Traffic Count Technician: Center for Transportation Research - UTK

Job TitleThis position supports the Center for Transportation Research (CTR) by conducting field-based transportation data collection and documentation for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) counting program. Work is performed in accordance with established TDOT procedures and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Highway Performance Monitoring System (HPMS) guidelines. Primary responsibilities include deploying and retrieving traffic-counting equipment (primarily pneumatic tube counter/classifiers), downloading and transmitting traffic volume data, performing routine equipment maintenance and inventory monitoring, and completing required logs, documentation, and data entry to support TDOT program deliverables. This position works under general supervision from both TDOT and CTR. Position holders regularly perform independent fieldwork, work year-round in a variety of weather conditions, and travel statewide with frequent overnight stays. ResponsibilitiesAADT Traffic Volume Field Data Collection Plan, schedule, and conduct traffic-count data collection across assigned Tennessee counties using TDOT technology and equipment, following TDOT, FHWA, and HPMS requirements. Travel to count locations, assess site, traffic, weather, and roadway conditions, and adjust schedules, start times, or locations to maintain safety and collect accurate data. Prepare, configure, deploy, monitor, inspect, and troubleshoot traffic counters and pneumatic tubes, documenting issues and arranging recounts when necessary. Data Processing, Quality Assurance Support, and Documentation Download, review, and assess traffic-count data each week for accuracy and quality, then upload completed files and report daily progress through TDOT's data collection application. Prepare weekly reports covering completed counts, issues, schedule changes, and the following week's work plan. Respond to TDOT Data Office requests by providing information and scheduling recounts as needed. Equipment Maintenance and Inventory Monitoring Maintain, inspect, test, and troubleshoot traffic-counting equipment to ensure accurate, continuous operations; Track equipment inventory and coordinate repairs, replacements, and supply needs with TDOT staff. Regularly inspect and maintain PPE, safety devices, and the assigned vehicle, including routine fluid and tire checks, scheduled maintenance, reporting nonroutine problems, and keeping the vehicle and equipment organized. Manual and Video Traffic Counts (as assigned) Conduct scheduled manual turning-movement counts and deploy traffic cameras using established safety and data-collection procedures. Select safe, effective observation or camera locations; Test and configure equipment for accurate coverage and records; Document site issues Submit complete count data and required documentation to the requesting office. Coordinate Activities with Others Collaborate with TDOT and CTR traffic-counting staff to coordinate work, request or provide assistance at challenging or hazardous locations, and support year-end coverage needs. Help train and mentor new technicians, share best practices, and seek guidance when handling unfamiliar field situations.