How to Be Highway Traffic Signal System Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 5, 2021 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Highway Traffic Signal System Technician plays an important role in keeping vehicles safe on the roads and highways. They are responsible for maintaining and servicing traffic signals, ensuring they are working correctly and safely. This includes inspecting signals, replacing bulbs, troubleshooting and repairing electrical components, and programming signal timing.

When these signals are not functioning properly, it can cause traffic delays, accidents, and even fatalities. Therefore, it is essential that these technicians ensure all signals are working properly, so that traffic can flow safely and efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. The first step in becoming a highway traffic signal system technician is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
Obtain Vocational Training. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have received some form of vocational training. Vocational training is available through community colleges, technical schools, and online programs.
Earn a Certificate or Associates Degree. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have earned a certificate or associates degree in electrical engineering, electronics technology, or related field.
Gain Work Experience. The best way to gain experience as a highway traffic signal system technician is to find an entry-level position in the industry. This could be with a private company, public agency, or government contractor.
Pursue Certification. Certified technicians may have better job prospects than those without certification. Certification is available through several organizations, including the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI).
Maintain Certification. In order to maintain certification, technicians must complete continuing education courses to stay up to date with industry standards.

Highway traffic signal system technicians must be ideal and capable in order to ensure the safety of drivers on the road. They must have a thorough knowledge of traffic signals and the regulations that govern their operation. They must also possess the technical skills to install, maintain, and repair traffic signal systems.

In addition, they must be able to troubleshoot and diagnose problems with components like lights, timing devices, and controllers. Furthermore, they must be able to work closely with government agencies to ensure the system meets all safety regulations. In short, the ideal and capable highway traffic signal system technician is an essential part of keeping drivers safe on the roads.

You may want to check Airport Terminal Services Supervisor, Pedestrian and Bicycle Traffic Planner, and Highway Traffic Signal Maintenance Supervisor for alternative.

Job Description

Monitor and maintain existing traffic signal systems, including all hardware and software components, to ensure proper system operation.
Install, configure, and test new traffic signal systems and associated equipment.
Identify and troubleshoot system problems and malfunctions.
Respond to emergency system failures and provide emergency repairs.
Create detailed reports of preventative maintenance activities performed on traffic signal systems.
Inspect and evaluate existing traffic signal systems for needed repairs, upgrades, or replacements.
Perform software programming and updates to traffic signal controllers.
Operate diagnostic tools and test equipment to diagnose system faults and malfunctions.
Develop detailed work plans and estimates for traffic signal system projects.
Provide on-site technical assistance to contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders.
Follow established safety protocols and procedures while working on traffic signal systems.
Keep abreast of industry best practices and evolving technologies related to traffic signal systems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of electrical and electronic principles, including circuitry, circuit components, and troubleshooting methods.
Familiarity with operating systems and computer programs related to traffic signal operations.
Ability to read and interpret schematics, diagrams, and blueprints.
Understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local wiring and installation regulations.
Proficiency in using hand and power tools, including soldering irons, drills, saws, and wrenches.
Knowledge of traffic signal controllers and associated equipment, such as detectors, video detection systems, and communication systems.
Ability to perform preventive maintenance and emergency repairs on traffic signal systems.
Skill in testing, calibrating, and adjusting traffic signal systems and components.
Experience in programming traffic signal controllers and other equipment.
Ability to respond to emergency service calls in a timely manner.

Having a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician with the necessary skills is essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of traffic on the roadways. Good communication and problem solving skills are essential for the technician to be successful. Being able to read blueprints, diagrams, and schematics to identify and understand the components of the system is an important skill.

Knowing how to troubleshoot, locate and diagnose problems and repair the system is also a must. Lastly, having a good understanding of electrical theory and being able to properly install and configure new systems is critical. All of these skills work together in harmony to ensure that traffic signals operate correctly and efficiently for the safety of all drivers.

