Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Travel Survey • Mode Choice Analysis • Transit Oriented Development

Travel Time Study

Term from Transportation Planning industry explained for recruiters

A Travel Time Study is a way to measure how long it takes people or vehicles to get from one place to another. It helps cities and companies understand traffic patterns and plan better transportation systems. Think of it like timing a journey to see where delays happen and how to make trips faster. These studies look at different times of day, various routes, and different types of transportation (like cars, buses, or walking). The information helps planners make decisions about road improvements, traffic signals, or where to add new bus routes.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted Travel Time Study for major downtown corridor to improve traffic flow

Led team in completing Travel Time Studies across 5 major intersections

Analyzed Travel Time Study data to recommend signal timing improvements

Implemented recommendations from Travel Time Analysis to reduce commute times by 15%

Typical job title: "Transportation Planners"

Also try searching for:

Transportation Analyst Traffic Engineer Transportation Planner Traffic Planning Specialist Transportation Consultant Traffic Studies Specialist Urban Mobility Analyst

Where to Find Transportation Planners

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach a citywide travel time study?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss project planning steps like selecting study locations, choosing appropriate times, coordinating teams, ensuring data quality, and managing resources. They should mention consideration of seasonal variations and special events.

Q: How do you use travel time study results to make recommendations?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to analyze patterns, identify problem areas, and create practical solutions that consider budget constraints and community impact. Should mention experience presenting findings to stakeholders.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to collect travel time data?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain different data collection methods like GPS tracking, manual timing, automated systems, and when to use each approach. Should understand basic statistical requirements.

Q: How do you ensure accuracy in travel time studies?

Expected Answer: Should discuss multiple runs at different times, proper sample sizes, accounting for delays, and methods to validate data. Should mention ways to identify and handle unusual conditions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of a travel time study?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it helps measure how long trips take, identify congestion points, and find ways to improve traffic flow. Should understand basic concepts of data collection.

Q: What factors can affect travel time results?

Expected Answer: Should mention things like time of day, weather, accidents, special events, and seasonal changes. Should understand why these factors matter for the study.