Traffic Signal Technician l (Outside)

Traffic Signal Technician I (Outside)

King County's Department of Local Services (DLS) is seeking two seasoned Traffic Signal Technician I (Outside) professionalsone for a Career Service position and one for a Time-Limited Term (TLT) role. These technicians will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the city's traffic signal and street lighting systems. This multifaceted position will provide hands on work in the field, monitor/maintain signal system performance, respond to service requests and collaborate with engineers to optimize traffic flow. From repairing electronic controllers to installing poles, your work will directly impact public safety and urban mobility.

Whether you're adjusting timing plans, troubleshooting malfunctioning signals, or pouring concrete foundations for new installations, this role demands precision, problem-solving, and a commitment to excellence. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy blending technology with construction, we want to hear from you. Come work with us and help make a meaningful impact in our community!

Our commitment to equity, racial and social justice is deeply embedded in every aspect of our work. We pledge to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike.

Job Duties

Applying equity, racial, and social justice principles is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work.

• Repair and maintain wood and steel poles, energized overhead and underground cable, conduit and wiring system.
• Replace lamps, clean and adjust optical components of signal displays and inspect traffic signal hardware, wiring and cabling.
• Install wood poles, span wires, cables and conductors and electrical service equipment.
• Install underground conduit and junction boxes.
• Install structural concrete foundations for steel signal and lighting standards, signal controllers and electrical service interconnect cabinets.
• Work from heights.
• Safely operate vehicles and equipment.
• Provide traffic control measures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills

• Experience installing, maintaining, repairing, and inspecting traffic signal and street light systems.
• Skill in working with wood and steel poles, energized overhead and underground cables, conduit, and wiring systems.
• Ability to locate and identify underground utilities safely.
• Proficiency in performing preventive maintenance on traffic signals and flashers, and in maintaining accurate service and repair records.
• Knowledge of protocols and best practices for working with electrical systems and traffic control devices.
• Knowledge of electronic components and systems used in traffic signals and street lighting.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and address issues in the field with traffic control devices.
• Proficiency in the safe use of hand tools, power tools, test equipment and lifting equipment.
• Ability to repair electronic signals and small electronic equipment.
• Ability to work in a team environment and independently without direct supervision.
• Ability to work effectively with others in a work environment that embraces and encourages diversity in its workforce and where differences are valued; Demonstrates behaviors that include fairness, respect, and inclusiveness.
• Skill in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to work collaboratively with engineers and contractors and deliver professional customer service to the public.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint and other asset management software such as Cityworks.
• Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to work from heights.
• Possess traffic control knowledge and familiarity with setting up traffic control measures.
• Ability to have predictable and reliable attendance.

Additional Requirements

• Have a valid Washington State Driver's License, or the ability to obtain one prior to start date.
• Must have a Class B CDL or an ability to obtain one within 6 months.
• An offer of employment will be contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
• Ability to obtain a flaggers card within thirty (30) days of hire.

Safety Sensitive Position: This position is considered safety sensitive. Applicants for these positions are required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and subsequent to commencement of employment, will be subject to random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return to duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing in compliance with Federal DOT alcohol and controlled substance testing program protocols.

Work Environment/Physical Demands: Must be able work from heights, lift, carry, move or handle up to 50 pounds, and perform duties outdoors and in varying weather conditions. Must be able to perform duties involving physical labor including bending, kneeling, standing, reaching, climbing, stooping, squatting, pushing, and twisting. Must be able to perform work outdoors and in inclement weather.

Desired Qualifications: Maintenance Electrician Certificate. Level 1 or 2 International Municipal Signage Association (IMSA) Certification.