Transport Planner
Transport planners work on a variety of projects related to transport developments. They can undertake work including designing and implementing surveys, collecting and analysing data, modelling and drawing, report and presentation writing and client liaison.Transport planning work focuses on designing, assessing and implementing projects and policies to improve the transport systems around the UK. There is a need for transport planning activity on a local, regional and national level. Planners have to be aware of current issues, such as health and safety, social inclusion and environmental issues as these can impact on planning activities and project objectives.
Activities for transport planners can include projects such as new passenger transport terminals/hubs, introducing new infrastructures or improving road layouts. Transport planners also work to encourage the use of alternative methods of transport instead of private vehicles.
Transport planners can earn around £20000 or more when they are newly recruited. Starting salaries for those already working in the industry, as a transport planning technician for example, may be able to earn more. Salary will also increase with experience.
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Working environment
Most work for a transport planner is office-based, though they can also spend time visiting sites, so they can assess current transport and traffic situations or evaluate the impact of their plans on the surrounding area. They may also have to attend evening meetings where they can present their plans and gauge opinions.Standard hours for transport planners are 37 to 40 hours a week. This can increase when there are large projects or if there are additional meetings to attend.
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Skills and interests
Transport planners need to be interested in transport and the effects that it can have economically, environmentally and socially.Transport planners need to be skilled in:
- communication, including report writing and presenting
- using information technology including specific planning software tools
- project management
- analysing data
The ability to develop creative ideas and solutions to problems is also important.
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Entry into the role
Transport planners are normally recruited after they have gained a degree, or sometimes a postgraduate qualification.Relevant subjects include geography, civil engineering, town or transport planning and environmental science. Other subjects such as maths, social science or business can also be acceptable.
Some organisations may also recruit those who do not have degrees but who have got relevant work experience.
Currently there are around 12000 transport planners in the UK at the moment, however there is a need for some 600 to 900 new planners every year.
Transport planners work for local or national government, development agencies, transport companies or specialist consultancies. Vacancies are advertised in local and national press, on company websites and through specialist recruitment agencies including graduate recruitment schemes.
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Opportunities
Transport planners can progress to become consultants or senior planners. They can take on added responsibilities or develop industry specialisms.Transport planners can also study for industry related qualifications including:
- CILT (UK) level 3 Certificate in logistics and transport
- CILT (UK) level 5 professional diploma in logistics and transport
- CILT (UK) level 6 advanced diploma in logistics and transport
There are also industry specific continuing professional development courses available for transport planners.
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Useful links
- Transport Planning Society
- The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation
- Transportation Opportunities
- Planning Resource (magazine)
Case Studies
TRANSPORT PLANNING - transport planner
See an interview with a transport planner (links to Virtual Work Experience from Learning and Teaching Scotland).
View case study (external website)
TRANSPORT PLANNING - transport planner
See an interview with Andrew Radford, a transport planner for Birmingham City Council (links to Jobs4U careers database)
View case study (external website)