Traffic Operator

City Of Elkhart – Job Description

Department: Street

Position: Traffic Operator

Division: Traffic

Status: Full-time

Category: Hourly, AFSCME

Pay Grade: PG 4-10 ($24.26-$29.80)

FLSA: Non-exempt

Reports To: Traffic Supervisor

Date: 2026

Incumbent performs construction, installation, and maintenance of signals, signage, pavement markings, guard rails, and other traffic control devices in the public right-of-way. Also performs related work on public facilities in Elkhart and reacts to requests by the public or other departments for various maintenance or technical needs in the public right-of-way, as assigned by Traffic Supervisor, Crew leader or Street Commissioner.

• Operates and maintains all traffic paint equipment and vehicles.
• Maintains traffic division equipment and facilities located in the public right-of-way and on City owned property.
• Performs construction, installation, and maintenance of traffic signals.
• Prepares, installs, and maintains all signage and pavement markings in the public right-of-way and on all other city owned properties.
• Sets up equipment for traffic counts and records information.
• Replaces or repairs damaged signs.
• Operates snow removal equipment on public streets. Plow vehicle designated by supervisor.
• Assists in the routine preventive maintenance activities on traffic signal controllers and related equipment in the public right-of-way.
• Provides assistance to the Traffic Signal Technician on troubleshooting and corrective maintenance on traffic signal controllers.
• Assists in traffic detours and removal of obstructions in the public right-of-way and performs other tasks as necessary to assure the safe movement of traffic.
• Assists in the development of skills among other Traffic division employees.
• Performs general maintenance and upkeep of tools, supplies and areas of the traffic division, offices and in the shop.
• Other duties as assigned by the Traffic Supervisor, Street Commissioner, Traffic Engineer, or Planning Engineer related to transportation planning, capital improvements, or ongoing maintenance needs.

• Good work record with prompt arrival and attendance.
• Ability to communicate, gets along, and work well with fellow employees.

• Must have a Commercial Driver’s License (A or
  
  B) according to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
• All new hires, transfers, and bid awards for this position must have on file, or must obtain a valid Department of Transportation physical exam card and the required drug and alcohol test (NIDA) as required by the Department of Transportation.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
• Technical continuing education preferred.
• Displays initiative in the performance of the work assignment.
• Exhibits the ability to both follow directions and make independent decisions based on his/her experience and knowledge.
• Demonstrates the ability to work with limited supervision.
• Must have knowledge of fundamentals of electricity.
• Working knowledge of how to use most hand tools and power tools.
• Exhibits reliable judgment while working in the public right-of-way with equipment that impacts pedestrian and vehicular safety.
• Knowledge of regulations and procedures governing placement of street signs and markings.
• Knowledge and ability to use marking material and equipment, sign-making and installation equipment, and traffic signal construction and maintenance equipment.
• Knowledge of traffic regulations pertaining to work zone safety and personal protective equipment, as required on a situational basis.
• Ability to maintain and repair equipment associated with traffic control.

• Incumbent is walking, bending, and operating equipment daily; does heavy lifting when performing some duties; operates various tools and equipment which require extreme concentration and considerable dexterity.

• Incumbent will be required to work outside in all kinds of weather; is exposed to potential dangers of traffic and hazards of using various tools and equipment, as well as, potential hazards of working around heavy equipment.
• May be required to work overtime and be subject to…