Senior Traffic Signal & Lighting Technician

Description

SENIOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL & LIGHTING TECHNICIAN

DEFINITION
Under general direction, lead and perform complex skilled electronic, electro-mechanical, microprocessor control, and electrical work in the installation, modification, maintenance, and repair of traffic signals and lighting control equipment. Work performed includes skilled electrical work in the installation, modification, maintenance and repair of traffic signals and lighting control equipment; preventive maintenance work on traffic signal systems, including the traffic signal controller, vehicle detection system, battery backup system, signal heads, poles, mast arms, street lighting and other related electrical systems; routine inspections of traffic signal equipment; tests electrical and electronic equipment operation including timing schemes, vehicle detections, conflict monitors and traffic signal hardware, and other systems to ensure they operate as intended; and ensures electrical compatibility and safety of components.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the advanced journey-level class within the traffic maintenance series. This class is distinguished from the other classes within the series by the level of responsibility assumed, complexity of duties assigned, and by the independence allowed to operate and make decisions in performing their assignments. Employees perform the most difficult and responsible types of duties assigned to classes within this series. Employees at this level are required to be fully trained in all procedures related to assigned area of responsibility and are expected to act as the lead and train assigned staff.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from assigned supervisor. Exercises technical and functional supervision over lower-level technical personnel. May oversee, and/or direct the work of contract personnel.

Examples of Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Independently perform troubleshooting, diagnostic, and problem-solving activities.
• Install, repair, replace, or modify signal head components, controllers, relays, switches, fuses, timers, light fixtures, lamps, circuitry, and cabinet parts.
• Conduct preventative maintenance and testing of electronic, electro-mechanical, and microprocessor-controlled traffic equipment.
• Inspect and diagnose malfunctions in signal controls, auxiliary equipment, and street lighting equipment to adjust and/or replace components as needed.
• Interpret and maintain schematic drawings, operations manuals, and repair logs on related traffic and street lighting equipment in various formats such as paper signal logs, online work order database, etc.
• Program, install, modify, and maintain electronic traffic signal detection equipment or other Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) elements.
• Calculate and develop Signal Timing for traffic control systems for Engineering Division approval.
• Run diagnostic reports from traffic signal software.
• Monitor and maintain tools, equipment, and shop areas; follow safety procedures in a variety of hazardous environments including high voltage areas.
• Maintain inventory, prepare work estimates and reports; maintain accurate manuals and records.
• Respond to emergency calls such as related to traffic signal or lighting issues.
• Investigate and respond to public concerns regarding signal operations.
• Operate vehicles and aerial lifts; use heavy equipment as needed.
• Inspect contractor work for compliance; recommend corrective actions.
• Oversee and administer contracts related to signal and streetlight maintenance, and related operations.
• Plan, design, and improve traffic control systems to enhance current and projected traffic efficiency and usability.
• Provide technical supervision regarding traffic control devices to other traffic technicians and laborers.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Coordinate with signal and streetlight material vendors for purchase of material and turn on support. Coordinate shipment delivery and storage.
• Perform duties as needed when assigned to standby duty or on-call to provide after-hours emergency assistance related to traffic signals or other issues; respond in emergency situations as needed.
• Other related work as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

Knowledge of:
• Basic principles of supervision and training.
• Principles, methods, materials, tools, and practices used in the repair of electronic, electrical and mechanical devices used in street lighting, and traffic control.
• Principles, methods, practices in traffic signal design, timing plans signal phasing, traffic control painting and signing operations.
• Principles and practices of new construction traffic signal inspection.
• Principles, methods, and practices of information systems maintenance and operations.
• Specialized computer software applications related to traffic control systems.
• Applicable laws and regulations, relevant to assigned duties, including California Vehicle Code, Uniform Sign Chart and Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the California Supplement of the MUTCD.
• Proper traffic control (including warning signs and cones) to provide safe passage for the traveling public through the work area, as well as for the safeguard of workers.
• Safe work practices and traffic control procedures.
• English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service to public and City staff, in person, using video-conferencing platforms, via email, cellular devices and related communication platforms.

