Traffic Signal Technician

Job Summary

DEFINITION

Maintains, programs, repairs, inspects, and replaces traffic control devices, including traffic signal controllers and pedestrian and vehicle indications. Inspects, monitors and repairs vehicle detector loops, fiber optic communications equipment, closed circuit television cameras and video detection equipment, warning light systems, battery backup systems and traffic signal controller cabinets, and other equipment as necessary.

SUPERVISION

Receives general supervision from the Traffic Signal Supervisor. Does not exercise supervision over staff.

Representative Duties

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

Maintains, repairs, inspects, replaces, and monitors a wide variety of traffic control devices.

Responds to emergency calls during off hours to repair and inspect malfunctioning traffic signals, lights, and other traffic control-related devices.

Checks for alignment, damage, and corrosion to signals and other equipment. Cleans traffic signal heads and associated equipment.

Installs and replaces field wires. Checks all terminals to ensure proper connections and tightness.

Checks wiring, connections, vehicle detectors, pedestrian pushbuttons, and associated traffic control equipment for proper operation. Inspects and tests conflict monitoring devices, load switches, relays, fiber optic communications equipment, battery backup systems, video detection equipment, and controllers in traffic control cabinets.

Configures traffic signal controllers in accordance with plans prepared by traffic engineering staff.

Inspects, maintains, and monitors vehicle detector loops placed in asphalt and concrete for wear and damage. Inspects work in progress of contractors who install and/or replace traffic signal equipment, including controllers, detectors, traffic signal indications, poles, foundations, service pedestals and communication equipment.

Installs, maintains, and monitors video detection systems, including setting detection zones.

Maintains and repairs in-roadway warning light systems.

Maintains, installs, and repairs vehicle speed feedback signs and other City sign systems.

Responds to a variety of emergency calls to repair and inspect malfunctioning traffic signals and other related traffic control devices.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND A BILITIES

Knowledge of:

Basic and advanced electronics, including microprocessors and solid-state components such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors

Principles of traffic signal operations and maintenance

Principles of electrical theory and practice

Principles of wireless communication and design

Closed-circuit television and video detection systems operation and maintenance

Modern traffic signal controller software, programming, and operations

Principles of fiber optic communication and design

State of California Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Standard Plans and Standard Specifications

National Electrical Code

Safe work practices

Principles of basic mathematics

Principles of customer service

Ability to:

Troubleshoot problems related to electrical systems and electronic traffic control devices

Read and interpret complex diagrams, charts, and blueprints

Use electrical and electronic equipment and tools, including meters and testing devices

Use hand and power tools

Operate hydraulic bucket truck over traffic and from various heights

Learn to program computerized traffic signal controllers for proper timing, offsets, coordination, and operation

Perform tasks requiring manual dexterity

Diagnose problems and provide solutions

Follow written and oral instructions

Provide effective customer service

Respond to inquiries from the public in a tactful manner

Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with other City employees and the general public

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

Use a personal computer and applicable software applications

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Graduation from high school or the equivalent. Coursework in computers, electronics, and electrical installation, maintenance, and repair is desirable.

Experience: One year s of recent, paid work experience performing electrical maintenance, repair , and installation duties . Experience in electronics and traffic signal maintenance is desirable. Municipal experience is desirable.

Licenses and Certificates:

Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License. Possession of a valid International Municipal Signal Association (I.M.S.A.) level I certification within 12 months from the date of hire . Possession of a valid International Municipal Signal Association (I.M.S.A.) level II certification is desirable.

Supplemental Information

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work is regularly performed outdoors and requires regular exposure to seasonal weather conditions. Moving objects, high voltages, vibrations, dust, dirt, chemicals, oily conditions, slippery surfaces and odors are frequently encountered. Physical demands include lifting, reaching, climbing and working in cramped positions. Emergency situations require the availability to be placed on 24-hour standby duty.

HOW TO APPLY: All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position. Please note , applications may be rejected if incomplete. Résumés, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted.

NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college diploma/transcript with your application. Applicants who indicated receipt of degree from a foreign institution must provide United States degree and credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcript. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date. Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified. You must upload and attach a scanned copy of your transcripts or diploma to your on-line application.

SELECTION PROCESS : All applicants must submit clear, concise and complete information regarding their qualifications for the position. All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of the following:

Oral Exam

NOTE: If three or more qualified City employees apply and pass the examination, a promotional list will be established in addition to an open-competitive list. If fewer than three qualified City employees pass the examination, the appointing authority, in accordance with the City's civil service rules and regulations, can decline to use a promotional list, in which case a promotional list will not be established for this position.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS :
Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation. The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a highly-talented workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact.

The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us!

Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only).

Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination.

The City's liberal fringe benefits for full-time employment include sick leave, holiday and vacation pay, the Public Employees Retirement System, medical, dental and vision insurance, credit union, deferred compensation, tuition reimbursement, Dependent Care Assistance Plan and priority enrollment consideration at Hill & Dale Family Learning Center, Marine Park Child Development Center, and Santa Monica Early Childhood Lab School.

Closing Date/Time: 4/2/2026 5:30 PM Pacific

Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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• City of Santa Monica

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