Traffic Signal Technician I/II

About the role

Under general supervision (Traffic Signal Technician I) or direction (Traffic Signal Technician II), performs skilled electrical and electronic work in the installation, maintenance, repair, and calibration of traffic signal systems, street lighting, and related equipment; diagnoses malfunctions in complex signal systems and associated electrical components; operates computerized systems related to traffic signal programming and control; and performs related work as required.

Distinguishing characteristics

Traffic Signal Technician I: This is the entry-level class in the Traffic Signal Technician series. Positions in this class typically have less experience and are not expected to perform with the same level of independence or technical expertise as the Traffic Signal Technician II. Incumbents work under closer supervision and are expected to develop a working knowledge of all duties assigned. This level is distinguished by a focus on assisting with installations, routine maintenance, and gaining experience in troubleshooting and diagnostics. Advancement to Traffic Signal Technician II is based on demonstrated proficiency and successful acquisition of required certifications.

Traffic Signal Technician II: This is the full journey-level class in the Traffic Signal Technician series. Employees at this level perform the full range of duties independently and are expected to demonstrate technical knowledge of complex electrical systems, advanced troubleshooting skills, and familiarity with relevant codes and regulations. They may provide training or guidance to lower-level staff and are responsible for high-level repairs, diagnostics, and calibrations.

Key responsibilities

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Performs skilled electrical and electronic installation, repair, service, and maintenance work on traffic signal control systems, street lighting systems, and related electronic/electrical equipment.
• Responds to requests and performs skilled electrical and electronic repairs, servicing, installation, inspection, troubleshooting, and maintenance on traffic signal systems, street lighting, and related control equipment; responds to emergency calls for service involving signal malfunctions, outages, or hazardous conditions.
• Inspects, repairs, installs, services, and maintains electrical systems including conduit systems, lighting and power circuits, transformers, control equipment, switches, clocks, and related electrical devices.
• Diagnoses malfunctions including traffic sensing mechanisms, circuits, controllers, switches, relays, fuses, battery back-up systems, loop and video detection systems, power supplies, electronic controls and other electronic apparatus.
• Operates computer systems associated with programming and operating traffic signals and interconnect systems.
• Performs predictive, preventative, and corrective maintenance on equipment.
• Inspects newly installed electrical equipment and lighting to ensure safe and satisfactory functioning.
• Operates and maintains a variety of hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, trucks, and other equipment in the performance of assigned duties.
• Prepares and maintains a variety of written records and reports; reads and interprets electrical and mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Meets and works with contractors regarding electrical issues as necessary; responds to questions and inquires.
• Observes and complies with federal, state, and local electrical codes.
• Responds to electrical calls and emergencies as necessary.
• Provides direction and training to lower-level staff.
• Performs related duties as required.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Operational characteristics of electrical systems and internal components.
• Principles, practices, techniques, tools, and materials used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical or electronic systems and equipment.
• Principles of electrical theory as applied to electrical circuits and wiring systems.
• Operating characteristics and application of electrical test equipment.
• Methods and techniques of troubleshooting and calibrating electric and electronic systems and components.
• Preventive and corrective maintenance techniques.
• Use and maintenance of a variety of power and hand tools.
• Precautions necessary for working with electricity.
• Blueprint and symbol identification.
• Basic principles of mathematics.
• Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers.
• Principles of business letter writing and basic report preparation.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
• Pertinent federal, state and local codes, laws and regulations including Electrical Safety Orders of the Division of Industrial Safety, California Electrical Code, the National Electric Code, and Cal/OSHA safety rules, regulations, and other safe work practices.

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of installation, repair, and maintenance duties on electrical equipment and systems.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair electrical and electronic malfunctions.
• Operate a variety of electrical testing, maintenance, repair, and installation equipment in a safe and effective manner.
• Use electrical test equipment.
• Operate hand and power tools competently and safely.
• Handle a variety of tasks with minimum supervision.
• Maintain required work logs, records, and related operational and maintenance data.
• Prepare clear and concise written reports.
• Perform accurate mathematical calculations.
• Read, interpret, and work from blueprints, electrical diagrams and schematics, manufacturer instructions, and directions.
• Perform assigned work in accordance with appropriate safety practices and regulations.
• Operate office equipment including computers.
• Demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and experience

Education/Training Minimum Requirements: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by specialized training in the electrical trade. Training in a formal apprentice program is desirable.

Traffic Signal Technician I: Three (3) years of experience in the installation, maintenance, or repair of traffic signal systems, electrical systems, or related electronic equipment.

Traffic Signal Technician II: Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in traffic signal maintenance and repair, including experience with traffic signal timing, detection, and advanced diagnostics.

Licenses and certifications

Traffic Signal Technician I: Possession of a valid Class C driver's license.

Traffic Signal Technician II: Possession of the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Traffic Signal Technician Level I certification is required. Possession of a valid Class C drivers license.

Pay

Traffic Signal Technician I: $6,173 - $8,273/monthly

Traffic Signal Technician II: $6,648 - $8,909/monthly