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Traffic Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Traffic Project Engineer

Manchester, NH · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Norwood, MA · Hybrid

$89K - $116K/yr

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Norwood, MA · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

Inspect contractor's traffic control during transportation construction project. * Meets scheduling and attendance requirements. * Understands and interprets schematic drawings to locate and record ...

Inspect contractor's traffic control during transportation construction project. * Meets scheduling and attendance requirements. * Understands and interprets schematic drawings to locate and record ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Lincoln, RI · Hybrid

$89K - $116K/yr

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

Traffic Project Engineer

Lincoln, RI · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

As a Traffic Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in solving complex traffic challenges and ... Conduct site inspections, prepare technical reports, and liaise with municipal agencies ...

Inspect contractor's traffic control during transportation construction project. * Meets scheduling and attendance requirements. * Understands and interprets schematic drawings to locate and record ...

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Traffic Inspector information

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$19

$27

How much do traffic inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for traffic inspector in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Traffic Inspector, you need a solid understanding of traffic laws, road safety regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a relevant high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with traffic monitoring systems, handheld inspection devices, and reporting software is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you interact with the public and enforce regulations fairly. These abilities are crucial for ensuring road safety, minimizing violations, and maintaining the smooth flow of traffic.

How do you become a road inspector?

To become a traffic inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in traffic management or law enforcement. Certification or training in traffic control, safety procedures, and sometimes a valid driver's license are also required. The hiring process often involves passing written exams, background checks, and physical assessments.

Is traffic control a stressful job?

Traffic inspectors are responsible for managing and directing traffic flow, which can involve working in high-pressure situations, especially during peak hours or emergencies. The job requires alertness, good communication skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations safely and efficiently.

How much do traffic control inspectors make?

Traffic control inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience and location. In some areas, salaries can range from $40,000 to $65,000, and the role often requires knowledge of safety protocols and traffic management tools.

How much do traffic signal technicians make?

Traffic signal technicians in California typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience and certifications. The role involves installing, maintaining, and repairing traffic control devices, often requiring knowledge of electrical systems and safety protocols.

What are Traffic Inspectors?

Traffic Inspectors are professionals responsible for monitoring and enforcing traffic regulations to ensure public safety and smooth transportation flow. They often inspect vehicles for compliance with laws, oversee road usage, investigate accidents, and may issue citations for violations. Their work helps prevent accidents and keep roads safe for all users. Traffic Inspectors may work for government agencies, transportation departments, or law enforcement organizations.

What is the difference between Traffic Inspector vs Traffic Clerk?

AspectTraffic InspectorTraffic Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, relevant certifications, sometimes specialized trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic administrative skills
Work EnvironmentFieldwork on roads, traffic stops, inspectionsOffice or administrative settings, data entry
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation agencies, law enforcement, city departmentsTransportation companies, government offices, traffic management
Common Search & ComparisonTraffic Inspector vs Traffic Clerk

Traffic Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting vehicles, enforcing traffic laws, and ensuring safety on the roads, often working outdoors. Traffic Clerks handle administrative tasks like record-keeping, data entry, and processing traffic-related documents, usually in office settings. While both roles support traffic management, they differ in responsibilities, work environment, and required skills.

What are some common challenges a Traffic Inspector faces, and how can these be addressed on the job?

Traffic Inspectors often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, dealing with non-compliant drivers, and managing high-pressure situations like accidents or traffic congestion. To address these, it’s important to maintain strong communication skills, stay updated on traffic regulations, and develop a calm, solution-focused approach to conflict resolution. Working closely with law enforcement, road maintenance teams, and the public also helps ensure smooth operations and effective incident response.
More about Traffic Inspector jobs
What states have the most Traffic Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Traffic Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Traffic Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,463 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

