Traffic controllers are crucial in road construction and building sites as they help direct traffic to ensure the safety of both the people and the construction workers. There are certain intricacies to this job to ensure that it is done well, and this includes certain duties and responsibilities specific to the task. If you want to become a traffic controller, read on to learn more about the job.
Duties and Responsibilities of Traffic Controllers
Traffic controllers ensures that automobiles and pedestrians do not interfere with a particular project. If you are one, your duties include directing or diverting vehicle and pedestrian traffic to ensure the safety of the workers in the work zone and the safety of those passing through. Some of your responsibilities include putting temporary barriers or diverters like traffic cones to lead traffic in a particular direction. They are also in charge of stepping out into traffic to stop it while construction workers move around and use signs and hand signals to communicate the rules to drivers.
How to Become a Traffic Controller?
The minimum qualification for a career as a traffic controller is usually a high school diploma or GED. For some, though, a high school diploma or equivalent is not always a requisite. There are states and organizations that need these professionals to pass a certification exam for them to be cleared for work. There are some employers who prefer a prior experience that is work-related. The job of a traffic control technician includes installing cones, markers, and barricades, and directing traffic so the driver and pedestrian stay in and near work zones. Critical skills needed for this kind of profession include assertiveness, concentration, coordination, critical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills.
What Skills are Needed in Traffic Controllers?
To become a traffic controller, the crucial skills needed include assertiveness, strong attention to detail, and comfort with getting in the middle of moving traffic to direct it as needed. There are many traffic controllers who learn the job through a practical experience like construction workers, but these can also be learned through training courses and programs given by private companies, state departments of transportation and motor vehicles, and professional organizations. Educated qualifications for this kind of job can include a high school diploma, although this is not always a requisite.
Job Description of Traffic Controllers
Traffic controllers help direct pedestrians and cars around worksites. With this kind of position, their first responsibility is to set up physical obstacles like barrel containers or cones to impede traffic. Once the work starts, they will use stop signs and other related signals to direct cars. Good traffic controllers should have experience with construction or trucking. Strong physical stamina is a plus so they can stay on their feet during long shifts.
Some of their duties and responsibilities include checking to ensure that the worksite is safe, directing and slowing down traffic, setting up physical traffic barriers, and directing construction vehicles if they need to enter the roadway. Requirements and qualifications include attention to detail, tolerance to loud noises, strong physical stamina, and construction or trucking experience.
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