Traffic Signal Technician Supervisor, Airport Traffic Management Specialist, and Highway Traffic Operations Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with highway traffic signal systems?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue with a traffic signal system?
How have you used technology to streamline the process of maintaining/repairing a traffic signal system?
What safety procedures do you follow when working on a traffic signal system?
How would you handle a situation when your supervisor requests a task that is not within your scope of work?
How have you worked with other departments or agencies to ensure the efficient functioning of traffic signal systems?
What software programs have you used to monitor, analyze, and report on traffic signal systems?
How would you respond to an emergency situation involving a traffic signal system?
What methods do you use to ensure that traffic signal systems are properly calibrated and functioning according to standards?
What strategies do you use to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in traffic signal systems?

Common Tools in Industry

Multimeters. Used to measure electric current, voltage, and resistance. (eg: Fluke 87V Multimeter)
Circuit Testers. Used to identify wiring, circuit paths, and continuity. (eg: Klein Tools ET100 Circuit Tester)
Crimpers/Strippers. Used to cut, strip, and crimp wires. (eg: Klein Tools 11057 Crimper/Stripper)
Ladder. Used for safe access to hard to reach areas. (eg: Louisville Ladder Aluminum Platform Ladder)
Wrenches. Used to tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. (eg: Craftsman 9-44132 Combination Wrench Set)
Screwdrivers. Used to tighten or loosen screws in various materials. (eg: Craftsman 9-47137 Screwdriver Set)
Pliers. Used to grip, twist, and bend materials such as wires. (eg: Channellock 8WCB WideAzz Adjustable Wrench)
Torque Wrench. Used to measure the amount of force applied to a nut or bolt. (eg: Tekton 24335 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench)
Network Cable Tester. Used to test the integrity of Ethernet cables and connections. (eg: Fluke Networks DTX-1800 Cable Analyzer)
Signal Generator. Used to generate various electrical signals for testing and troubleshooting. (eg: Rigol DG1022Z Arbitrary Waveform Generator)

Professional Organizations to Know

Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
National Association of County Engineers (NACE)
Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA)
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
Traffic Control Products Group (TCPG)
American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

We also have Traffic Signal Design Supervisor, Traffic Signal Timing Engineer, and Airport Passenger Service Agent jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Traffic Control Devices. Equipment used to control the flow of traffic, such as stop signs, yield signs, and traffic signals.
Traffic Signal Timing. The timing of traffic signals used to control the flow of traffic.
Traffic Signal Maintenance. The process of inspecting, testing, and repairing traffic signals
Electrical Systems. The electrical wiring and equipment used to power and control traffic signals.
Communication Systems. The communication systems used to control traffic signals and receive data from them.
Computer Programming. The programming of traffic signal controllers to operate the signals according to predetermined settings.
Troubleshooting. The process of diagnosing and resolving issues with traffic signal systems.
Regulatory Compliance. Ensuring that traffic signals meet local, state, and federal regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician?

Highway Traffic Signal System Technicians typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized training in electrical engineering and traffic signal operations.

What type of tasks do Highway Traffic Signal System Technicians perform?

Highway Traffic Signal System Technicians are responsible for installing, operating, testing, and maintaining traffic signals, pedestrian crossings, and other traffic control systems. They may also be responsible for programming traffic signal controllers, repairing damaged traffic signals, and ensuring proper functioning of the system.

How long does it take to become a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician?

It typically takes about three years of apprenticeship for an individual to become a certified Highway Traffic Signal System Technician.

What is the salary range for a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician?

The salary range for a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician can vary depending on experience and location, but the median annual wage is approximately $50,000.

What type of work environment is typical for a Highway Traffic Signal System Technician?

Highway Traffic Signal System Technicians typically work outdoors in all weather conditions and must be able to lift heavy objects. They may also be exposed to dangerous situations such as working in traffic or near high voltage electricity.

Web Resources

Traffic Signal Technician Certificate Program | T2 Center www.cti.uconn.edu
Traffic Electronic Technician - Autry Technology Center autrytech.edu
Traffic Signal Laboratory - University of Florida Transportation www.transportation.institute.ufl.edu