Traffic Technician

Your Fit

Income

$58K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

3.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Traffic Technician?

A Traffic Technician is responsible for the implementation, maintenance, and examination of traffic control devices and systems. They analyze traffic flow, conduct studies, and assist in the development of traffic management policies to improve road safety and efficiency.

Sample job titles:

Traffic Control Technician, Traffic Signal Technician (TST), Traffic Technician, Transportation Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Traffic Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Traffic Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$47K per year	$58K per year	$74K per year	$86K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $8.98K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Traffic Technician do?

Work environment

Traffic Technicians work for local or state government agencies, engineering firms, or traffic consulting services. Their work often involves both office settings for planning and analysis and fieldwork for data collection and system implementation. They may work outdoors in various weather conditions to inspect and maintain traffic control devices.

Quick task list

Conducts traffic surveys and studies to analyze flow and congestion.
Installs, maintains, and operates traffic monitoring equipment.
Develops and updates plans for traffic control systems.
Assists in the design and implementation of traffic management solutions.
Coordinates with law enforcement and public works departments on traffic issues.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Traffic Signal Technician: Specializing in the maintenance and operation of traffic signals.
Traffic Data Analyst: Focusing on the analysis of traffic flow data to inform policy and planning.
Road Safety Auditor: Conducting audits to assess and improve road safety features.
Transportation Planner Assistant: Assisting in the development of long-term traffic management and urban planning strategies.
Construction Traffic Coordinator: Managing traffic flow around construction sites to ensure safety and minimize disruption.

Description

Traffic Technicians play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of road networks. They collect and analyze data on traffic patterns, volume, and accidents, which are crucial in making informed decisions on traffic control and road safety. Their work often involves using specialized equipment to monitor traffic conditions and gather relevant data.

In addition to technical skills, Traffic Technicians must have strong analytical abilities to interpret data and identify trends. They often collaborate with engineers, urban planners, and law enforcement officials to develop and implement traffic management strategies. Understanding local and state traffic regulations is also essential.

The role requires a balance of fieldwork and office work. In the field, Technicians are hands-on with the installation and maintenance of traffic control devices, while office duties include data analysis, report writing, and planning. Keeping up with new technologies in traffic management and control systems is an important aspect of their professional development.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the safety and efficiency of public roadways.
The variety of tasks, including both hands-on technical work and data analysis.
The opportunity to impact community infrastructure positively.

You might make a good Traffic Technician if you are...

Interested in traffic systems and road safety.
Proficient in technical skills and enjoy hands-on work.
Strong in analytical thinking and problem-solving.
Able to work independently and as part of a team.
Comfortable with both outdoor fieldwork and office-based tasks.

Pros:

Diverse work environment with a mix of indoor and outdoor tasks.
Opportunities to work in public service and contribute to community safety.
Potential for career growth in various areas of traffic management and urban planning.

Cons:

Can involve working in adverse weather conditions.
May require dealing with stressful situations, especially in high-traffic areas.
The need to stay updated with changing traffic technology and regulations.

How to become a Traffic Technician

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma is required, with additional training in traffic technology or a related field. Some positions may require an associate degree or vocational training in civil engineering technology or traffic management.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and physics for understanding traffic flow and control systems.
Computer science for data analysis and operating traffic software.
Technical or vocational courses in engineering or automotive technology.
Geography for urban planning and traffic system layout understanding.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a robotics or engineering club.
Volunteering with local community service projects related to traffic and safety.
Participating in science fairs with projects related to transportation or urban planning.

Preparation after high school

Vocational or technical training in traffic technology or civil engineering technology.
Associate degree programs in civil engineering technology, urban planning, or a related field.
Internships or entry-level positions in government transportation departments or traffic consulting firms.

More resources

Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) - Offers resources and information for transportation professionals.
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) - Provides standards and guidelines in transportation.
National Highway Institute (NHI) - Offers training and education in highway and traffic technology.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) - Resource for the latest developments in road safety and traffic management.

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