Description
Install, program, maintain, and troubleshoot traffic signal systems and related devices; conduct field studies and implement timing plans to improve intersection operations; ensure compliance with safety standards and engineer directives.
- • Install, wire, and align signal heads, brackets, and poles at intersections.
- • Install, program, and test signal controllers, MMUs/CMUs, and cabinets.
- • Configure and implement timing, phases, splits, offsets, and coordination plans under engineer direction.
- • Troubleshoot and repair detection systems, including loops, video, radar, and magnetometers.
- • Saw-cut, place, and seal inductive loop detectors; mark detector limits and lead-ins.
- • Install, aim, and maintain pedestrian signals, countdowns, and APS pushbuttons to ADA standards.
- • Maintain and replace LED signal modules, backplates, visors, and lenses.
- • Maintain power supplies, service disconnects, and cabinet wiring; verify grounding and bonding.
- • Test and maintain UPS/battery backup systems and transfer switches for signals and flashers.
- • Install and maintain communications to signals (fiber, copper, Ethernet, cellular, radio) and NTCIP devices.
- • Deploy counters and collect turn-movement, volume, and occupancy data at signalized intersections.
- • Measure approach speeds, queues, and delays to validate and fine-tune timing plans.
- • Monitor signal performance and detection health via software; log faults and anomalies.
- • Respond to malfunctions, knockdowns, and outages; provide emergency repairs and temporary traffic control.
- • Set up work-zone traffic control for signal maintenance and construction per MUTCD.
- • Inspect contractor or utility work near signals for compliance and protection of equipment.
- • Prepare and update as-built drawings, cabinet schematics, and intersection inventories in CAD/CMMS.
- • Generate work orders and document maintenance, test results, and parts used.
- • Perform preventive maintenance, including cabinet cleaning, torque checks, and firmware updates.
- • Test conflict monitors, load switches, flash relays, and detector cards; replace failed components.
- • Install, program, and maintain school zone beacons and emergency preemption/TSP equipment.
- • Coordinate with traffic engineers, TMC operators, and law enforcement on timing changes and outages.
- • Review and implement signal control plans for special events and construction detours.
- • Ensure compliance with MUTCD, electrical codes, and agency standards; follow safety and lockout/tagout procedures.
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
