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Traffic Control Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Santa Cruz, CA

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Salinas, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Monterey, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Monterey, CA

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Salinas, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Monterey, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Monterey, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

VSS International, Inc.

$18 - $30/hr

Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements. * Load, unload, carry, place ...

Zaddy Solutions

Traffic Control Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

Communicate with contractors, customers, agency representatives, inspectors, and field personnel regarding project-specific traffic control requirements. * Coordinate with Superintendents and Project ...

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Traffic Control Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do traffic control inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for traffic control inspector in California is $19.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a traffic control inspector do?

A Traffic Control Inspector is responsible for monitoring and enforcing traffic control plans at construction sites, roadways, and public events to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vehicles and pedestrians. They inspect signage, barriers, and flagging operations to confirm compliance with safety regulations and local laws. Their duties often include reviewing permit applications, conducting site visits, and documenting violations or hazards. By ensuring proper traffic management, they help prevent accidents and minimize disruptions to the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a traffic control inspector?

To thrive as a Traffic Control Inspector, you need a solid understanding of traffic regulations, roadway safety standards, and inspection procedures, often supported by a relevant certification or experience in transportation or construction. Familiarity with traffic management software, inspection reporting tools, and GIS systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensuring public safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient traffic flow during roadway projects.

What are some common challenges faced by traffic control inspectors, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Traffic Control Inspectors often face challenges such as ensuring compliance with safety regulations at busy or complex construction sites, adapting quickly to changing traffic patterns, and communicating effectively with multiple stakeholders, including contractors and law enforcement. These challenges are typically addressed through regular training, on-site safety meetings, and the use of clear, standardized procedures for inspections and reporting. Inspectors also rely on strong observational skills and up-to-date knowledge of local traffic laws to navigate these challenges and maintain public safety.

What is the difference between Traffic Control Inspector vs Flagger?

AspectTraffic Control InspectorFlagger
CertificationsTypically requires traffic control or safety certificationsRequires flagging and safety training certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees traffic control setups, inspects sites, enforces safety standardsDirectly manages traffic at work zones, uses flags/signs to direct vehicles
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by construction, transportation, or public works agenciesEmployed mainly by contractors or construction companies

While both roles focus on traffic safety, Traffic Control Inspectors oversee and enforce safety standards, whereas Flaggers directly control traffic flow at work zones. The roles often overlap but differ in responsibilities and scope.

Do traffic control inspectors get paid weekly?

Traffic control inspectors are typically paid on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on the employer and location. Payment schedules can vary, but weekly pay is common in many construction and public safety roles. Employees often receive wages through direct deposit or check, and the schedule may be outlined in their employment agreement.

How to become a traffic control inspector?

To become a traffic control inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete traffic control training courses that cover safety procedures and signaling. Some states or employers may require certification, such as the OSHA Traffic Control Certification, and prior experience working in construction or traffic management can be beneficial.

What certification do you need for traffic control inspector?

Traffic control inspectors typically need certification in flagging and traffic control procedures, such as the OSHA-approved Traffic Control Certification or a state-specific certification. These certifications ensure they understand safety standards, proper signaling, and work zone setup to manage traffic effectively and safely.

What are popular job titles related to Traffic Control Inspector jobs in California?

For Traffic Control Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Traffic Control Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Control Inspector jobs in California are:

Traffic Control Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traffic Control Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,934 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Traffic Control

VSS International, Inc.

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description
"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY"
We are in need of Traffic Control laborer for our VSS International, Inc . This opportunity is in Santa Cruz County and is contingent upon being awarded the project.
The ideal candidate will be a safe, hardworking, team-oriented person who is ok with working outdoors on road construction crews.
General Duties:
  • Set up, maintain, adjust, and remove temporary traffic control devices, including cones, signs, barricades, channelizers, arrow boards, message boards, flagging stations, and related equipment.
  • Assist with directing traffic, pedestrians, trucks, and equipment safely through or around active work zones in accordance with approved traffic control plans and supervisor direction.
  • Perform flagging duties when assigned, using proper hand signals, paddles, radios, and communication methods to control traffic flow safely.
  • Inspect traffic control setups throughout the shift and make corrections as needed to maintain visibility, spacing, alignment, and compliance with project requirements.
  • Load, unload, carry, place, retrieve, clean, and organize traffic control equipment, signs, cones, barricades, and related materials.
  • Communicate with foremen, supervisors, drivers, operators, laborers, inspectors, and other crew members regarding traffic control needs, hazards, delays, and changing jobsite conditions.
  • Maintain a safe and orderly work zone by staying alert to traffic, pedestrians, equipment movement, changing lane closures, and environmental conditions.
  • Report unsafe conditions, damaged traffic control devices, incidents, near misses, equipment concerns, or public complaints to the supervisor promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies, traffic control plans, DOT requirements, client requirements, and jobsite rules, including proper use of required personal protective equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Knowledge of basic work zone safety, traffic control devices, flagging procedures, and construction site operations preferred.
  • Ability to follow traffic control plans, verbal instructions, hand signals, radio communication, and jobsite safety requirements.
  • Ability to safely place, move, lift, and retrieve cones, signs, barricades, stands, flags, paddles, and related traffic control equipment.
  • Strong awareness of surroundings when working near live traffic, moving equipment, pedestrians, changing lane closures, and active construction operations.
  • Ability to remain alert, professional, and calm while communicating with drivers, pedestrians, crew members, inspectors, and the public.
  • Dependable attendance, punctuality, and willingness to work overtime, weekends, nights, and variable schedules as needed.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

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