According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Analyze data related to traffic flow, accident rates, or proposed development to determine the most efficient methods to expedite traffic flow. | 82% |
| Prepare work orders for repair, maintenance, or changes in traffic systems. | 82% |
| Plan, design, and improve components of traffic control systems to accommodate current or projected traffic and to increase usability and efficiency. | 81% |
| Compute time settings for traffic signals or speed restrictions, using standard formulas. | 80% |
| Prepare drawings of proposed signal installations or other control devices, using drafting instruments or computer-automated drafting equipment. | 79% |
| Study factors affecting traffic conditions, such as lighting or sign and marking visibility, to assess their effectiveness. | 79% |
| Gather and compile data from hand count sheets, machine count tapes, or radar speed checks and code data for computer input. | 79% |
| Lay out pavement markings for striping crews. | 78% |
| Measure and record the speed of vehicular traffic, using electrical timing devices or radar equipment. | 78% |
| Provide technical supervision regarding traffic control devices to other traffic technicians or laborers. | 78% |
| Operate counters and record data to assess the volume, type, and movement of vehicular or pedestrian traffic at specified times. | 77% |
| Place and secure automatic counters, using power tools, and retrieve counters after counting periods end. | 76% |
| Study traffic delays by noting times of delays, the numbers of vehicles affected, and vehicle speed through the delay area. | 76% |
| Review traffic control or barricade plans to issue permits for parades or other special events or for construction work that affects rights of way, providing assistance with plan preparation or revision, as necessary. | 76% |
| Time stoplights or other delays, using stopwatches. | 75% |
| Maintain or make minor adjustments or field repairs to equipment used in surveys, including the replacement of parts on traffic data gathering devices. | 75% |
| Visit development or work sites to determine projects' effect on traffic and the adequacy of traffic control and safety plans or to suggest traffic control measures. | 74% |
| Interact with the public to answer traffic-related questions, respond to complaints or requests, or discuss traffic control ordinances, plans, policies, or procedures. | 74% |
| Establish procedures for street closures or for repair or construction projects. | 74% |
| Prepare graphs, charts, diagrams, or other aids to illustrate observations or conclusions. | 69% |
| Provide traffic information, such as road conditions, to the public. | 69% |
| Monitor street or utility projects for compliance to traffic control permit conditions. | 64% |
| Develop plans or long-range strategies for providing adequate parking space. | 64% |
| Interview motorists about specific intersections or highways to gather road-condition information for use in planning. | 60% |
