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Traffic Control Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Traffic Control Officer information

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$13

$24

$51

How much do traffic control officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for traffic control officer in Virginia is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traffic control officer?

Traffic Control Officers are professionals responsible for directing the movement of vehicles and pedestrians to ensure safety and efficiency, especially around construction zones, events, or accident sites. They use signs, signals, and their own instructions to manage traffic flow, prevent accidents, and minimize congestion. These officers often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may coordinate with law enforcement or emergency services as needed.

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

To thrive as a Traffic Control Officer, you need a solid understanding of traffic laws, safety regulations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with two-way radios, traffic control devices, and sometimes certification like a flagger certification or completion of traffic control training is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure public safety, efficient traffic flow, and effective response to emergencies or incidents on the road.

What are some common challenges faced by traffic control officers on the job?

Traffic Control Officers often face challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, managing high-stress situations during peak traffic hours, and communicating effectively with both drivers and construction crews. They must remain alert and adaptable, as traffic patterns and conditions can change rapidly. Building strong situational awareness and maintaining clear communication with team members are key to successfully navigating these challenges and ensuring the safety of everyone on site.

What is the difference between Traffic Control Officer vs Traffic Management Technician?

AspectTraffic Control OfficerTraffic Management Technician
CertificationsTraffic Control Certification, OSHA safety trainingTraffic Control Certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentRoadside, construction sites, event setupsFieldwork, site assessments, installation of traffic devices
Employer & IndustryConstruction, road maintenance, public eventsTransportation agencies, construction firms, infrastructure projects

Both roles require similar certifications and work in outdoor, roadside environments. While Traffic Control Officers primarily direct traffic and ensure safety at work zones, Traffic Management Technicians focus on planning, installing, and maintaining traffic control devices. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do traffic control officers get paid weekly?

Traffic control officers 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 regions for this role. Employees often receive wages through direct deposit or check, and schedules may be outlined in their employment agreement.

How hard is it to become a traffic control officer?

Becoming a traffic control officer typically requires completing a training program, obtaining a certification such as a flagger certification, and sometimes passing a background check. The process is generally straightforward and can often be completed in a few days to weeks, depending on local requirements and training availability.
Traffic Control Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traffic Control Officer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,516 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Traffic Control Officer

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Oak Hill, VA

$22.99 - $37.94/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Compensation Grade:

PS10

Salary Range:

$22.99-$37.94

Opening Date:

July 24, 2026

Closing Date:

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As a Traffic Control Officer (TCO), you will perform pedestrian and traffic control and parking enforcement at either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Traffic Control Officer (TCO)
Serves in the Police Department in the Office of Public Safety at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Directs pedestrian and vehicular traffic to ensure public safety and enforces parking regulations. Performs related duties.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepares for duty by attending roll call and reviewing activity logs and other materials to obtain information on previous shift incidents and new policies or procedures.

Prepares and performs operator-level maintenance on equipment and vehicles prior to start of shift. Requests repairs, as needed.

Provides pertinent information about incidents and equipment to supervisor and coworkers at the end of shift.

Monitors and controls vehicular and pedestrian traffic at the Airport. Directs traffic or assists police officers in directing traffic. Helps cordon off areas and control crowds during peak periods or special circumstances.

Patrols time zoned and/or restricted ground transportation areas at the public curb to detect violations and explains nature of violation and associated law or regulation.

Issues administrative citations for violations of loading zone, fire lane, fire hydrant, double parking, and traffic obstruction. 

Monitors vehicles for transportation network company (TNC) decals and trade dress identification; directs TNC vehicles to holding area and explains regulations.

Arranges for towing or relocation of vehicles and assists with the related paperwork.

Provides credible testimony in court relating to parking citations and/or as a witness to an incident. Prepares for testimony by organizing information, reviewing personal notes and case files, and coordinating with others.

Maintains vigilance on patrol and provides immediate information on incidents, suspicious persons, unattended baggage, safety hazards, and other issues to police officers and the Airports Authority Public Safety Communications Center.  

Attends training to maintain proficiency and learn new job-related information and skills. May help train new TCOs.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to safely and effectively direct pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

Ability to learn Virginia and County (Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun) traffic and parking regulations and apply to traffic control and parking regulation enforcement.

Ability to acquire knowledge of and apply procedures and standards pertinent to the assignment.

Ability to pay close attention to detail and observe surroundings to identify suspicious activity and enforce straightforward laws, ordinances, and regulations.

Ability to provide effective customer service.

Ability to interact with others in a businesslike manner.

Ability to work under pressure and maintain self-control during peak periods, incidents, and emergencies.

Ability to give credible testimony in court.

Ability to perform basic analyses of data and information.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in using a computer and time and attendance system, with emphasis on software/systems used for traffic control and parking enforcement.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience directing vehicle traffic in a high-volume setting.

Customer service experience in a high-volume setting.

EDUCATION

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Education Development (GED).

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver's license in good standing.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Operates vehicle landside and airside (requires AOA permit).

Work requires standing and walking on traffic patrol.

Is exposed to adverse weather conditions, dust, dirt, fumes, and excessive noise and works around moving vehicles.

Wears outdoor gear and personal protective equipment when directing traffic.

Uses hand and arm movements when directing traffic.

Examines vehicle identification decals and markings.

Responds to the alarms of backing vehicles.

Is subject to job pressures during peak periods and emergencies and interpersonal conflicts, such as from persons who have been ticketed.

Maintains concentration amid distractions to ensure own safety and safety of others.

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.

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