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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Traffic Control Specialist

💰 $ - $

ConstructionTransportationSafetyGeneral Labor

🎯 Role Definition

A Traffic Control Specialist is a frontline safety professional responsible for protecting workers, the public, and property by implementing and managing temporary traffic control systems. This role is pivotal in maintaining safe and efficient traffic flow around construction sites, accident scenes, and special events. The specialist applies a deep understanding of traffic management principles and regulatory standards to create a secure environment, directing road users and coordinating with construction crews to prevent incidents and minimize disruption. Success in this position hinges on vigilance, clear communication, and an unwavering commitment to safety protocols.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • General Construction Laborer
  • Warehouse Associate
  • High School Graduate with relevant certifications

Advancement To:

  • Lead Traffic Control Technician
  • Traffic Control Supervisor / Foreman
  • Project Safety Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • Equipment Operator
  • Construction Safety Officer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Expertly set up, maintain, and remove temporary traffic control work zones, including cones, barricades, signs, and other warning devices according to federal (MUTCD) and local regulations.
  • Direct and control the movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic through construction sites and other temporary disruptions using hand signals, signs, and two-way radios.
  • Communicate effectively with fellow crew members, construction personnel, and the general public to provide clear direction and ensure a safe and coordinated environment.
  • Thoroughly review and interpret traffic control plans, diagrams, and work orders to ensure proper implementation and compliance on-site.
  • Conduct pre-operational risk assessments of the work zone to identify potential hazards and implement necessary control measures before work begins.
  • Continuously monitor traffic patterns and work zone conditions, making real-time adjustments to traffic control devices as needed to optimize safety and traffic flow.
  • Operate pilot cars or lead/follow vehicles to guide convoys or oversized loads safely through designated routes and work zones.
  • Provide clear and courteous information to motorists regarding detours, delays, and the nature of the work being performed.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for emergency vehicles, ensuring they have immediate and safe passage through the work zone.
  • Maintain constant situational awareness of the entire work area, including the movement of heavy equipment, construction personnel, and the public.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on all traffic control equipment, such as signs, lights, and barricades, to ensure they are in good working condition.
  • Securely load and unload traffic control equipment and materials from company vehicles, ensuring proper handling and storage.
  • Immediately report any safety violations, accidents, incidents, or near-misses to the site supervisor or safety manager.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment, including company vehicles and equipment storage areas.
  • Assist in the training and mentoring of new traffic control personnel on proper procedures and safety protocols.

Secondary Functions

  • Complete and submit detailed daily activity reports, including equipment usage logs, incident reports, and timesheets, in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Collaborate with project managers and site supervisors to plan and coordinate upcoming traffic control needs for different phases of a project.
  • Participate in daily safety briefings (toolbox talks) to discuss the day's tasks, potential hazards, and emergency procedures.
  • Ensure all required personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn correctly and maintained in good condition at all times.
  • Provide assistance to the construction crew with non-technical tasks during periods of low traffic or inactivity, as directed by the supervisor.
  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to traffic flow and incident rates.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by providing on-the-ground insights.
  • Collaborate with business units to translate data needs into engineering requirements for traffic monitoring.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team when developing new traffic analysis tools.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • State-issued Traffic Control/Flagger Certification (e.g., ATSSA, CCA).
  • In-depth knowledge of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and relevant state/local regulations.
  • Ability to read and interpret Traffic Control Plans (TCPs), blueprints, and site maps.
  • Proficient in the setup, placement, and removal of various traffic control devices (cones, drums, signs, arrow boards).
  • Competency in using two-way radios for clear and concise communication.
  • Physical stamina and the ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in varying weather conditions.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Situational Awareness: The ability to constantly monitor and assess the surrounding environment for potential hazards from vehicles, equipment, and pedestrians.
  • Clear and Assertive Communication: Capable of giving direct, unambiguous instructions to drivers and crew members in a calm and professional manner.
  • Teamwork and Collaboration: Works effectively with a diverse team of construction professionals to achieve a common safety goal.
  • Rapid Problem-Solving: Ability to think quickly and adapt to changing traffic conditions, unexpected events, or equipment malfunctions.
  • Dependability and Punctuality: A strong sense of responsibility and commitment to being on-site and ready to work as scheduled.
  • Resilience and Composure: The capacity to remain calm and focused under pressure, especially when dealing with frustrated motorists or emergency situations.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous in following safety plans and procedures to prevent errors that could lead to accidents.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid state-issued Flagger/Traffic Controller certification.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational training in construction safety or a related field.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Construction certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Construction Management
  • Occupational Health and Safety

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-3 years in a construction, traffic control, or general labor environment.

Preferred: At least 1 year of documented experience as a certified traffic controller or flagger in a roadway construction setting.

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