Traffic Control Technician
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Set up temporary traffic control zones using cones, signs, barrels, and barricades
- Install and operate portable traffic signals and warning lights
- Direct vehicle and pedestrian movement when required
- Inspect traffic control setups and adjust them as conditions change
- Follow approved traffic control plans and report issues to supervisors
- Maintain equipment, load and unload trucks, and keep work areas organized
- Document daily setups, incidents, and equipment needs
- Support safe work practices during night work and adverse weather
Top Skills for Success
Safety Awareness
Attention to Detail
Clear Communication
Situational Awareness
Basic Math
Equipment Handling
Temporary Traffic Control Setup
Traffic Control Plan Reading
Work Zone Inspection
Incident Reporting
Customer Service
Knowledge of Local Road Rules
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Construction Laborer
Road Maintenance Worker
Flagger
Warehouse Associate
Delivery Driver
Transition Opportunities
Traffic Control Supervisor
Work Zone Safety Coordinator
Construction Foreman
Field Operations Supervisor
Safety Technician
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Traffic Control Plan ReadingWork Zone InspectionIncident ReportingBasic Computer SkillsConflict De escalation
Development SuggestionsBuild confidence by practicing plan reading with a supervisor, using checklists for setup inspections, and keeping simple daily logs. Add basic computer skills for reporting and scheduling. Ask to shadow a lead technician to learn how to handle driver questions and tense situations calmly.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 35,000 to 45,000
Mid LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000
Senior LevelUSD 60,000 to 80,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand driven by road construction, utility upgrades, and ongoing maintenance work. Hiring can increase during peak construction seasons and in fast growing regions.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
AWP SafetyTraffic Management IncACME BarricadesAECOMJacobsKiewitGranite ConstructionLocal City Public Works DepartmentsState Department of Transportation ContractorsUtility Contractors
Industry Sectors
Road ConstructionUtility ConstructionInfrastructure MaintenanceTraffic Management ServicesMunicipal ServicesEngineering ServicesEvent Operations
Recommended Next Steps
1
Get the required traffic control certification for your region2
Learn standard work zone setups and practice accurate sign placement3
Create a simple checklist for pre shift equipment inspection4
Track completed setups and any issues to show reliability during reviews5
Ask for opportunities to lead small setups to build supervisor readiness6
Maintain a clean driving record and consider obtaining a commercial driver license if common in your area