What does a transport planner do?
Transport planners are responsible for assessing, designing and developing strategies that improve travel systems across road, rail and active travel networks. Employed by both public and private sector organisations, they analyse transport data, model how people and goods are likely to move in future, and put forward infrastructure proposals that meet environmental, social and economic objectives.
The role is central to shaping urban mobility, easing congestion and enabling sustainable development. Day to day, transport planners collaborate with local authorities, consultancies and developers, supporting infrastructure planning on everything from major road schemes to strategic urban extensions. Employers commonly expect experience of transport modelling and GIS software such as VISUM, Saturn and ArcGIS.
How much does a transport planner earn?
In 2026, graduate transport planners earn around £28,500 (or £29,000 with an MEng), rising to £35,000 at assistant level and £39,000 for transport planner roles. Senior transport planners average £49,000, or £53,000 once chartered, while principal transport planners earn around £58,000, rising to £63,000 for chartered principals. Associate transport planners average £70,000 (£73,000 when chartered), associate directors of transportation around £80,000 and technical directors of transportation £82,000, with director-level roles in transport planning paying between £95,000 and £120,000. In the public sector, transport planners earn £37,000 to £55,000 on a permanent basis, or £40 to £60 per hour on contract.
These figures come from Carrington West's salary surveys, which are published every 6 months to give built environment professionals invaluable market analysis and salary benchmarking insight. You can view and download the full documents below.
What industries do transport planners work in?
Carrington West places transport planners into both permanent and contract roles across the highways, transport & infrastructure sector. |
To browse the latest transport planner roles with leading public and private sector organisations across the UK, use the link below to visit Carrington West's job search.