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Traffic Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yunex Traffic

Traffic Signal Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Yunex Traffic is at the forefront of a technological revolution in Intelligent Traffic Systems. As ... Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and inspections performed. Collaborate with ...

Yunex Traffic

Traffic Signal Technician

El Cajon, CA · On-site

Yunex Traffic is at the forefront of a technological revolution in Intelligent Traffic Systems. As ... Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and inspections performed. Collaborate with ...

Yunex Traffic Austin

Traffic Signal Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

Yunex Traffic is at the forefront of a technological revolution in Intelligent Traffic Systems. As ... Maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and inspections performed. Collaborate with ...

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

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

Salinas, 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 ...

New

VSS International, Inc.

Traffic Control

Watsonville, 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 ...

New

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

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 ...

New

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

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.

$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 ...

New

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

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

$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 ...

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All JobsTraffic Inspector JobsTraffic Inspector Jobs in California

Traffic Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do traffic inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for traffic 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 is a traffic inspector?

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 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.

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.

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.

How to become a traffic inspector?

To become a traffic inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass written and physical exams. Relevant skills include knowledge of traffic laws, good observation, and communication abilities; some positions may require certification or training provided by transportation agencies.

Is a traffic inspector job in demand?

Traffic inspector jobs are generally in steady demand in regions with active transportation networks and infrastructure projects. Employment opportunities depend on government budgets, transportation needs, and local regulations, with roles often requiring knowledge of traffic laws and safety procedures.

What certification do you need for traffic inspector?

Traffic inspectors typically need a valid driver's license and may require certification in traffic control or safety procedures, such as the OSHA 10 or 30-hour construction safety certification. Some jurisdictions also require completion of a training program specific to traffic inspection and enforcement.

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

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

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

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

Traffic Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traffic Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,934 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Traffic Controller - Oakland

Oakland, CA

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT, LLC
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT, LLCexternal

$17.34 - $36.21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Job Summary
The Traffic controller will be responsible for placing, maintaining, and removing traffic control operationsper the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

Essential Duties

  • Respond to Dispatch Center calls in a timely manner for availability - no later than 1 hour if between the hours and 8am and 5pm and no later than the next day if after 5pm.
  • Maintain contact and coordination with TMI Dispatcher on and off the job
  • Maintain all equipment in a safe and working condition
  • Perform pre-job inspection and inventory utilizing the Vehicle and Equipment Checklist (VEC)
    • Inspect vehicle to ensure safe operation prior to operating (oil, tire air pressure,etc.) and report any concerns to your supervisor or the dispatcher
    • Inventory and inspect equipment needed for job
    • Load all required equipment into vehicle
  • Navigate safely to and from office to jobsite utilizing all aspect of the Smith Driving System toensure safety
  • Setting up devices: cones, signs, barricades, water-filled k-rail, etc. on job site per MUTCDguidelines
  • Flagging of traffic to ensure safe work zone for TMI customers, TMI employees, and the public
  • Coordinating with customer and/or TMI dispatcher ensuring a safe, efficient and problem free service provided to TMI customers
  • Completing required paperwork, receipts, and time-sheets on or before mandatory deadlines
  • Report any and all unsafe conditions to supervisor as soon as possible
  • Ensure a safe work zone at all times for the customer and pedestrians by being attentive andrefraining from being in the vehicle unless on a break

Equipment Operated

  • Vehicles (Trucks/Cars) of various sizes
  • Flatbed trucks
  • Trailer mounted warning signs
  • Cones, delineators, drums, barricades, signs and various other traffic control devices
  • Trailer

Essential Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Requires standing for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to perform full deep squat
  • Full range of motion of arms and legs
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 50lb from floor to chest level carrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 25lb from floor to shoulder level carrying horizontally for25ft
  • Requires using hands to handle, control or lift objects with a strong grip
  • Requires the ability to raise the arms over the shoulders to life and place objects of up to 50lbscarrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires stepping at least 33 inches onto tailgate of a truck
  • Requires being outside and exposed to environmental conditions
  • Requires being in construction environment
  • Requires repetitive movement
  • Requires bending at the elbows, at the knees, at the hip and bending forward
  • Exposure to work near moving mechanical parts, heavy equipment and moving vehicular traffic
  • Exposure to reasonable noise levels
  • Must be able to fulfill essential job function in a consistent state of alertness and safe manner
  • Ability to drive a vehicle in an alert and attentive manner with no conditions that may affect this

Basic Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • MUTCD knowledge
  • Ability to effectively communicate in English (written and verbal) with customers, TMI employeesand the public
  • Proficient in traffic control setup regulations
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to work well with others in a team environment
  • Maintain a positive work environment

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma (or equivalent)
  • Must have valid driver's license with clean driving record (must be insurable throughcompany insurance policy)
  • Preferred candidate must have:70% or better on pre-employment testing

Apply