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Construction Traffic Controller Jobs in California

Yunex Traffic

Warehouse Driver

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

While Yunex is a well-established player in the traffic controller, traffic management and traffic ... If you have a background with electrical work or road construction, we'd love to have you apply ...

Yunex Traffic

Warehouse Driver

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

While Yunex is a well-established player in the traffic controller, traffic management and traffic ... If you have a background with electrical work or road construction, we'd love to have you apply ...

SOLID Personnel

Traffic Flagger

Chester, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

... construction zones on commercial, roadway, utility, and telecom projects. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a safe work environment by controlling vehicle and pedestrian traffic in ...

SOLID Personnel

Traffic Flagger

Chester, CA

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

... construction zones on commercial, roadway, utility, and telecom projects. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a safe work environment by controlling vehicle and pedestrian traffic in ...

KASA Construction Inc.

Landscape Laborer

Chino, CA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Our company specializes in public works construction for state and local agencies, performing civil ... Traffic Control and Site Preparation : * Performing minor traffic control work as it relates to ...

ENGICON CM

Electrical Inspector

Alhambra, CA · On-site

... sewer, water, traffic signal, or airport improvement construction projects or in support of ... controller cabinets and traffic signal detector loops, major electrical services and gear such as ...

Electrical Contractor

Be Seen First

Electrical Foreman

Livermore, CA · On-site

Install traffic signal poles, mast arms, signal heads, cabinets, controllers, conduit, wiring ... Operate bucket trucks, aerial lifts, and specialized construction equipment. * Establish safe work ...

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Construction Traffic Controller information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$40

How much do construction traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction traffic controller in California is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a construction traffic controller?

Construction Traffic Controllers are professionals responsible for managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians around construction sites to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. They use signs, signals, and barriers to direct traffic and communicate with drivers and construction workers. Their role is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining order in areas where construction activities intersect with public roads or pathways. Traffic Controllers are often required to wear high-visibility clothing and may work in various weather conditions. Training and certification are typically required, depending on local regulations.

What does a construction traffic controller do?

As a construction traffic controller, you direct the flow of vehicles to help motorists avoid road work. Your responsibilities involve protecting drivers, pedestrians, and laborers by using flags to signal potential hazards. You use barricades, flags, traffic cones, signs, and hand signals to reroute cars and enforce applicable safety regulations and speed limits. As a construction traffic controller, your duties involve standing in a work zone on a road or highway and managing a steady flow of cars and trucks, sometimes during inclement weather. You need physical stamina as well as the ability to focus for an extended period.

What are some common challenges faced by construction traffic controllers on busy job sites?

Construction Traffic Controllers often work in fast-paced, high-traffic environments where maintaining safety is critical. One of the main challenges is effectively communicating with both construction crews and the public to prevent accidents and minimize confusion. Unexpected changes in traffic flow, weather conditions, and the need to adapt quickly to new site layouts also require strong situational awareness and problem-solving skills. Building good teamwork with fellow controllers and site supervisors is essential to ensure smooth operations and compliance with safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction traffic controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Traffic Controller, you need a solid understanding of road safety regulations, hazard identification, and typically a valid traffic control certification. Familiarity with two-way radios, signage systems, and traffic management plans is essential. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure both the safety of workers and the public, as well as the smooth flow of traffic around construction sites.

What is the difference between Construction Traffic Controller vs Construction Flagger?

AspectConstruction Traffic ControllerConstruction Flagger
CertificationsRequired (e.g., traffic control certification)Typically required (e.g., flagging certification)
Work EnvironmentOn-site, directing traffic around construction zonesOn-site, primarily flagging vehicles and pedestrians
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, roadworks, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, road maintenance, utility work
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Construction Traffic Controller and a Construction Flagger is that the Traffic Controller oversees overall traffic management and may coordinate multiple flaggers, while the Flagger primarily focuses on signaling vehicles and pedestrians. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential for safety in construction zones, but Traffic Controllers often have broader responsibilities.

More about Construction Traffic Controller jobs

What are popular job titles related to Construction Traffic Controller jobs in California?

For Construction Traffic Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Traffic Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Traffic Controller jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Construction Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities in California with the most Construction Traffic Controller job openings:

Construction Traffic Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Traffic Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,171 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Traffic Controller - Oakland

Oakland, CA • On-site

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT, LLC
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT, LLCexternal

$17.34 - $36.21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
The Traffic controller will be responsible for placing, maintaining, and removing traffic control operationsper the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

Essential Duties

  • Respond to Dispatch Center calls in a timely manner for availability - no later than 1 hour if between the hours and 8am and 5pm and no later than the next day if after 5pm.
  • Maintain contact and coordination with TMI Dispatcher on and off the job
  • Maintain all equipment in a safe and working condition
  • Perform pre-job inspection and inventory utilizing the Vehicle and Equipment Checklist (VEC)
    • Inspect vehicle to ensure safe operation prior to operating (oil, tire air pressure,etc.) and report any concerns to your supervisor or the dispatcher
    • Inventory and inspect equipment needed for job
    • Load all required equipment into vehicle
  • Navigate safely to and from office to jobsite utilizing all aspect of the Smith Driving System toensure safety
  • Setting up devices: cones, signs, barricades, water-filled k-rail, etc. on job site per MUTCDguidelines
  • Flagging of traffic to ensure safe work zone for TMI customers, TMI employees, and the public
  • Coordinating with customer and/or TMI dispatcher ensuring a safe, efficient and problem free service provided to TMI customers
  • Completing required paperwork, receipts, and time-sheets on or before mandatory deadlines
  • Report any and all unsafe conditions to supervisor as soon as possible
  • Ensure a safe work zone at all times for the customer and pedestrians by being attentive andrefraining from being in the vehicle unless on a break

Equipment Operated

  • Vehicles (Trucks/Cars) of various sizes
  • Flatbed trucks
  • Trailer mounted warning signs
  • Cones, delineators, drums, barricades, signs and various other traffic control devices
  • Trailer

Essential Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Requires standing for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to perform full deep squat
  • Full range of motion of arms and legs
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 50lb from floor to chest level carrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 25lb from floor to shoulder level carrying horizontally for25ft
  • Requires using hands to handle, control or lift objects with a strong grip
  • Requires the ability to raise the arms over the shoulders to life and place objects of up to 50lbscarrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires stepping at least 33 inches onto tailgate of a truck
  • Requires being outside and exposed to environmental conditions
  • Requires being in construction environment
  • Requires repetitive movement
  • Requires bending at the elbows, at the knees, at the hip and bending forward
  • Exposure to work near moving mechanical parts, heavy equipment and moving vehicular traffic
  • Exposure to reasonable noise levels
  • Must be able to fulfill essential job function in a consistent state of alertness and safe manner
  • Ability to drive a vehicle in an alert and attentive manner with no conditions that may affect this

Basic Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • MUTCD knowledge
  • Ability to effectively communicate in English (written and verbal) with customers, TMI employeesand the public
  • Proficient in traffic control setup regulations
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to work well with others in a team environment
  • Maintain a positive work environment

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma (or equivalent)
  • Must have valid driver's license with clean driving record (must be insurable throughcompany insurance policy)
  • Preferred candidate must have:70% or better on pre-employment testing

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