Traffic Operations Center Assistant Traffic Specialist

Job Description Overview

We are seeking a Traffic Operations Center Assistant Traffic Specialist to join our Mountain Regional Traffic Management Center (TMC) in Asheville, NC. This role will provide technical support for their TMC which is responsible for managing traffic congestion on roadways throughout Western NC responding to planned and unplanned traffic incidents including road work, vehicle crashes, and major adverse weather. TMC staff use an array of technologies to monitor and detect traffic incidents, to prevent and resolve traffic impacts, and to interface with emergency responders and the traveling public.

The TMC is a communications hub and emergency response facility. Successful Assistant Traffic Specialists are organized, detail oriented, and capable of solving complex problems. Assistant Traffic Specialists (ATS) report to the TMC Senior Supervisor and receive training from a Traffic Specialist in Raleigh, NC. ATS must be capable of directing their own work. ATS analyse planned and unplanned traffic impacts to develop effective resources that will support their TMC’s response capabilities.

ATS are also expected to provide hands‑on support in the control room to assist with major incident response in real‑time. A typical day is comprised of regularly scheduled tasks and unscheduled incident response activities. ATS must possess good time management and organizational skills while maintaining the flexibility required to adapt to shifting priorities. ATS work closely with internal/external partners and must be clear, effective communicators who reliably follow‑through on their commitments.

ATS typically work Monday-Friday from 9am-5:30pm. Due to the nature of the traffic management industry and the TMC’s hours of operation, candidates must be willing to work modified hours, weekends and/or holidays as needed.

Your role

Analyze planned/unplanned events, traffic data, road geometrics, construction plans, and other inputs to understand and plan for traffic impacts and mitigation strategies. Develop and maintain response plans and other resources to support TOC staff’s ability to respond to planned/unplanned traffic events effectively. Deliver comprehensive and accurate reports to help communicate and track various performance levels and roadway trends. Perform regular quality assurance activities to support the TOC’s overall quality assurance program.

Provide recommendations to internal/external stakeholders on technology requirements, traffic routing strategies, and incident/event response measures. Interface with major construction project stakeholders and provide regular support related to the management and operations of major work zones. Develop traveler information – including messaging for NCDOT’s electronic message boards – to effectively influence motorists’ driving behavior. Perform regular tests on various devices and systems to support consistent functionality of essential resources.

Provide direct, real‑time support for major incidents/events as needed to include implementation of tasks typically associated with TOC control room staff. Complete other duties and tasks as directed by the Traffic Specialist or other leadership staff.

High School diploma (or equivalent) required. Two years’ administrative or technical work experience required. One-year experience as supervisor fill-in is preferred. External applicants must complete ATS training within 6-8 weeks of employment. Data analysis, response plan development, logistical experience in a TMC or other similar environment including dispatch centers, 911 operations, or other emergency operations is preferred. Must be proficient with computer skills.

Must have a good command of the English language. Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills required. Excellent written communication skills and ability to produce polished, effective materials in multiple formats (e.g. reports, presentations, graphics, spreadsheets, etc.) required. Ability to perform in a professional, courteous manner and remain friendly while under pressure.

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