Traffic Technicians
O*NET 53-6041.00 · SOC 53-6041
Traffic Technician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $59k a year with +4% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Collect and analyze traffic volume and speed data
- →Install or adjust traffic signals and signage at intersections
- →Study traffic flow patterns to identify congestion problems
- →Prepare reports and diagrams of traffic conditions
- →Recommend changes to signal timing based on traffic studies
Education & How to Get In
Most Traffic Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Traffic Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Traffic Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Traffic Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Traffic Technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Traffic Technician make?
The median Traffic Technician earns $59k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Traffic Technician jobs?
Our model puts Traffic Technician at 44 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Traffic Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Traffic Technician?
Most Traffic Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Traffic Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Traffic Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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