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

Aug 20, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Traffic Signal Design Technicians play a vital role in keeping roads safe. By working closely with engineers and planners, they develop, design, test and maintain traffic signals across the country. This helps ensure that motorists and pedestrians alike are able to navigate safely and efficiently.

Through their efforts, traffic signal technicians help reduce the potential for car accidents, improve road safety, and reduce the volume of traffic on congested streets and highways. their work helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by enabling vehicles to move more quickly, leading to less wasted fuel. As Traffic Signal Design Technicians continue to innovate and improve how traffic signals are designed and operated, the safety and efficiency of roads will only improve.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most positions as a Traffic Signal Design Technician require at least a high school diploma or GED.
Consider Completing a Postsecondary Program. A postsecondary program in electrical engineering or a related field is beneficial for those interested in becoming a Traffic Signal Design Technician.
Gain Relevant Work Experience. Many employers prefer to hire individuals with work experience in the field. Obtaining an entry-level job in the industry and working your way up is a great way to gain relevant experience.
Obtain Certification. Professional certification is not required to become a Traffic Signal Design Technician, but it can help you stand out from other applicants and is a great way to demonstrate expertise.
Become Familiar with Local Regulations and Laws. Traffic signal design technicians must be familiar with local regulations and laws that pertain to traffic control and signal design. This knowledge is necessary to ensure that designs are compliant with regulations.

An effective traffic signal design technician must possess both technical knowledge and practical expertise. Having a thorough understanding of the engineering principles related to signalization and the associated equipment is essential in order to design safe and efficient traffic signal systems. In addition, technical proficiency in computer aided design and traffic signal system analysis software is a key component of the job.

Furthermore, a successful technician must have an understanding of the local traffic engineering policies, regulations and guidelines in order to provide cost effective solutions that meet the needs of the community. Practical experience and on-the-job training are also important for developing a well-rounded technician who can provide accurate designs and ensure compliance with all applicable standards.

You may want to check Traffic Signal Technician Supervisor, Airport Security Supervisor, and Traffic Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare and analyze traffic signal design plans, including signal timing and phasing plans.
Conduct traffic signal operations and safety reviews.
Install and maintain traffic signal hardware and software.
Monitor and adjust traffic signal operations for optimal performance.
Coordinate and communicate with other agencies and stakeholders.
Prepare permit applications, traffic signal and street lighting plans, and other related documents.
Provide technical assistance to the public on traffic signal related matters.
Develop signal timing strategies to meet operational objectives.
Assist with traffic signal system maintenance and troubleshooting.
Interpret traffic engineering standards and regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of traffic engineering principles and practices.
Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and codes.
Knowledge of traffic signal operation, timing, and phasing.
Ability to prepare and design traffic signal plans.
Knowledge of applicable software programs such as SYNCHRO, TRANSYT, and HCS for traffic signal design.
Ability to communicate effectively with other personnel and the public.
Ability to work in a team environment.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations related to traffic signals.
Knowledge of safety practices related to traffic signal design.
Ability to manage multiple projects at once.

Traffic signal design technicians play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of roads. They are responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining traffic signals and related equipment, as well as for providing technical support and advice to both the public and private sector. To be successful in this role, technicians must possess a broad range of skills, including communication, problem solving, and technical knowledge.

Good communication skills are essential for communicating with clients and colleagues, while problem solving and technical knowledge enable technicians to troubleshoot issues and devise solutions. knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software is necessary for creating accurate drawings and simulations of traffic lights and other equipment. The ability to work both independently and with a team is also important for ensuring the successful completion of projects.

traffic signal design technicians help to ensure the safe and efficient operation of roads, which can then lead to a reduction in traffic incidents and improved safety for drivers.

Airport Passenger Service Agent, Highway Traffic Signal Maintenance Supervisor, and Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Coordinator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in traffic signal design?
What challenges have you faced in traffic signal design projects?
How would you approach a complex traffic signal design project?
Describe a successful traffic signal design project you have worked on.
How do you ensure that traffic signal designs are up to local and federal standards?
What techniques do you use to ensure the accuracy of your traffic signal designs?
How do you stay up to date on the latest traffic signal design regulations?
How do you prioritize tasks when working on a traffic signal design project?
What techniques do you use to troubleshoot traffic signal design issues?
How do you communicate effectively with stakeholders when working on a traffic signal design project?

Common Tools in Industry

Synchro Traffic Analysis Software. Used to analyze the various traffic signals and their performance, as well as traffic flow. (eg: Synchro 9)
Visual Studio. Used to develop custom programs to control and manage traffic signals. (eg: Visual Studio 2019)
AutoCAD. Used to design and build custom traffic signal layouts and drawings. (eg: AutoCAD Civil 3D 2020)
GIS Software. Used to create, analyze, and manage geographic data for traffic signal design projects. (eg: ArcGIS Pro)
Microcontroller Programming Software. Used to program microcontrollers for traffic signal control. (eg: Atmel Studio 7)
Traffic Signal Timing Software. Used to calculate the timing for traffic signals based on specific traffic conditions. (eg: SCATSIM)
CAD/CAM Software. Used to create 3D models of traffic signals for design and manufacture. (eg: SolidWorks 2020)
Networking Software. Used to configure and monitor networks that support traffic signals. (eg: Cisco IOS)

Professional Organizations to Know

Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)
International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA)
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
American Public Works Association (APWA)
American Automobile Association (AAA)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Transportation Research Board (TRB)
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
International Dark-Sky Association (IDA)
Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America)

We also have Highway Traffic Signal System Technician, Traffic Controller, and Highway Traffic Signal Design Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Traffic Signal Controller. A device used to control the timing of traffic signals. This includes adjusting the duration for each signal phase, coordinating signal phases with neighboring intersections, and responding to changes in traffic volume.
Traffic Signal Timing. The process of setting the timing of traffic control signals in order to accommodate the needs of specific roadways and traffic flows.
Signal Phasing. The sequence of signal indications (e. g. green, yellow, red) and the duration of each indication at an intersection.
Signal Splitting. A strategy for managing traffic flows by splitting the signal into two or more independent phases, each with its own set of signal indications.
Flashing Mode. A signal indication that alternates between green and red. It is used to indicate a temporary condition such as a construction zone or emergency situation.
Pedestrian Clearance Interval. The amount of time allocated at a signalized intersection for pedestrians to cross the roadway.
Preemption. The ability of an emergency vehicle or other priority vehicle to take control of a traffic signal to facilitate its passage through an intersection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic responsibilities of a Traffic Signal Design Technician?

The primary responsibility of a Traffic Signal Design Technician is to design, install, maintain and repair traffic control systems, including traffic signals, signs, lighting and related equipment.

What qualifications are typically required for this position?

Generally, Traffic Signal Design Technicians must possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate knowledge of engineering principles and traffic control systems. In addition, prior experience in the field may be required.

What physical abilities are important for this job?

Traffic Signal Design Technicians must be able to frequently climb ladders, lift up to 50 pounds, and bend and kneel to install and repair equipment. They should also be comfortable working in all types of weather conditions and with hazardous materials.

What kind of tools and equipment do Traffic Signal Design Technicians use?

Traffic Signal Design Technicians commonly use a variety of tools and equipment, including hand tools, power tools, wiring devices, testing equipment, and computer-aided design (CAD) software.

What type of environment do Traffic Signal Design Technicians work in?

Traffic Signal Design Technicians typically work both indoors in offices and outdoors in all types of weather conditions and terrains. They may also work on roadsides, in construction sites, or in noisy urban environments.