Careers Profiles

Transport Planner

Transport planning is about putting together plans, policies and projects to improve transport systems. These are needed at a local, regional and national level.

Transport planners look at examples of best practice and develop schemes to fit into the future shape of towns and cities. In recent years there has been a growing emphasis on walking, cycling and public transport.

Transport planners may be involved in overseeing the design of new or improved transport schemes such as road improvements, pedestrian routes, or cycle paths.

They prepare transport plans for local authorities, design congestion charging and parking schemes, and assess the impact of traffic from new developments.

Transport planners may also need to study road accident figures and develop schemes to reduce accidents, or help schools or businesses develop travel plans.

Their work often involves negotiating with different organisations including local authorities, resident groups, councillors, and developers. Sometimes they will be called on as expert witnesses at planning appeals.

The skills and experience you need

Many employers regard a degree as essential, but the subject is generally less important than having the right personal skills. It is also possible to enter this profession with an HND.

A degree in any of the following subjects would be relevant to transport planning:

  • Transport management
  • Civil/ structural engineering
  • Urban planning
  • Mathematics
  • Geography
  • Geographical information systems
  • Business studies
  • Social science
  • Environmental science
  • Economics

Candidates with a postgraduate degree in transport planning, management or engineering are in particular demand.

Summer placement schemes are an option as consultants are often happy to offer unpaid experience. This will demonstrate motivation and may even secure an eventual job placement.

Anyone considering a career in transport planning will need to be numerate and able to interpret statistics, good at dealing with people at all levels, and have an aptitude for teamwork and problem-solving. Computer literacy is also important.

Likely types of employer

  • Planning or transport consultancies, providing travel plans for clients such as schools, hospitals and developers
  • Local authorities, producing local transport plans and assessing new developments in terms of transport
  • Strategic rail, bus and train operators
  • Freight companies
  • Universities and research establishments

Salary ranges

Starting salaries are likely to be from £18,000 to £20,000. Typical salaries at senior level (after about 10-15 years) are between £35,000 and £60,000.

Directors in local authorities are likely to earn around £70,000, while directors in consultancies may earn between £60,000 and £100,000.

More information