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Entry Level Traffic Control Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL

... traffic control devices and all related facilities. Employees in this class are subject to 24-hour call outs. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is an entry level class within the Water & Sewer ...

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All JobsTraffic Control JobsEntry Level Traffic Control JobsEntry Level Traffic Control Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Traffic Control information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$95.2K

$187.5K

How much do entry level traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level traffic control in Chicago, IL is $95,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $122,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Traffic Control professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Traffic Control professional, you need a basic understanding of traffic safety rules, strong situational awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with standard safety gear, two-way radios, and, in many regions, a valid traffic control certification or flagger card is required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and reliability are essential soft skills for ensuring clear instructions and maintaining safety on site. These qualifications and skills are crucial for preventing accidents, ensuring smooth traffic flow, and protecting both workers and the public in construction or event settings.

Is 33 too old to become an air traffic controller?

Entry level traffic control jobs typically require candidates to be at least 18 years old and meet specific training and certification requirements. Age is generally not a barrier as long as the applicant can pass the necessary background checks, medical exams, and training programs. Being physically fit and able to handle high-pressure environments are important for success in this field.

What are entry-level traffic control jobs?

Entry-level traffic control jobs involve managing and directing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians around construction sites, roadwork, or other events that impact normal traffic patterns. Workers in these positions, often called flaggers or traffic control technicians, set up signs, cones, and barriers, and use hand signals or flags to keep traffic moving safely. These roles require attention to safety procedures, the ability to stand for long periods, and good communication skills. Most employers provide on-the-job training, but some states require certification. Entry-level positions are a good starting point for those interested in construction or public safety careers.

Can you be an air traffic controller with no experience?

Entry level traffic control jobs typically require some training and certification, such as completing a traffic control training program and obtaining necessary permits. Prior experience is not always required, but strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are important. On-the-job training is often provided for new employees.

What is the difference between Entry Level Traffic Control vs Traffic Control Supervisor?

AspectEntry Level Traffic ControlTraffic Control Supervisor
CertificationsOSHA, Flagging CertificationOSHA, Flagging Certification, Supervisory Certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roadwaysConstruction sites, roadways, site management
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up traffic control devices, flagging, ensuring safetyOversee traffic control crews, plan traffic management, enforce safety protocols

Entry Level Traffic Control roles focus on setting up and managing traffic control devices, primarily performing flagging duties. Traffic Control Supervisors oversee these operations, manage teams, and ensure safety compliance. While both roles require similar certifications, supervisors have additional responsibilities and often more experience. The roles are part of the same industry and environment, with the main difference being the level of responsibility and supervision.

How much do entry level traffic controllers make?

Entry-level traffic control workers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and certifications such as flagging or traffic control training. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $25,000 to $40,000. These roles often require working outdoors, sometimes during night shifts or in adverse weather conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level traffic control professionals on the job?

Entry-level traffic control professionals often face challenges such as adapting to working outdoors in all weather conditions, maintaining focus in high-traffic or noisy environments, and ensuring clear communication with team members and motorists. The role requires constant vigilance to ensure safety for both workers and the public. Additionally, learning to quickly set up and adjust traffic control devices according to changing worksite needs is an important skill to develop early in your career.

What are the requirements to be a traffic controller?

To become an entry-level traffic control worker, candidates typically need to be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete a traffic control training course. Certification in traffic control safety and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are also important. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to operate traffic control equipment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Traffic Control jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Traffic Control jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Entry Level Traffic Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Traffic Control job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,245 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Highway Maintenance Worker

State of Indiana

Chesterton, IN • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana Department of Transportation: 
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state’s quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.

Role Overview:
As a Highway Technician you will work on Indiana highways and interstates performing general maintenance to keep the roads clean and safe. Duties will include picking up trash and other debris, filling potholes, maintaining drainage systems, plowing snow during the winter, assisting with traffic control, especially during emergency road closures. This is an entry level position with opportunities for career advancement. Position requires mandatory overtime for emergency operations, including winter.

Location:
This position is with INDOT's Chesterton Unit.

Pay Rate:
This position traditionally starts at an hourly rate of $20.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

CDL Positions:
Candidates with a current CDL and endorsements required by the district will earn an additional $1 per hour.  Candidates without a CDL will be given 90 days to obtain their CDL and endorsements required by the district and will then earn an additional $1 per hour.  CDL training provided onsite by certified INDOT staff.

A Day in the Life:

The essential elements of the job duties: 

  • Comply with all Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) safety policies and procedures. 
  • Operate basic highway maintenance/ traffic equipment to maintain, repair and clean highways and rights-of-way. 
  • Move and load supplies and materials. 
  • Perform winter operations duties including snow and ice removal. 
  • Perform emergency response activities such as clean-up, traffic control, lane closures, placement of signs and erecting barricades. 
  • Perform regular inspections and routine equipment maintenance such as: minor repairs, preventative maintenance, refueling, and pre-trip inspections. 
  • Perform miscellaneous labor tasks. 

These additional duties may be performed depending on the job assignment: 

Traffic Inventory Specialist:

  • Maintain, repair, and install traffic signs, route markers and pavement markings. 
  • Receive, inspect, and record new materials, supplies, and equipment arriving in District Traffic for distribution (e.g., signs and sign hardware, lighting poles, arms, and luminaries). 
  • Maintain perpetual inventory of supplies and dispense the required materials. (e.g., traffic signal equipment, signs and sign hardware). 
  • Operate and maintain new computerized inventory control system. 
  • Workday attendance at assigned worksite(s) is an essential function of this position.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time. 

What You'll Need for Success:

Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:

  • Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or obtain one with the first 90 days of employment.
  • Pass and submit to a drug test as a condition of employment. 
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds. 
  • Ability to perform physical activities such as lifting, dragging, stooping, standing, and walking for long periods of time. 
  • Must be able to endure exposure to inclement weather. 
  • Ability to operate specialty traffic equipment (e.g. bucket trucks, paint equipment, etc.) 
  • Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team. 

These additional requirements may be required depending on the job assignment: 

  • Knowledge of electronic data processing as applied to inventory control computer systems. 
  • Ability to understand system of bookkeeping procedures.

A degree is not required.

Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.

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