PW Traffic Inspector

City of Charlottesville, VA

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$48K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Public Works Administration, 305 4th Street Northwest, Charlottesville (22903), VA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 260400002
Department: Public Works Department
Division: Public Works Administration
Opening Date: 04/14/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Bargaining Unit: Labor and Trades
General Summary
04/27/2026: Recruitment updated to "Continuous/Open Until Filled."
The Public Works Traffic Inspector performs technical and physical work to assist in the inspection of traffic and street/sidewalk projects and operations for compliance with state and local requirements and safety standards. Work is performed on City streets or within the City's right-of-way including traffic operations with general supervision. Reports to the City Traffic Engineer.
If job requirements cannot be met by an individual, an " In-Training" designation may be used until such time as a training plan is completed and minimum requirements are obtained while performing the job duties under immediate supervision(click here to view the In-Training Traffic Inspector description). The incumbent will be provided with a training plan with measurable competencies that have been developed for the position. Once the training competencies have been satisfactorily achieved, including meeting all criteria of the Traffic Inspector, the incumbent may be placed in and assume the duties of the Traffic Inspector.
Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity:
  • PW Traffic Inspector: Preferred hiring range is between $23.42 - $28.20 an hour ($48,713.60 - $58,656.00 annually).
  • PW Traffic Inspector In-Training: Preferred hiring range is between $19.12 - $20.34 an hour ($39,769.60 - $42,307.20 annually).

As of March 28, 2024, this position is part of the Labor and Trades bargaining unit. Future wage adjustments are subject to terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement between the City and the exclusive bargaining representative. This is a full-time, non-exempt, position which provides excellent benefits including 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, City's retirement options, gym membership reimbursement, and continuing education/training opportunities.
  • For a general summary of benefits offered by the City, please click the 'benefits' tab on this posting, or visit
  • The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS, however the City has a Portability Agreement with VRS and there are certain provisions that must be met. For questions pertaining to the Portability Agreement, please contact the City's Benefits Administrator at 434-970-3462.

Note: This job opportunity is advertised with a closing date of "Continuous." If interested in being considered, an application should be submitted as soon as possible. Applications may no longer be considered once a reasonable number of applications has been received or once a candidate to fill the position is identified. Applications may be evaluated on a continuous basis and interviews may be conducted as soon as possible during the recruitment with candidates who are best qualified. This job announcement may close at any time after 7 calendar days.
Essential Responsibilities and Duties
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description. The City retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
  • Manages the temporary street, sidewalks and inspects street and sidewalk closures.
  • Assists with managing the parking permit program.
  • Coordinates with utility companies and other stakeholders the temporary street, sidewalks and parking adjustments needed for improvements and changes.
  • Inspects traffic control operations to ensure compliance with specifications and standards. Works with in-house staff and contractors to identify deficiencies and make corrections for compliance and safety.
  • Coordinates with Traffic Operations staff on maintenance and infrastructure improvement efforts.
  • Ensures proper public notification related to work in the right of way, and traffic control measures by contractors.
  • Keeps progress records and prepares reports on project for planning and accountability of contractors and staff. Notifies contractors of deviations or errors and advises on corrective actions needed.
  • Reviews and verifies contractor billing quantities are accurate prior to payment.
  • Enforces safety standards and policies on construction sites.
  • Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools and other resources, including work time.
  • Regular and reliable attendance.
  • Subject to being called back to work to the City in emergencies or as needed to provide necessary services to the public. Must have the ability to be contacted and respond based on Departmental guidelines.
Other Duties:
  • Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned.

Education, Experience and Skills
Education and Experience: Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education.
  • High School diploma or GED AND 2 years of experience in street/traffic maintenance, construction, inspection, or related area.

OR
  • 4 years of experience in street/traffic maintenance, construction, inspection, or related area.

