Traffic Engineering Section Manager

City of Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Salary: $90,352 - $135,528

The selected candidate may also be eligible for the following recruitment incentives: up to a 10% differential for a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license and a one-time $3,000 hiring bonus.

Located in the high desert of central New Mexico, on the north border of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho is the third largest, and fastest-growing city in the state and is home to over 112,000 residents. Rio Rancho enjoys clear skies, magnificent views of the Sandia Mountain range, and a pleasant climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Ranked #35 of the top 50 Best Places to Live for Families in the US by Fortune.com in 2024, the city offers its residents affordable housing, excellent schools, and a low crime rate, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the city’s proximity to recreational amenities, including hiking trails in the Sandia Mountains, opportunities for skiing, numerous cycling routes, and nearby parks.

The Traffic Engineering Section Manager provides strategic leadership and oversight of the City’s traffic operations programs and is responsible for managing the City’s traffic control, engineering analysis, and roadway safety initiatives while supervising professional, technical, and field staff responsible for maintaining critical transportation infrastructure. The Traffic Section oversees a complex transportation network that includes more than 60 signalized intersections and the management of striping and pavement markings across over 450 centerline miles of roadway. The section is also responsible for regulatory and warning signage, coordination of street lighting infrastructure, and the implementation and maintenance of traffic control devices throughout the City.

The Traffic Section is responsible for an Operation and Maintenance budget of approximately $1.3 million, as well as additional funds received through Federal and State grant initiatives. The Section currently includes six full-time employees (FTEs), not including the Traffic Engineering Section Manager. The Section conducts a broad range of data-driven traffic engineering activities, including speed and volume studies, signal timing optimization, corridor operational reviews, and other engineering evaluations that support roadway safety and operational efficiency. The Section also provides technical review and guidance for development projects, capital improvement programs, and transportation planning initiatives. The Traffic Engineering Section Manager is responsible for establishing operational priorities, managing section budgets, scheduling of maintenance, and fostering strong collaboration with other City departments, regional transportation partners, and the community. The Traffic Engineering Section Manager plays a key role in advancing the City’s mobility and safety objectives by implementing innovative traffic management strategies, leveraging engineering data and technology, and leading initiatives that improve roadway safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a closely related discipline is required. Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) years of directly related experience in the engineering and construction of municipal infrastructure. Prior supervisory experience is desirable. Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of New Mexico, and Level II International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) certification are preferred.

For a complete position profile, full job description, benefits summary, and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on "Open Recruitments". For questions, call 206-368-0050. The City of Rio Rancho is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by May 24, 2026. (First review, open until filled.)