Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Traffic Control Person

🎯 Role Definition

As a Traffic Control Person (TCP), you are the front line of safety for our construction projects. Your primary objective is to protect workers, pedestrians, and motorists by safely directing traffic flow around work areas. This position requires constant alertness, clear communication, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions in a fast-paced environment. You will be responsible for implementing traffic control plans, setting up and maintaining safe work zones, and serving as a visible, authoritative point of contact for the public. This is more than just holding a sign; it's about actively managing risk and ensuring every person gets home safely at the end of the day.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer or Construction Laborer
Recent High School Graduate or Entry-Level Candidate
Security Guard or Event Staff

Advancement To:

Lead Traffic Control Person / Traffic Control Supervisor
Site Safety Officer or Coordinator
Construction Foreman or Site Superintendent

Lateral Moves:

Equipment Spotter
Pilot Car Driver
Site Logistics Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Skillfully direct and control the flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic around construction sites, accident scenes, and other disruptions to ensure the safety of workers and the general public.
Utilize standardized hand signals, traffic signs (e.g., STOP/SLOW paddles), and other approved signaling devices to communicate clear instructions to drivers and pedestrians.
Implement and interpret traffic control plans (TCPs), blueprints, and diagrams to properly set up, manage, and dismantle traffic control zones according to regulations.
Strategically place, move, and maintain traffic control devices such as cones, drums, barricades, and signage to create safe and effective lane closures, detours, and work zones.
Maintain constant, clear communication with other traffic controllers, equipment operators, and site supervisors using two-way radios or other communication systems.
Proactively monitor the work zone and surrounding areas for potential hazards, safety violations, or changing conditions that could impact the safety of the crew or public.
Provide courteous and clear information to motorists and pedestrians regarding detours, delays, and the nature of the work being performed.
Conduct thorough pre-shift inspections of all traffic control equipment, including signs, personal protective equipment (PPE), and communication devices, to ensure they are in proper working condition.
Maintain a high level of situational awareness and alertness for extended periods, remaining vigilant to erratic drivers, emergency vehicles, and changing traffic patterns.
Document and report any traffic incidents, accidents, or near-misses to the site supervisor immediately and assist in completing required reports.
Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations, including those set by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), OSHA, and local transportation authorities.
Act as a "spotter" for heavy equipment operators, guiding them safely as they navigate in and out of the work zone to prevent collisions.
Manage public access to the work site, ensuring only authorized personnel are permitted entry and preventing public intrusion into hazardous areas.
Operate a pilot car or escort vehicle to guide oversized loads or direct traffic through complex or extended work zones, as required by the project.
Endure and perform effectively in a variety of challenging weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, and wind, while wearing required PPE.
Assist in emergency situations by directing emergency vehicles safely through the work zone and helping to secure the area.
Complete daily activity logs, documenting traffic flow, equipment placement, and any notable events that occurred during the shift.
Act as the primary point of contact for the public, professionally addressing concerns and complaints while maintaining a positive and authoritative presence.
Participate in pre-job safety briefings (e.g., "toolbox talks") to understand the day's tasks, associated risks, and the specific traffic control plan.
Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring traffic control devices are properly stored and secured when not in use.

Secondary Functions

Assist the construction crew with general labor tasks during periods of low traffic or downtime, such as site cleanup, material handling, or basic tool operation.
Perform light maintenance and cleaning of traffic control devices and vehicles to ensure their longevity and visibility.
Support new team members by providing on-the-job guidance and demonstrating proper signaling techniques and safety protocols.
Participate in ongoing safety training, certification renewals, and professional development sessions to stay current with industry best practices and regulations.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Valid Traffic Control Person (TCP) / Flagger Certification from a recognized authority (e.g., ATSSA, state DOT).
In-depth knowledge of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and relevant state/local traffic laws.
Proficiency in reading and executing Traffic Control Plans (TCPs) and site-specific safety plans.
Competence in using two-way radios and other communication devices for clear and concise instruction.
Ability to properly set up, maintain, and break down traffic control zones using cones, barricades, signs, and arrow boards.
Basic First Aid and CPR certification is highly preferred.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record, often required for operating company vehicles or pilot cars.
Physical ability to stand for 8-12 hours, lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and work in varying weather conditions.
Understanding of basic hazard recognition and risk assessment in a construction environment.
Experience operating a pilot car for traffic escort duties is a significant asset.

Soft Skills

Exceptional situational awareness and a constant state of alertness.
Unwavering commitment to safety protocols for yourself, your team, and the public.
Clear, calm, and authoritative communication skills (both verbal and non-verbal).
Punctuality, dependability, and a strong work ethic.
Ability to remain calm, patient, and professional, especially when dealing with frustrated motorists.
Strong decision-making skills to react quickly and appropriately to unexpected events.
Team-oriented mindset with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse crew members.
High degree of personal responsibility and integrity.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Completion of a vocational program in construction safety or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

N/A
Construction Management (for advancement)

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0 - 2 years. This is often an entry-level position, and we provide certification and on-the-job training for the right candidates.

Preferred:

6+ months of prior experience as a Traffic Control Person, Flagger, or in a general construction labor role.
A valid and current driver's license with a clean MVR (Motor Vehicle Record).
Verifiable experience working in outdoor environments and on active roadways.