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Traffic Engineers

Transportation & Material Movinghighaugment
BLS 2024-34: +5%
Median Wage: $95,890
Employment: 28K

Overall Exposure

52+14

2025 vs 2023

Theoretical Exposure

69

What AI could do

Observed Exposure

32

What AI actually does

Automation Risk Score

40

Displacement risk

3-Year Outlook (2025 → 2028)

Projected changes in AI automation metrics over the next 3 years based on estimated data.

Overall Exposure

52→67
+15

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Theoretical Exposure

69→84
+15

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Observed Exposure

32→47
+15

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Automation Risk

40→53
+13

2025 → 2028 (estimated)

Exposure Metrics (2023 - 2028)

Detailed Metrics Table

YearOverallTheoreticalObservedRiskData Type
202338551828actual
202445622534actual
202552693240actual
202658753845estimated
202763804349estimated
202867844753estimated

Task Breakdown

Analyze traffic flow data and model congestion patterns
72%β 1
Design signal timing plans and intersection layouts
58%β 0.5
Conduct traffic impact studies for new developments
50%β 0.5
Implement and calibrate intelligent transportation systems
45%β 0.5
Coordinate with public agencies on road safety improvements
20%β 0

About This Occupation

If you work as a Traffic Engineer, AI is reshaping your profession. With an automation risk of 40/100 and overall exposure at 52%, this role faces high transformation. The highest-impact area is analyze traffic flow data and model congestion patterns at 72% automation. This is classified as an 'augment' role. BLS projects +5% growth through 2034. Engineers who harness AI-driven simulation and real-time sensor data will design smarter, safer transportation networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

With an automation risk score of 40%, Traffic Engineers faces a moderate level of AI-driven change. Some tasks can be automated, but many require human judgment, creativity, or interpersonal skills that AI cannot yet replicate. The role is more likely to evolve alongside AI than be replaced.

The AI automation risk score for Traffic Engineers is 40% (2025 data). Overall AI exposure is 52%, with 69% theoretical exposure and 32% observed exposure. The risk trend from 2023 to 2025 is +12 points.

The tasks with the highest automation potential for Traffic Engineers are: Analyze traffic flow data and model congestion patterns (72%), Design signal timing plans and intersection layouts (58%), Conduct traffic impact studies for new developments (50%). These rates reflect how much of each task current AI systems can handle, based on research data from Anthropic and academic sources.

The BLS projects +5% employment change for Traffic Engineers from 2024 to 2034. Combined with an overall AI exposure of 52%, this occupation is experiencing both traditional labor market shifts and AI-driven transformation. Workers should monitor both employment trends and AI capability growth.

Since AI primarily augments capabilities in this role, professionals in Traffic Engineers should embrace AI as a productivity multiplier. Focus on learning to use AI tools effectively, developing higher-order analytical and creative skills, and positioning yourself as someone who can leverage AI to deliver greater value.