Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Working Life

Traffic engineers aim to maximise road safety, minimise traffic congestion and meet environmental and community demands. They do this by planning and designing roads, junctions, roundabouts, traffic signals, traffic control systems, parking policies, pedestrianisation and public transport schemes. Traffic engineering is a branch of civil engineering.  
 
They may improve a road system because of a high number of accidents in a particular place, because of an increase in traffic, or to improve conditions for cyclists and pedestrians etc. Studies are carried out to find the cause of such problems, which help the traffic engineer to find possible solutions. They look at plans and consider their costs and environmental effects. Traffic engineers may work with the public when considering new road and transport systems. As well as building infrastructure, elements such as sensors to measure traffic flow and guidance systems are being introduced to help traffic flow easier.  
 
Other duties include visiting sites, supervising work, having meetings with clients, writing reports and making calculations.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Study traffic delays by noting times of delays, the numbers of vehicles affected, and vehicle speed through the delay area.
• Interact with the public to answer traffic-related questions, respond to complaints or requests, or discuss traffic control ordinances, plans, policies, or procedures.
• Prepare graphs, charts, diagrams, or other aids to illustrate observations or conclusions.
• Analyse data related to traffic flow, accident rates, or proposed development to determine the most efficient methods to expedite traffic flow.
• Prepare work orders for repair, maintenance, or changes in traffic systems.
• Plan, design, and improve components of traffic control systems to accommodate current or projected traffic and to increase usability and efficiency.
• Compute time settings for traffic signals or speed restrictions, using standard formulas.
• Prepare drawings of proposed signal installations or other control devices, using drafting instruments or computer-automated drafting equipment.
• Study factors affecting traffic conditions, such as lighting or sign and marking visibility, to assess their effectiveness.
• Gather and compile data from hand count sheets, machine count tapes, or radar speed checks and code data for computer input.

Further Information

• Traffic engineer- from: GradIreland

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

The usual way to become a chartered Traffic Engineer is to do a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) honours degree in Civil Engineering Level 8 followed by a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree. These courses are available at most of the Universities and Institutions of Technology throughout the country.  
 
Having qualified as a Civil Engineer you must complete a period of approved training and experience with an employer to become fully qualified.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: engineering, construction technology, civil engineering, transport, distribution, logistics.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: engineering, construction technology, civil engineering, transport, distribution, logistics.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics, Principal Engineering.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: engineering, automotive, transport, road transport technology and management, sustainable transport management, civil engineering, planning and environmental management.

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: engineering, environmental structural, geotechnical, transport, sustainable energy, process energy, research, road and transport engineering.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland 

Engineers Ireland

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €30k - €90k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
Morgan McKInley/ CPL/ Sigmar/ Clark

Last Updated: August, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Civil engineers, Construction project managers and related professionals, Production managers and directors in construction.

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2025).

Employment growth was above average for this occupation although employment levels remained unchanged since 2023.

New employment permits issued were primarily for civil engineers and construction project managers, but also for site and structural engineers.

Difficult-to-fill mentions in both the Recruitment Agency Survey and Skills for Growth data identified a demand for site managers/engineers, project managers, civil/building engineers, with key skills in demand including BIM, design, and sector specific knowledge (e.g. life sciences, renewables, etc).

The number of awards from higher education has increased considerably in recent years (following declines associated with the aftermath of the 2008 recession), and were at their highest levels in a decade by 2023 (the number of level 8 and 9 awards in civil engineering related courses had risen to 322, and structural engineering to 90, up from 260 and 81 in 2019 respectively). These increases may help alleviate some of the issues with sourcing suitably qualified personnel for these roles.

Increasing housing provision, addressing infrastructure (i.e. utilities) capacity issues, and retrofitting activities will increase demand for these roles.

Skills shortage:

Civil engineers & construction project managers

• Engineers Ireland

  • 22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge Dublin 4
  • (01) 665 1300
  • Click Here

• Road Safety Authority (RSA)

  • Moy Business Park, Primrose Hill, Ballina, Co.Mayo
  • (096) 25000 / LoCall 1890 506080
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here