Traffic Signal Technician (Grade 11)

Under general supervision, performs technical work of moderate difficulty in the maintenance and repair of traffic signal systems and highway lighting units; this position has department specific responsibility; employees in safety-sensitive positions are subject to DOT alcohol/drug testing on a random basis or for reasonable suspicion.

(Illustrative Only) Responds to malfunctioning traffic signals, troubleshoots and repairs the malfunctions by replacing electronic components such as controllers, conflict monitors, and load switches; repairs faulty/damaged wiring and ensuring the signal is operating at optimal efficiency and safety; patrols designated areas of the county and checks signals for proper operation and timing; performs scheduled maintenance on signal installations, verifying proper operation of all components in the intersection and re-lamp signal heads; works with the traffic control team in the erection and repair of signals; electronically locates underground wiring for contractors and coordinates signal issues with the contractors and project inspectors; assists in the monitoring of the signal system operation; sets traffic counters to obtain traffic volumes, speeds and vehicle classifications; use computer software to obtain data; assists traffic control staff with the fabrication and installation of traffic control signs; completes and analyzes daily maintenance and trouble reports for possible malfunction trends; performs emergency repairs and maintenance on a 24 hour call out rotation; regular and reliable attendance is required; performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of: County policies and procedures; laws and regulations contained in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices; methods, procedures, materials, equipment and tools used for fabrication, installation, maintenance, and repair of traffic control signs and related regulatory and warning devices; project management methods and procedures; occupational hazards, safety rules, OSHA regulations, First Aid and CPR; signal timing, coordination, phasing, clearance intervals, and detector operation; video detection systems, radar detection systems, battery backup systems, communication equipment, and modern ATC signal cabinets; ethernet, wireless, and communication systems used in traffic signal operations; Arizona 811 requirements and underground utility locating procedures. 

Skill in: Reading and understanding road construction blue prints; establishing and maintaining a safe work zone and flagging operation; operating personal computer systems and applications to include data entry, file management, and graphic design; creating and maintaining accurate and up-to-date chronological records; establishing effective working relationships with other employees, agencies and contractors; following written and verbal instructions; communicating effectively verbally and in writing; reading and interpreting wiring diagrams, cabinet schematics, signal timing sheets, and communication plans; using laptop computers and manufacturer software to program, diagnose, and download data from signal controllers, cabinets, and detection systems; in asset management systems to document inspections, repairs, work orders, inventory, and signal equipment history; troubleshooting and repairing communication wiring, fiber optic cable, ethernet networks, wireless communication systems, and junction boxes. 

Ability to: Use testing equipment to identify defects in such equipment and apparatus; use standard tools, equipment and testing devices used in electrical, electronic and digital repair work; interpret and work from technical sketches and blueprints; act as a crew leader when called upon to do so; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; train and monitor other personnel in the operation and troubleshooting of traffic signals. work after hours and on weekends on emergency repairs; perform the essential functions of the job specifications with or without a reasonable accommodation; diagnose and repair complex communication, detection, and software-related traffic signal malfunctions; perform field timing adjustments and verify signal phasing, coordination, clearance intervals, and detector operation; coordinate with utility companies, Arizona 811, and other agencies regarding underground utility locates, signal construction, and repair work; respond to emergency callouts for power outages, flash conditions, storm damage, damaged communication systems, and signal knockdowns; install and maintain pedestrian push buttons, countdown pedestrian heads, RRFBs, school flashers, and HAWK systems. 

Work Environment:
The usual and customary methods of performing the job’s functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; generally, the job requires 30% bending, 20% walking, 20% stooping and 30% standing; the job is performed under varying extreme weather conditions and exposed to exhaust and chemical fumes, oil and hazardous materials; work is subject to exposure to varying weather conditions, and exposure to exhaust and chemical fumes, oil, grease and hazardous materials; also involves lifting of 25 - 50 pounds; the technician is expected to climb ladders up to 12 feet, climb into and out of an aerial lift basket, drive distances up to 50 miles, walk up to 500 feet at a time to inspect detection conduit and mark underground utilities, get up and down from ground level to access wiring in junction boxes, and stand for up to 30 minutes while observing signal cabinet operation and repairing traffic signal equipment.