Participate in public meetings to discuss pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering projects.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of traffic engineering principles and theories, including analysis and design of bicycle and pedestrian networks.
Knowledge of traffic control devices, including signs, signals and pavement markings.
Knowledge of traffic safety and operations principles relevant to pedestrians and cyclists.
Knowledge of current trends and best practices in the field of pedestrian and bicycle engineering.
Knowledge of bicycle and pedestrian planning practices, including public involvement processes.
Knowledge of local, state and federal laws and regulations related to pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering.
Knowledge of relevant computer programs such as GIS, CAD, traffic modeling, and simulations.
Ability to analyze traffic data and develop solutions for pedestrian and bicycle issues.
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with clients, stakeholders and other professionals.
Ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders to resolve issues related to pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering.
Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks efficiently.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions consistent with established engineering principles, practices and standards.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineering is an important field that requires a specialized set of skills. One of the most important skills for a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer is the ability to analyze roadways from a pedestrian and bicycle perspective. This includes being able to identify and evaluate existing and potential conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles.

they must be able to understand the latest traffic engineering principles and practices to develop effective solutions that balance the needs of all road users. They must also be proficient in using software such as AutoCAD to create designs that are safe and efficient for all roadway users. Finally, they must be able to communicate effectively with all stakeholders, including municipalities, local businesses, and advocacy groups, to ensure that the best solutions are implemented.

All these skills are essential for a successful Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer and all contribute to a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.

Parking and Traffic Control Planner, Traffic Coordinator, and Traffic Controller are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the field of pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering?
What strategies have you implemented to increase the safety, accessibility, and convenience of bicycle and pedestrian routes?
How do you assess the needs of pedestrians and cyclists for a particular area?
How do you go about creating or improving plans for bike and pedestrian infrastructure?
How do you work with local governments and other stakeholders to ensure that bike and pedestrian infrastructure is in compliance with all safety regulations?
What methods do you use to measure and track the effectiveness of pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering projects?
How have you incorporated new technologies into your pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering designs?
How do you help create awareness of pedestrian and bicycle safety initiatives among the public?
What challenges have you encountered when it comes to pedestrian and bicycle traffic engineering projects?
What techniques do you use to evaluate the impact of traffic engineering plans on the environment?

Common Tools in Industry

Traffic Analysis Software. This software provides analysis tools to help traffic engineers understand and evaluate current traffic patterns. Example: Synchro Traffic.
Bicycle Network Design Software. This software is used to design bicycle networks and systems, including bike lanes, multi-use trails, and bike paths. Example: BikeRouteDesigner.
Computer Aided Design Software. This software is used to design a variety of transportation projects, including pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Example: AutoCAD.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This software is used to analyze, visualize, and manage geographic data. Example: ArcGIS.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Counting Equipment. This equipment is used to collect data on the number of pedestrians and cyclists in a given area. Example: Portable Bicycle and Pedestrian Counting System.

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
Safe Routes to School National Partnership
Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP)
National Center for Bicycling and Walking (NCBW)
National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO)
International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)
League of American Bicyclists

We also have Highway Traffic Signal System Designer, Traffic Technician, and Airport Traffic Controller jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Bicycle Infrastructure Structures and pathways designed to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of bicycles in an urban environment.
Bicycle Network A series of interconnected bicycle routes designed to provide the most direct and convenient passage for cyclists.
Non-Motorized Transportation Refers to any form of transportation that does not use motorized vehicles, such as bicycles, pedestrians, skateboards, and other human-powered modes.
Traffic Calming Any measure or combination of measures that are used to slow vehicular traffic on streets in order to increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Bicycle Safety Strategies, techniques, and resources to reduce the likelihood of bicycle accidents or injuries.
Complete Streets A street design approach that takes into account all users of the street, including pedestrians, cyclists, public transit riders, and motorists.
Traffic Signals Devices used to control the flow of traffic on the roads by giving directions to drivers at intersections.
Road Design The planning, engineering, and construction of roads and highways to safely accommodate all users.
Roadway Design The process of designing a roadway to meet the needs of all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and public transit riders.
Bicycle Planning The process of developing strategies and policies to improve bicycle access and safety in a given area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer?

A Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer is a professional who specializes in the design and implementation of pedestrian and bicycle transportation systems.

What skills are needed to be a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer?

To be successful in this field, one must possess strong analytical skills, excellent problem-solving abilities, a knowledge of engineering principles, and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.

What types of projects do Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineers work on?

Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineers typically work on projects such as creating safe paths for pedestrians and cyclists, designing bike lanes and trails, developing traffic signals and signs, and creating pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.

What kind of education is required to be a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer?

Most Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineers hold a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. Additionally, some jobs may require a Masters Degree in Transportation Planning or another related field.

What is the average salary for a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer?

The average salary for a Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Engineer is around $75,000-$95,000 per year.

Web Resources

Bicycles and Pedestrians | Center for Transportation Studies www.cts.umn.edu
Traffic Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety | Division of University Safety universitysafety.uconn.edu
Pedestrian & Bicycling Safety Resource Center techtransfer.ce.ufl.edu