Ability to:
• Plan and oversee traffic maintenance activities.
• Identify and implement an effective course of action to complete assigned work.
• Inspect the work of others and maintain established quality control standards.
• Train others in proper and safe work procedures.
• Inspect, test, repair and adjust complex electronic and electrical traffic control devices.
• Read and interpret plans, electronic drawings, and wiring diagrams.
• Recommend needed changes and improvements to standards, policies, or ordinances.
• Review and authorize work orders, and payments within specific procedural guidelines.
• Detect and locate faulty materials and workmanship.
• Read, interpret, and apply complex technical publications, manuals, and other documents.
• Use electronic test equipment such as voltmeters, signal backup generators, meggers, and other electrical maintenance test equipment.
• Skillfully and safely operate and maintain a variety of traffic control, painting and related equipment, and hand and power tools.
• Work with contractors on City approved projects.
• Organize own work, set priorities and meet critical time deadlines.
• Effectively represent the department and the City in meetings with other departments, public and private organizations, and individuals.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.
• Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform the assigned duties.
• Effectively operate office and field equipment related to areas of assignment.
• Understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
• Schedule, coordinate, and monitor contracts and sub-contract work.
• Provide technical and functional supervision and training to assigned staff and oversight of contractors.
• Work scheduled and emergency overtime; be available for call back, as required; and to change work periods and workdays dependent on operational requirements of the City.
• Provide high quality, economical services to the Citrus Heights community, placing emphasis on responsive customer service.
• Demonstrate a civic entrepreneurial spirit by generating new, innovative ideas and development of better methods to accomplish tasks and complete projects.
• Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust and respect.
• Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation and communication.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.
• Use principles of effective office safety including use of equipment in a proper and safe manner, use of preventative personal ergonomic techniques, and maintenance of safe housekeeping in personal and common workspaces.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Operate a personal computer with proficiency and familiarity.

Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Four (4) years of responsible experience in the installation, modification, maintenance, and repair of traffic signals, lighting control equipment, or other industrial/commercial electrical systems. Experience in the oversight of projects or staff or in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of software programs is highly desirable.
Training:
Equivalent to the completion of the 12th grade; completion of a college level Certificate of achievement program in a technical field such as electronics or computer science.
License or Certificate:
• A valid California Class C or higher driver's license with satisfactory driving record is required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• A Work Zone Traffic Control Safety Certificate issued by the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA), or successful completion of a City approved Traffic Control Training Course within twelve (12) months of appointment.
• Possession of the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Traffic Signal Technician I and Traffic Signal Technician II certifications are required at the time of application submission.
• Possession of the International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) Traffic Signal Technician III desirable

Supplemental Information

PHYSICAL/SENSORY REQUIREMENTS
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, smart tablet, and work in the field, on City streets and roadways, and at substantial heights; strength, stamina and mobility to perform medium physical work, operate various hand and power tools and construction equipment; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; color vision to determine correct colors for street and traffic signs, signals and markings; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to perform field work that requires frequent walking at construction site areas to identify problems or hazards; finger dexterity to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate above-mentioned tools and equipment; ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites; lift, move, and carry materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, and heavier weights with the use of proper equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workshops, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and Enforcement departmental policies and procedures.

The City offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

The City’s first-class benefits include:

• RETIREMENT- CalPERS retirement (employee pays full member contribution).
  • Classic member 2.7% @ 55 (Employees hired with the City of Citrus Heights before 08/14/2011)
  • Classic member 2% @ 55
  • PEPRA member 2% @ 62
• LEAVE - the City’s time off options.
  • 136 hours of Annual Leave (to be used for vacation or sick time)
  • 40 hours of Long Term Medical Leave
  • 16 hours of Floating Holiday beginning Jan 1st each year
• HEALTH INSURANCE - monthly City contribution toward health insurance ($2375contribution for Family coverage, $1850 contributionfor Employee + 1 person & $925 contribution for Employee only), or a $700/month stipend if alternative group health care coverage is demonstrated. City also provides Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Account options.
• DENTAL/VISION - fully paid family dental & family vision.
• LIFE INSURANCE - City pays $50,000life & accidental death & dismemberment for employees, and long-term disability insurance. Optional life is available to employees at their expense.
• DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN - Optional enrollment in a pre-tax payroll deducted 457 plan (Mission Square).

SOCIAL SECURITY - The City does not participate in Social Security but does participate in Medicare and State Disability Insurance (SDI).

Closing Date/Time: 12/8/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

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• City of Citrus Heights

• 916-725-2448

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