Onsite Traffic Monitoring Operator/Traffic Management Center

AECOM is seeking Traffic Monitoring Operator based in Ankeny, Iowa. The pay rate is $22/hour.

The operator position involves working with multiple software platforms and web-based applications to carry out various tasks. Traffic Management Center (TMC) Operators are accountable for utilizing Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) software to monitor state roads and manage events/incidents; dispatching incident management personnel; addressing public inquiries, and facilitating effective communication, coordination, and collaboration with other staff, Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) personnel, and other partnering agencies.

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

The TMC in Ankeny, IA houses a 24/7/365 program that provides incident management, dispatching, and traveler information services for Iowa’s roadways. AECOM’s operations team works in shifts at the TMC facility, constantly monitoring and responding to changing traffic conditions and their effects on safety while maintaining direct communication with motorists, first responders, and IDOT staff.

The routine responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

TECHNICAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Use software and applications to control and monitor various Intelligent Transportation Systems devices located along freeways, such as surveillance cameras and dynamic message signs
• Monitor camera video and other information sources for the purpose of detecting and verifying events that impact traffic flow and safety, such as motorist assists, traffic crashes, debris removal, abandoned vehicles, stalled vehicles, maintenance activities, and construction activities
• Log potential and confirmed events that impact traffic flow and safety using software applications, including traffic lane and road shoulder closures related to construction and maintenance activity
• Dispatch and coordinate with Highway Helper Operators who provide roadside services on freeways and select roadways in several regional areas of the state
• Provide clear and accurate directions to the location of traffic events and an accurate description as advised by citizens, public safety partners, or IDOT personnel
• Monitor software-generated response plans to mitigate the effect on freeway traffic flow and update the response plans as necessary
• Monitor weather conditions for potential and observed effects on traffic flow, and take appropriate action to provide notifications to motorists and agencies about roadway conditions affected by weather
• Update information on IDOT’s traveler information website, 511ia.org
• Participate in technical and customer service training and certification activity as required by the program
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures and Standard Operating Guidelines provided by the program
• Perform routine updates of asset records, equipment, and contact lists

COMMUNICATION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform communication tasks consistent with the program’s high level of customer service expectations and training
• Dispatch and communicate with Highway Helpers using program-directed radio and phone communication protocols
• Communicate with appropriate local agencies and authorities to effectively monitor and clear traffic incidents
• Answer phone calls and provide information or assistance to motorists, IDOT personnel, or other agencies on traffic and road conditions; transfer calls to designated personnel as appropriate
• Answer phone calls and other communications from law enforcement and other agencies and coordinate assistance from DOT maintenance staff outside of business hours
• Communicate via radio/phone with law enforcement, ambulance, fire department, and towing service staff and provide clear and accurate information regarding traffic incidents and the response required
• Communicate via radio/phone with Department personnel statewide, including IDOT Maintenance and Construction personnel, IDOT management, and Federal Highway Administration staff as appropriate, to provide clear and accurate information regarding incidents, traffic, maintenance, and construction activity, and related weather conditions
• Perform written documentation of activity and communication in a clear, concise, and complete manner