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Traffic Control Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$28.50 - $35.06/hr

... inspections, onsite training, and performance reviews. Essential Functions: • Supervise job site ... control responsibilities • Provide the highest level of customer service to all customers. This ...

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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 Jul 14, 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 type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the field of traffic control inspection, senior or specialized inspectors with extensive experience, certifications, or supervisory roles tend to earn higher salaries. Those overseeing large projects or working for government agencies often receive higher pay compared to entry-level inspectors. Advanced skills in traffic management and safety protocols can also contribute to increased compensation.

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 are the qualifications to be a traffic controller?

Traffic control inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a traffic control training course that covers safety procedures and signaling techniques. Certification in flagging or traffic control is often required, and the job may require working outdoors in various weather conditions and having good communication skills.

Do flaggers get paid weekly?

Traffic control inspectors or flaggers 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 traffic management jobs. Employees often receive wages through direct deposit or check, and pay rates may depend on experience and certifications such as flagging training.

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.

How much do traffic control inspectors make?

Traffic control inspectors typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work outdoors, managing traffic flow at construction sites or roadwork zones, and may require certification in traffic control procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Traffic Control Inspector, and why are they important?

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Traffic Control Inspector job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,934 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

City Rise Traffic - Traffic Control Lead: Martinez

City Rise LLC

Martinez, CA • On-site

$40.71 - $50.90/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

City Rise Traffic - Traffic Control Lead: Martinez
Hourly / Non-Exempt / Full Time
Salary Range: $40.71 - $50.90/ hour

Salary depends on job classification and location


City Rise Traffic

We are a well-established and growing company offering a competitive salary and a great benefits package for the right candidate.

We service all of California from multiple locations. At City Rise Traffic, we provide high-quality traffic control safety services to construction sites, such as flagging traffic through a work site, lane closures to divert traffic, or detouring traffic to reduce traffic congestion and prevent accidents. We serve the needs of varied industries and are focused on maintaining a safe work environment for construction crews, our employees, and the public. Our focus is safety, so our customers can focus on their jobs.


Position Summary:
The Traffic Control Lead possesses a general knowledge of principles and practices of supervision. He or she works under the direction of a contractor to identify the various needs and/or phases of a job and is involved in providing onsite leadership and supervision over the traffic control work crew to ensure successful execution. The Lead is expected to safely execute all scopes of traffic control work, including but not limited to flagging setups, single to multi-lane closures, road closures, detours, freeway closures, specialty projects, and field supervision.
Outside of the standard Lead job site duties, the Lead will draw on their own knowledge and experience to assist in the onsite training and development of our traffic control employees. The Lead will collaborate with safety & training and field operations to maintain job-site compliance through employee evaluations, jobsite inspections, onsite training, and performance reviews.


Essential Functions:
•    Supervise job site
•    Develop superior knowledge of work zone setup and professional traffic control responsibilities
•    Provide the highest level of customer service to all customers. This includes on-time arrival and well managed work zones
•    Implement Traffic Plans & Permits
•    Complete daily Job Hazard Analysis and conduct tailgate meetings
•    Onsite client contact
•    Maintain a consistent and unrelenting focus on safety throughout all job functions.
•    Manage day-to-day work zone set up, maintenance and tear down.  Meeting or exceeding customer, state, federal and company expectations
•    Ability to recognize dangers using hearing and vision
•    Ability to handle stressful situations and take safe action to avoid serious injuries to any pedestrians, vehicles, customers, and employees
•    Ability to understand traffic signals/signs, traffic plans and customer requests
•    Ability to communicate with customers, the public, and with other team members
•    Follow company and MUTCD guidelines for effective, safe and well managed work zones
•    Driving company trucks
•    Tow and operate towable equipment
•    Keep equipment in trucks well organized and in working order
•    Evaluate employee performance 
•    Other duties as assigned 


Qualifications:
•    Current LIUNA membership with journey person classification, applicable CBA required 
•    Proficient knowledge of the Caltrans MUTCD
•    Can read and understand traffic control plans and permits
•    Can establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and others
•    Can work independently with minimum supervision while prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines
•    Strong interpersonal skills and professional demeanor
•    Work in high-volume outdoor locations with multiple interruptions throughout the day
•    Strong conflict resolution techniques
•    Strong leadership skills
•    Strong customer service skills
•    Excellent multitasking, problem-solving, and organizational skills
•    Basic computer skills required
•    Valid CA driver’s license with a clean driving record/insurable
•    Experience driving medium duty vehicles and towing trailers
•    Bilingual in English/Spanish a plus but not required


Education:
•    High school diploma preferred
•    3 years’ experience in a traffic control lead role or equivalent preferred
•    Valid ATSSA flagging certification
•    Valid ATSSA traffic control tech certification
•    Valid ATSSA traffic control supervisor certification
•    OSHA 10 certification
•    OSHA 30 certification
•    First aid/CPR certification
•    TMA certification
•    Has received all internal training required for lead advancement


Physical Demands:
•    Lift, carry and place traffic cones to ensure the safety of the work zone. Lifting may be up to 50 lbs
•    Use hands to handle, feel or reach with arms to talk
•    Sit, stoop or kneel
•    Lift, carry, pull, or place and assemble traffic control signs in the proper order to manage work zone traffic
•    Standing/walking for long periods while flagging, in various weather conditions and different times of day/night
•    Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus


Language Skills:
Ability to read and comprehend instructions, correspondence, and memos. Ability to write clear instructions, explanations, and correspondence. Ability to read, understand, and implement TCPs and follow industry guidelines. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.


City Rise Safety, LLC. is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and compliant workplace that values the contributions of all employees, union and non-union alike, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Employment is contingent upon verification of legal authorization to work in the United States and successful completion of a criminal background check, if applicable and consistent with California law, as well as any required drug screening conducted in compliance with applicable state and local laws.