What they do
Transport engineers are responsible for planning, designing and overseeing the construction and maintenance of civil engineering projects relating to transport networks, such as roads, bridges, mass transit stations, railways, airports and harbours.
The work of transport engineers aims to optimise traffic flow, improve mobility and safety, and minimise harmful emissions in all transport systems, at efficient cost. Transport engineering involves the analysis and evaluation of traffic signals, signs and markings, as well as the conditions of the environment surrounding the infrastructure.
Working conditions
Transport engineers work in offices and are also required to undertake site visits and community consultations. When working on a building site they will also be required to wear appropriate safety equipment.
Transport engineers may also be required to travel interstate or overseas for work. They may need to base themselves in the location of a major engineering site for the duration of their project.
Tools and technologies
Transport engineers use computers and computer-aided design (CAD) to assist in planning and design. They may need to be familiar with traffic and micro-simulation modelling software to predict traffic patterns.
Transport engineers may also design and improve advanced technologies such as variable message signs, develop new traffic control systems, and integrate vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, such as driverless cars, to optimise traffic flow and avoid traffic collisions.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a transport engineer, you usually need to study a degree in engineering, majoring in civil engineering. You may need to complete further postgraduate study to specialise in transportation engineering.
Most universities in Western Australia offer relevant courses. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information.