Job Description

SIGNAL SYSTEMS SPECIALIST I

JOB CODE 21000

Effective Date:	12/92X

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The fundamental reason this classification exists is to perform specialized and moderately complex work in such technical duties as signal timing and coordination, traffic engineering studies, computerized traffic signal programming and control, and gathering data for conversion to a usable format. Work involves the application of precise traffic engineering knowledge, gained through training or experience, to a variety of traffic engineering problems in the field or office. Work is performed under the direction of a Traffic Engineering Supervisor who assigns and checks for compliance with standards and schedules. Supervision is exercised over Traffic Engineering Technicians.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Participates in the inspection of construction projects involving new traffic signal installation and the remodeling of existing signals;
• Makes recommendations as to unplanned equipment relocation due to field conflicts with existing utilities;
• Conducts and analyzes traffic engineering studies and assists in preparing the signal timing and coordination at new and existing locations and reviews their results after implementation;
• Reviews need for new signals or upgrading of existing systems;
• Makes estimates of construction and material costs for proposed traffic signals and for the remodeling or upgrading of existing traffic signals;
• Plans and designs new traffic signals;
• Serves as a liaison between agencies involved in the construction of traffic signals;
• Programs and operates the City of Phoenix Computerized Traffic Signal Control System;
• Handles complaints and inquiries from the public on any phase of traffic signal operations such as placement, warrants, or timings;
• Writes traffic engineering specifications and reports;
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Basic computer programming and computerized traffic signal system operation.
• The operation and timing sequences of the many types of traffic control devices and systems available.
• Traffic engineering and signal construction procedures.
• The numerous types of traffic studies that can be conducted to help solve traffic problems.

Ability to:

• Perform a broad range of supervisory responsibilities over others.
• Make independent investigations of traffic engineering problems.
• Communicate orally in the English language with customers, clients, and the public using a telephone or in a one-to-one or group setting.
• Determine adherence to traffic engineering specifications on construction jobs, and to work effectively with contractors and construction supervisors in securing compliance with specifications.
• Enter data or information into a terminal, PC, or other keyboard device.
• Express complex technical matters related to traffic engineering right-of-way problems in terms that are meaningful to nonprofessional people.
• Estimate labor or material costs from blueprints or work plans.
• Use graphic instructions such as blueprints, schematic drawings, layouts, or other visual aids.
• Observe or monitor people's behavior and objects to determine compliance with prescribed operating and safety standards.
• Work cooperatively with the general public.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others.

Additional Requirements:

• Some positions require the use of personal or City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver's license and have an acceptable driving record. Use of a personal vehicle for City business will be prohibited if the employee is not authorized to drive a City vehicle or if the employee does not have personal insurance coverage.
• Some positions will require the performance of other essential or marginal functions depending upon work assignment, location, or shift.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
Three years experience in paraprofessional engineering work, including one year of traffic engineering work, supplemented by college level courses in traffic engineering, basic computer programming and systems analysis, or a related field. Other combinations of experience and education which meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.