Transport planner
Transport planners manage road, rail and air transport networks at local, regional and national level.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- simulate transport problems using computer models
- analyse and interpret data from transport studies
- forecast the impact of new developments like shopping centres
- look at schemes to manage traffic, like congestion charging or parking controls
- study accident 'black spots' to design road safety improvements
- write reports for funding bids and planning authorities
- act as an expert witness during public enquiries
- promote the benefits of public transport, cycling and walking to get around
Working environment
You could work in an office or visit sites.
Career path and progression
There are opportunities to work in the public and private sector, from local and central government to transport companies, small and large consultancies.
You could become a senior transport planner or traffic engineer and manage projects or teams. You might also move into town planning, policy development or environmental consultancy.
You may improve your career prospects by completing the Transport Planning Professional qualification, or by getting chartered status with a relevant professional body.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- design skills and knowledge
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with others
- complex problem-solving skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
You can do a degree and then join an organisation as a trainee transport planner. Most subjects are accepted though you may have an advantage if you study:
- geography
- civil engineering
- economics
- town planning
- environmental science
- business studies
Many graduates go on to do a postgraduate qualification in transport planning approved by the Transport Planning Society.
Getting work experience through internships, summer placements or a year in industry may give you an advantage when applying for graduate roles. Your university careers service can help you to find opportunities during your studies.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
More Information
You can apply to do a Transport Planning Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Transport Scheduler Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You might then move on to do a Transport Planner Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Transport Planning Society or The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a transport planner from the Transport Planning Society.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.