$39.35 HOURLY, $81,848 ANNUALIZED; ADDITIONAL $5.00/HR FOR IOWA PE LICENSE
Step Raises: New employees start on step 1 (as posted) and increase by one step each July 1 up to Step 3.
This position presents an exhilarating opportunity for individuals who seek to learn, develop, and make significant contributions in the field of traffic engineering. As part of this role, you will have the chance to work with cutting-edge traffic signal control systems and software, allowing you to explore and leverage the most advanced technologies available towards a safer more efficient traditional and alternative modes of transportation. You will thrive in an environment that fosters innovation, where fresh ideas are not only embraced but actively encouraged.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES This entry level position plans, directs, performs, or participates in a variety of traffic engineering related projects and tasks such as traffic signal control system operation, design of traffic signal plans, specifications and cost estimates, traffic signal system timings, and traffic studies. Works under the general direction of the Traffic Operations Director, but considerable leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. May work on traffic signal simulation and optimization software, traffic safety improvements, traffic safety awareness campaigns, project management, grant writing, and spearhead innovations.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Illustrative only) These functions are considered essential for successful performance in this job classification.
Coordinates and administers traffic and traffic safety improvement construction projects and contracts such as traffic signal installation, roundabouts, signal retiming, and other traffic related construction and studies.
Assists the Department Director with reviewing and supervising work of signal technicians, electricians, and sign and pavement marking crew.
Coordinates traffic monitoring camera network maintenance and operations.
Manages Waterloo’s adaptive traffic signal control systems.
Performs, or directs, or monitors traffic studies.
Oversees work of consultants and contractors.
Prepares and analyzes traffic and traffic safety data.
Prepares grant applications.
Provides traffic engineering support services to Planning & Zoning Department and Engineering Department as needed.
Compiles reports, performs data entry and completes forms on personal computer using the applicable software.
Works inside and outside in all weather conditions to review construction sites, meet with contractors and attend meetings; drives passenger vehicle to and from the destination.
Works independently and with others with minimum supervision.
Attends work regularly at the designated place and time.
Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City and Traffic Operations Department policies, procedures and safety rules and regulations.
Performs all other related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES
Knowledge of the general principles and practices of engineering as applied to the design, maintenance, inspection and repair of traffic/transportation facilities.
Ability and willingness to learn to plan projects and prepare related designs, plan, specifications and cost estimates.
Ability to present materials and information in good report form, complete forms and perform required record keeping.
Skilled in use of personal computer, Microsoft Office, CAD software.
Familiarity with GIS software.
Ability to communicate orally and in writing to read, analyze, record and interpret complex technical data and computations, review materials on a variety of engineering projects, present facts and findings clearly and concisely, give advice and recommendations and respond to questions from the public, public officials, contractors and coworkers.
Ability to work with people from a broad variety of social, economic, racial, ethnic and educational backgrounds.
Ability to communicate and maintain effective working relationships with other City employees, supervisors, public officials, contractors, other government subdivisions and agencies and the public.
ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE & TRAINING
A Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Transportation or Traffic Engineering
OR
a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering with transportation focus if bachelor’s degree is not in civil engineering
OR
a Construction, Electrical, Electronics, or Industrial Engineering Bachelor’s Degree in combination with 2 years of experience in traffic engineering
OR
a combination of any higher education degree with 5 years of proven experience in traffic engineering.
Prefer a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a traffic-focused master’s degree in civil engineering.
Engineer in Training Certificate (EIT), or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment, is required. Those with a master’s degree in civil engineering will have 1 year to earn their EIT certificate.
Ability and willingness to learn traffic signal system simulation and optimization (VISSIM & VISTRO).
Ability to function with independent judgment and skill to plan, assist and supervise the work of others as it relates to engineering principles and practices.
Prefer some traffic signal experience.
Must obtain and maintain Iowa driver's license and have good driving record based on City of Waterloo insurability criteria. Four or more moving violations within the previous three years, three or more moving violations within the previous one year, or loss of license or conviction for DWI, reckless driving or other major moving violation within the previous five years will automatically eliminate applicant from consideration for employment. Loss of license or conviction for DWI, reckless driving or other major moving violation after appointment to position will result in layoff, leave of absence or termination. Four or more citations for moving violations within a three- year period or three or more citations for moving violations within a one-year period will be reviewed on a case-by case basis and continued employment will depend on insurability. Two or more at-fault accidents within a three-year period while driving a City vehicle may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES
The following physical abilities are required with or without accommodation.
Sufficient speech and hearing that permits the employee to respond to questions from the public, public officials, contractors and coworkers in person or on the telephone and to make oral presentations.
Sufficient personal mobility that permits the employee to safely operate a passenger vehicle, travel inside and outside in all weather, review construction sites and attend meetings.
Sufficient vision and manual dexterity that permits the employee to operate a personal computer, use civil engineering instruments and equipment, review construction sites, handle files and perform other administrative and technical duties.
MISCELLANEOUS
Required to wear personal protective equipment as needed such as safety glasses, safety shoes and safety vest and ability to observe and enforce appropriate safety precautions.
Following a conditional offer of employment, the City of Waterloo requires a physical examination and drug test by a physician of the City's choice to determine if an applicant is capable of performing the essential functions of the job.
The City of Waterloo will conduct a background investigation including employment and criminal history checks on any applicant being considered for this position.
Must submit to Civil Service examination procedures including an oral interview.
WORK SCHEDULE Generally Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. with one hour unpaid lunch. Must be available for department or City activities or meetings that require the attendance of the Associate Traffic Engineer.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION All qualified candidates who apply by the deadline date will be required to appear before an interview panel consisting of a minimum of three people who have expertise in the areas being tested. An individual must receive a minimum average score of sixty points out of one hundred to achieve a passing score on the interview. The top applicants, as ranked by their scores on the interview, will be the individuals placed on the certified list. Applicants who qualify as outlined and are full time regular employees of the City of Waterloo shall have one additional point per full year of employment up to a maximum of five points added to their final score. Honorably discharged men and women from the military or naval forces of the United States who qualify per provisions of Chapter 35 of the Code of Iowa and who are citizens and residents of the United States shall have five additional points added to their final score upon submission of their DD214 or ten points added if they were awarded a Purple Heart or have a service connected disability. Employment is contingent on possession of a good driving record based on City of Waterloo driver performance criteria and passing a post job offer physical and drug test.
EXAMINATION DATE All qualified candidates who apply by the deadline date will be notified of the time, place and date of the oral examination.
City of Waterloo strives to redefine the future of public services through technology. The City of Waterloo Public Works Division is a hub of innovation where advanced GIS-based technologies shape our services. Central to public works operations is the GIS/GPS-based online paperless workorder system which exemplifies commitment to efficiency and environmental stewardship. As part of the PW Division, the Traffic Operations Department is setting the foundation for the a smart city ecosystem using smart poles and fiber optics to enhance traffic signal communications and deploying a network of traffic monitoring cameras. Our team is cutting edge - implementing adaptive signal control technologies and piloting smart street installations integrating IoT for a smarter, more connected urban environment. Traffic safety and transportation alternative initiatives always take priority over other endeavors. Join us at the City of Waterloo to be on the forefront of public service innovation, where your work directly contributes to the wellbeing of our community and the efficiency of our city’s infrastructure.