Claiming that traffic controllers are an essential part of keeping Australian roads safe can be a surprising statement for many people. If all you can picture a traffic controller doing is holding the stop/slow bat, then you only know a fraction of what an experienced traffic controller does. While their primary role is to direct traffic and control traffic in construction zones or during public events, working as a traffic controller involves a lot more responsibilities. This rewarding role plays a crucial role in keeping road users safe.
The Duties of an Australian Traffic Controller
Here is a brief overview of all the responsibilities that a traffic controller job has:
- Set up, maintain, and pull down road signs to control and improve the traffic flow
- Receive and issue radio updates while coordinating with construction workers, traffic personnel, and emergency response teams
- Take instruction from supervisors, crew leaders, managers, inspectors, and other officials
- Direct traffic using traffic control devices, including the stop slow bat
- Manage unexpected events and emergencies
- Ensure the safety of all cars, cyclists, machinery, and even pedestrians (road users)
- Manage work sites set up to ensure no major disruptions to traffic flow are created
- Monitor traffic control plans to ensure temporary traffic signs and devices are working as expected
- Participate in incident investigation procedures
- Implement traffic management plans and apply relevant procedures
- Assess and effectively respond to changes in traffic volumes and weather conditions in a timely manner
- Know the required legislation, regulations, and codes relevant to traffic control and be able to apply all these rules
- Have extensive knowledge of how the environment, types of vehicles, traffic density, and other factors affect safety, and how to address these issues
- Explaining operations and addressing queries made by road users
Aspiring traffic controllers should also be prepared to work outdoors in various weather conditions for long periods, often wearing protective equipment in active road construction sites.
Who Can Become a Traffic Controller?
To become a traffic controller, you’ll need:
- To be at least 17 years old
- A White Card to work on a construction site in the construction industry
You’ll also need to complete the Traffic Controller Skillset and Traffic Management Implementer Skillset courses, which are each one day long, plus a half-day final practical training and final live assessment. After completing the traffic control training, you’ll be issued with a Statement of Completion valid for 90 days, during which you must complete your live assessment. Once that’s done, the training provider will lodge your details with SafeWork NSW to obtain your traffic controller accreditation.
One advantage is that once accredited, you don’t need to retrain if you change employers, you can work anywhere in your state as a traffic controller. If you’re looking to secure your first role, here’s a guide on how to land your first traffic controller job.
Once that’s done, the training provider will lodge your details with SafeWork NSW to obtain your traffic controller accreditation. Ready to take that first step? Our Traffic Controller course is designed to get you job-ready fast.
Skills Employers Look For
To perform duties effectively, employers often look for:
- Leadership
- Punctuality
- Communication skills
- Physical stamina
- Attention to detail
- Tolerance for outdoor work
Building these skills not only helps you succeed in your current role but also opens doors to advancement. Check out these career growth strategies for traffic controllers to see how you can progress in the industry.
Why Work As a Traffic Controller
Traffic controller jobs can present you with a lot of benefits:
- Working outdoors and frequently switching locations
- A flexible type of employment, with full-time, part-time, and seasonal job opportunities, even during public holidays
- Possibility to advance in the traffic management industry
- Helping improve the safety of Australian roads for all road users
If you’re weighing up the decision, you might find it useful to read about the pros and cons of being a traffic controller. You can also discover the top reasons to work as a traffic controller in Australia for more insight into the role.
The average hourly rate for most traffic control jobs in Australia is $40–$45, equating to $80,000–$90,000 per year. Training costs can vary depending on the provider and course type, but investing in quality training pays off in career opportunities.
Want a Career as a Traffic Controller? We Can Help!
If you want to learn how to effectively control traffic, implement traffic management plans, and work in a rewarding role that makes a difference, Upskill Institute can help. We provide several different types of traffic control training courses designed to help you build the skills you need to enter this industry successfully.
We encourage you to check out our programs and book your first class today. We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land where we work and train. Have more questions about us or our services? Feel free to reach out to our team online or call (02) 8580 2250. We now also offer an online white card course.
