Traffic Technicians
Traffic technicians collect field data on road conditions, vehicle flow, and signal performance to support traffic engineering projects. They measure traffic volume and speed, evaluate signal timing and lighting effectiveness, and document findings that inform infrastructure improvements. Most work for city or state transportation departments, traffic consulting firms, or public works agencies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against traffic technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves conducting traffic counts at intersections using portable equipment, recording vehicle speeds and patterns, and photographing signal timing and road conditions. Technicians may spend several days in the field at different locations, then return to an office to organize data, complete reports, and prepare materials for the traffic engineer's review. Tasks alternate between outdoor observation work and indoor documentation.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on work with concrete tasks and clear procedures—the kind of role where you follow established methods and report factual results. You're comfortable with both fieldwork and office duties, pay attention to detail, and have an orderly approach to gathering and recording information.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $59,120 | $79,110 | $85,240 | 1,250 |
| Minnesota | $65,660 | $77,810 | $82,390 | 60 |
| Washington | $64,110 | $71,960 | $95,030 | 70 |
| New York | $52,190 | $71,670 | $83,770 | 950 |
| Indiana | $56,290 | $71,000 | $73,730 | 120 |
| Illinois | $51,810 | $70,970 | $88,190 | 40 |
| Iowa | $54,740 | $68,100 | $72,660 | 30 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,660 | $65,610 | $70,480 | 60 |
| New Jersey | $54,720 | $64,240 | $78,000 | 110 |
| Massachusetts | $45,220 | $63,780 | $89,840 | 90 |
| Virginia | $54,250 | $62,270 | $80,650 | 90 |
| Utah | $53,110 | $61,970 | $74,760 | 30 |
All 36 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Electronics in Traffic Signal Technician — International Municipal Signal Association
- Traffic Signal Technician Level I — International Municipal Signal Association
- Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control Technician — International Municipal Signal Association
- Traffic Signal Field Technician Level II — International Municipal Signal Association
- Traffic Signal Bench Technician Level II — International Municipal Signal Association
- Traffic Control Technician (TCT) — American Traffic Safety Services Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against traffic technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-6041.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.