Traffic Technicians
Career Snapshot
There is much more to traffic than "stop" and "go." Traffic engineers perform a variety of complex tasks to keep motorists moving. They may determine the length of time a light remains red, count the number of trucks using a specific bridge, ensure a road crew is safe and well-marked, or analyse accident reports to determine if a highway interchange is too dangerous. These are just a few examples of the work that goes into improving traffic safety and flow.
Many traffic engineers work for government organisations. Engineering and mechanical skills, physical flexibility, good eyesight, patience, and attention to detail are all required for their job. They could spend hours at a desk poring over data or days counting cars out in the cold.
It's critical to understand that traffic management is a science before pursuing a career in it. Under the supervision of a traffic engineer, traffic technicians are trained on the job. A solid educational foundation, which includes mathematics and engineering, can put you "on the road" to success.