Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Traffic Calming • Traffic Simulation • Variable Message Signs

AIMSUN

Term from Traffic Engineering industry explained for recruiters

AIMSUN is a specialized software tool that traffic engineers use to simulate and analyze traffic flow in cities and on highways. Think of it as a virtual testing ground where engineers can try out different traffic solutions before implementing them in real life. It helps predict how changes like new road layouts, traffic signals, or bus routes might affect traffic flow. This software is similar to other traffic simulation tools like VISSIM or TransModeler. Engineers use these tools to make sure their traffic management plans will work effectively before spending money on actual construction or changes.

Examples in Resumes

Created traffic flow models using AIMSUN to optimize downtown intersection timing

Led team analysis of highway expansion scenarios with AIMSUN simulations

Developed AIMSUN models to assess impact of new shopping center on local traffic patterns

Typical job title: "Traffic Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Transportation Engineer Traffic Analyst Transportation Planner Traffic Simulation Specialist Transportation Modeling Engineer Traffic Operations Engineer

Where to Find Traffic Engineers

Professional Organizations

Online Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach modeling a complex city-wide traffic system?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process of gathering traffic data, considering multiple transport modes, calibrating models, and validating results against real-world conditions. Should mention experience managing large-scale projects.

Q: Tell me about a challenging traffic simulation project you managed.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in handling complex projects, problem-solving abilities, and how they used AIMSUN to evaluate different scenarios and make recommendations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you validate your traffic simulation models?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they compare simulation results with real traffic data, make adjustments, and ensure the model accurately represents actual conditions.

Q: What factors do you consider when modeling peak hour traffic?

Expected Answer: Should discuss consideration of commuter patterns, signal timing, different vehicle types, and how they account for these in AIMSUN models.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic data do you need to start a traffic simulation?

Expected Answer: Should mention traffic counts, road geometry, signal timing plans, and peak hour factors as essential starting points for basic simulations.

Q: How do you present simulation results to non-technical stakeholders?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they translate technical data into clear visualizations and simple explanations for clients and public presentations.