OR
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above.
Certifications/Licenses/Other Requirements:
  • Virginia Intermediate Traffic Control Certification within 12 months of hire.
  • OSHA Construction Safety training within 12 months of hire.
  • Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Driver's License and acceptable driving record according to city criteria.
  • Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check, pre-employment physical and pre-employment drug screening.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics:
Job Knowledge
  • Working knowledge of state and local ordinances, laws and regulations related to traffic operations.
  • Working knowledge of ADA compliance, right of way operations, traffic regulations and safety standards.
  • Working knowledge of Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
Reading
  • Intermediate: Ability to read and understand written materials such as regulations, safety standards, reports, design plans, etc.
Writing
  • Intermediate: Ability to organize data and write clear and concise reports to notify contractor of non-compliance issues and to keep management informed of project progress, changes, etc., using proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar.
Math
  • Intermediate: Ability to work with and understand number systems; simple formulas, practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios/proportions, and measurements; including to monitor expenditures and verify billing by contractors for accuracy.
Communication Skills
  • Intermediate: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, city staff, vendors, contractors, and the public. Ability to provide and receive complex information. May include interactions that involve stressful, negative situations requiring significant tact and the ability to diffuse aggressive behavior and reach consensus. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and understanding.
Independence and Decision-Making
  • Requires General Direction: Normally performs the job by following general instructions or established standard operating procedures and/or policies. There is some discretion when making decisions among a few easily identifiable choices of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance is reviewed frequently.
Technical Skills
  • Skilled: Comprehensive, practical knowledge of traffic operations and analytical judgment and decision-making abilities. Skill in reading blueprints and design plans. Skill in the use of a computer and Microsoft Office applications, departmental software, and data entry.
Fiscal Responsibilities
  • Assists in the monitoring of project expenditures to ensure accountability of funds.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Position does not supervise staff but may serve as a resource for project teams.
Other Characteristics
  • Organization and time management skills, sometimes under strict time constraints.
  • Frequent change of tasks.
  • Works closely with others as part of a team.
  • Tedious and exacting work.
  • Performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • May be required to work additional hours outside of normal schedule.
  • May require dealing with angry, frustrated and/or upset individuals.

Physical Conditions & Additional Information
Physical Demands:
  • Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • Must be able to move and traverse on work sites to monitor projects.
  • Requires frequent reaching, standing, occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, lifting, fingering, grasping and repetitive motion.
  • Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations
  • Ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software and Hardware:
  • Typically requires use of standard office equipment and telephone, and related software and hardware; and any other equipment as appropriate or as assigned.
  • Required to use standard equipment and tools of the trade.
Work Environment:
  • Position inspects projects with exposure to adverse weather conditions, uneven terrain, moving mechanical parts and traffic movement. Work is exposed to loud noise, chemicals/hazardous waste, fumes/airborne particles, electrical hazards, and fuels.
  • Some work is performed in an office environment where there may be exposure to computer screen for extended periods of time, monitor glare, dust and moderate noise levels.

The City of Charlottesville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports workforce diversity at all levels of the organization. The City prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City is dedicated to this with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.
Requests for reasonable accommodation by individuals with disabilities may be requested by contacting Human Resources at (434) 970-3490 or
The City of Charlottesville conducts job related background checks, reference checks, and pre-employment drug tests, in accordance with federal, state, and local law, of applicants who reach the final stages of the employment selection process. The City's policy has not changed because of the decriminalization of marijuana in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Marijuana remains an illegal drug under federal law, and it continues to be a violation of the US Department of Transportation regulations and the City's policy prohibiting employees from testing positive for marijuana.
SUMMARY OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Updated February 9, 2026

Benefits cited represent those for regular 40-hour employees and may differ for Management Level, Part-Time, and/or Library positions. Long-term temporary employees are eligible for all benefits except retirement. Interns, temporary, seasonal, substitute, and relief employees are not eligible for benefits.
1. LEAVE:
Vacation: Need some time off? Use it, you earned it:
Years Worked
0 - <3
3 - <5
5 - <10
10 - <15
15 - <20
20 - <25
25+
Hours Accrued Biweekly
3.09
3.85
4.62
5.4
6.16
6.93
7.7
Sick: Under the weather? Earn 4.62 hours biweekly, approximately 120 hours a year, with no limit on accumulation to be used to care for yourself and qualifying family members.
Holidays: Enjoy 13 paid holidays per year. Including 1 Floating Holiday, which must be taken during the Fiscal Year (July 1 - June 30):
OBSERVED CITY HOLIDAYS
New Years Day
Dr. Martin Luther King Day