Entry Level Control Room Operator Jobs in Virginia

Traffic Operations Center Computer Operator Job Description

Metaforá Consulting, Inc. is seeking an entry-level, full-time Control Room Traffic Monitoring Operator (TOC Operator) for the Colonial Heights area, with an anticipated start date of August/September 2026. This position is based onsite within the client’s Traffic Operations Center and involves operating a workstation during an 8-hour shift using multiple software applications that support traffic operations. Training will be provided.

The TOC Operator will report directly to the TOC Shift Supervisor and Project Management Team and will maintain regular communication with floor staff throughout each shift. This is a non-exempt position, with overtime compensated at time-and-a-half in accordance with applicable laws. The starting pay rate is $19.00 per hour (non-negotiable). Paid on-the-job training will be provided at the starting rate of $19.00 per hour. Upon successful certification as a TOC Operator, the hourly rate will increase to $20.00 per hour.

The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Utilization of various Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) equipment, such as Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), Dynamic Message Signs (DMS), and Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) systems
• Real-time assessment of all incoming traffic data and prioritization of content and traffic reporting needs
• Dispatch of maintenance and SSP personnel
• Multi-agency and public communications via various channels
• Verification and monitoring of unplanned incidents, construction, special events and any other issue impacting traffic flow and/or motorist safety
• Completion of operational checklists as applicable
• Review and posting traveler information via DMS and/or media outlets
• Adherence to training protocols and obtain and maintain up to date certifications as per policy
• Provide real-time status of on-going control room activities
• Maintain work orders for ITS equipment and log status updates
• Attend training and staffing meetings as requested
• Other ad-hoc initiatives as assigned by the Project Management Team
• Works under direct supervision performing routine and repetitive duties
• Monitor the roadways, including detecting, confirming, updating, and responding to scheduled and unscheduled traffic events and congestion with ITS devices
• Act like an emergency dispatcher within a call center environment dispatching Safety Service Patrol via a two-way radio system to assist motorists, respond to events and other activities that require timely and efficient responses
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Be a minimum of 18 years of age
• Good interpersonal skills
• Proficient at typing
• Strong, accurate data entry skills and grammar
• Ability to communicate clearly both in writing and verbally
• Ability to adhere to a strict attendance and on-time policy
• Basic skill proficiency in the use of Windows based applications including Outlook, Internet Explorer, Word, and Excel
• Ability to work in a team environment under stressful conditions
• Must be able to work in a Control Room work environment
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment requiring high level of multi-tasking
• Ability to synthesize information from multiple, diverse, and simultaneous inputs
• Ability to work calmly and accurately under intense pressure
• Ability to work alternate work schedules and on-call duties at a 24/7/365 operation center; Schedules are dictated by need of operation and stated in advance. Schedules may vary.
• Must pass a State and Federal criminal history/security background check; must also successfully complete Virginia Department of Transportation fingerprint -based criminal History Records Check (CHRC)
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and successfully participate in the program’s mandatory random drug screening process
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time monitoring Intelligent Transportation Systems such CCTV camera displays, meters, law enforcement radio broadcasts, answering/responding to calls and communicating to other staff or partner agencies
• Constantly operate a computer and other monitoring and communication equipment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of two-way communication systems; radio and telecommunications experience
• Geographic familiarity with regional freeway systems and arterial roads
• TOC operator certifications for levels 1 and 2 preferred
• Knowledge of incident management response techniques and municipality and area traffic management organizations
• Emergency Operations Center knowledge and/or experience

Additional Information:

• This job includes on-the-job training developed to certify staff for the TOC Operator role. At the end of training, you will take a certification exam. Every TOC Operator is required to pass a certification exam initially and every twelve months with a minimum score of 90% and approval from their team Regional Manager.
• Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
• Relocation Benefits are not available for this position.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

With infrastructure investment accelerating worldwide, our services are in great demand, and there’s never been a better time to be in the transportation field! Metaforá provides a benefits program to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families.

Metaforá provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.