Road Traffic Controllers

Road Traffic Controllers manually direct road traffic and pedestrian flows on, near, or adjacent to roads during road closures or part road closures due to construction, maintenance or roadside works; public events; or emergency responses using signs and devices to ensure the safety of workers, motorists and pedestrians.

  • The Job
  • The Facts
  • Related Courses

What the job involves

  • Sets up, manages and removes temporary traffic control schemes/signs
  • Directs vehicular and pedestrian traffic around construction zones, accidents or other road disruptions; ensuring the safety of emergency response teams, construction workers and the general public
  • Handles a Stop-Slow sign, or manages other similar traffic control signs and devices, to direct traffic
  • Communicates with other road traffic personnel, construction workers and emergency response teams via radio, to provide and receive updates on traffic conditions
  • Completes site checks and monitors traffic behaviour and/or flow to ensure safety is maintained at all times
  • Takes instructions from crew leaders, foremen, managers, inspectors, auditors or officials

Key values of workers in Road Traffic Controllers

  • Support

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

Top skills required for workers in Road Traffic Controllers

  • Social Perceptiveness

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Coordination

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.