Traffic Systems Administrator

Job Summary

The Traffic Systems Administrator performs complex electrical and technical assessments involved in the maintenance, repair and safe uninterrupted operation of electrical and/or ITS systems in traffic signals, traffic management systems (TMS and ATMS), and intersection and roadway lighting. Leads work crews and/or directs contractors in the repair and/or construction of electrical and ITS equipment and systems, and reviews their work for quality and code compliance. Coordinates activities between departments and with outside agencies as needed.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Maintains County owned electrical/ITS equipment to assure the safe and uninterrupted operation of all county TMS and ATMS systems. Serves as the key technical expert providing leadership in the development, design, implementation, maintenance, and modernization of the TMS and ATMS.
• Performs signal timing/optimization as conditions change at signalized intersections in compliance with state law and in coordination with appropriate city, county, and state agencies. Accesses and utilizes traffic data from automated collection systems located in the field.
• Responds to and addresses/repairs traffic signal, TMS, and ATMS malfunctions that include traffic signal components/controllers), dynamic message boards, signal cameras, accessible pedestrian signals, nonintrusive detection devices, Ethernet switches, video encoders, and fiber optic and wireless devices. Conducts preventative and corrective maintenance during normal business hours and under emergency conditions; troubleshoots to isolate problems to specific hardware or software system components.
• Maintains signal, TMS, and ATMS hardware inventory and asset management databases including determining asset life and preparing and managing operating budgets for equipment replacement cycles. Recommends capital improvements that implement emerging signal and communications technologies to optimize established traffic management systems.
• Performs and oversees the work of others doing licensed electrical/ITS work for county signal systems including: source of power cabinet replacement, signal cabinet installation, repair and replacement, pulling new underground cables and other electrical work associated with signal operations as required by the Public Works traffic signal plan; troubleshoots and/or maintains systems as required.
• Ensures the necessary electrical permits are obtained for projects as required by the governing electrical authority.
• Leads and provides general work direction and oversight of crews performing electrical work; acts as crew chief coordinating work as required.
• Performs lead construction inspection functions of traffic signal and system projects including approval of underground electrical component placements and procedures.
• Directs the review and diagnosis of operational problems or complaints and repairs or directs the repairs of such problems as required.
• Ensures OSHA/NEC compliance with proper warnings on all electrical equipment.
• Works the days and hours assigned and begins and ends work on time.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Requires equivalency of an associate's degree in Civil Engineering, Traffic Engineering, or a closely related field and five years of experience working with fiber optic communications and associated electronics, including traffic signal systems maintenance and operations. Considerable ability to read and interpret electrical plans and diagrams and extensive knowledge of MN electrical codes are essential. One must obtain a valid MN Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with air-brake endorsement within 6 months of hire.  A pre-employment DOT drug test (in accordance with Part 382) is required. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

MnDOT Signal and Lighting certification and/or IMSA Level 1 or 2 Traffic Signal Technician certification are preferred. Master Electrician license is preferred. Experience and/or training in driving/operating an aerial truck is highly desired.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general guidance and direction from the Highway Traffic Engineer. The employee has wide latitude for independent judgment, initiative, and discretion consistent with county policy and state requirements. Work is reviewed through regular conferences, written reports, and objectives achieved.

COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge of OSHA, NEC, and state of MN electrical codes and regulations.

Knowledge of safe work practices when dealing w/high voltage electricity.

Knowledge of a variety of electrical systems related to traffic signals.

Abilities – Ability to read and interpret electrical plans and diagrams.

Ability to lay-out, plan, install and/or supervise others in the installation of wiring, apparatus, or equipment related to traffic signals and systems.

Ability to diagnose and fix electrical problems and failures.

Ability to collaborate w/a variety of construction professionals to complete projects that require electrical expertise.

Ability to climb ladders and access awkward spaces to perform the essential duties of the position.

Ability to operate various types of equipment for diagnosing and fixing electrical problems; some use of excavating and trenching equipment may be required.

Ability to work at heights, workspaces, and in highway traffic areas.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires 40 hours of physically intensive work in the field. The position includes on-call work to address special circumstances, situations, and business needs. The work environment includes regular exposure to hazards, including: high voltage, heights, and working around moving traffic and equipment.

Physical activities include light to medium work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, climbing, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 75 pounds on a routine basis in handling equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.