JOB PROFILE

What Is a Highways Design Engineer?

IN THIS JOB PROFILE

You Will Learn.

  • What is a Highways Design Engineer?
  • What are the responsibilities of a Highways Design Engineer? 
  • What qualifications does a Highways Design Engineer need?
  • What is the average salary of a Highways Design Engineer?
  • Who employs a Highways Design Engineer?
  • What skills does a Highways Design Engineer need?
  • Where the latest Highways Design Engineer jobs are and how to apply for them.
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What Is a Highways Design Engineer?

A Highways Design Engineer is a professional responsible for planning and designing road and transportation infrastructure. They focus on creating efficient and safe road networks, considering factors such as traffic flow, road safety, and environmental impact. 

Their role involves utilising engineering principles to develop detailed designs, incorporating elements like road geometry, traffic signals, and drainage systems.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Highways Design Engineer?

A Highways Design Engineers primary duties include designing road layouts that prioritise safety, efficiency, and sustainability, while adhering to established engineering principles and regulatory standards. 

They are responsible for creating detailed designs that encompass road geometry, traffic management systems, and drainage infrastructure, aiming to optimise traffic flow and minimise environmental impact. 

Highways Design Engineers collaborate closely with local authorities, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure that road designs align with urban planning goals and meet the needs of the community. 


While working as a Highways Design Engineer, you will be required to:

  • Design road layouts prioritising safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
  • Create detailed designs encompassing road geometry, traffic management systems, and drainage infrastructure.
  • Collaborate with local authorities, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure alignment with urban planning goals.
  • Conduct feasibility studies and evaluate potential risks.
  • Propose solutions to improve road networks and address transportation challenges.
  • Contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable transportation solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

To become a Highways Design Engineer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field.

Additionally, postgraduate qualifications or certifications in transportation engineering, highway engineering, or related disciplines can enhance one's expertise in the field. Practical experience gained through internships or work placements in engineering firms or local authorities is highly beneficial. 

Continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in transportation engineering are also necessary to excel in this field.

On average, a Highways Design Engineer earns between £35,000 and £65,000 per year. 

However, this can vary based on factors such as experience, location, the specific organisation, and the complexity of the role.

The majority of Highways Design Engineer jobs are found within local authorities and government agencies responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of public transportation infrastructure. 

Engineering consultancy firms and construction companies often employ Highways Design Engineers to work on a wide range of infrastructure projects for both public and private sector clients. 

Transportation and infrastructure development firms also seek Highways Design Engineers to contribute their expertise to the planning and execution of large-scale transportation projects.

What Skills Does a Highways Design Engineer Need?

A Highways Design Engineer must possess strong technical proficiency in civil engineering principles, including a comprehensive understanding of transportation design standards and practices, is essential. 

Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and transportation modelling tools is crucial for creating detailed and accurate design plans. Effective project management skills are vital for overseeing complex infrastructure projects, adhering to strict deadlines, and managing resources efficiently. 

Excellent communication skills are necessary for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and local authorities to ensure that design plans align with urban development objectives and community needs. 


Key skills of a Highways Design Engineer include:

  • Technical proficiency in civil engineering principles and transportation design standards.
  • Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and transportation modelling tools.
  • Project management skills for overseeing complex infrastructure projects.
  • Effective communication abilities for collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
  • Analytical skills for conducting comprehensive feasibility studies and risk assessments.
  • Problem-solving capabilities for resolving design complexities and ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Adaptability and willingness to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in transportation engineering.

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