SYNCHRO
SYNCHRO is a widely-used software tool that helps traffic engineers plan and improve the timing of traffic lights at intersections. It's like a virtual traffic simulator that lets engineers test different scenarios before making changes on real streets. Traffic professionals use SYNCHRO to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and make sure cars flow smoothly through cities. Similar tools include Vissim and Aimsun, but SYNCHRO is known for being particularly user-friendly and good at optimizing traffic signal timing. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has experience with traffic analysis and signal coordination.
Examples in Resumes
Optimized traffic flow for 15 intersections using SYNCHRO simulation software
Conducted traffic analysis studies with SYNCHRO to reduce downtown congestion by 25%
Used SYNCHRO and SimTraffic to develop new signal timing plans for major corridors
Typical job title: "Traffic Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Traffic Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach optimizing traffic signal timing for a busy downtown corridor using SYNCHRO?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss collecting traffic data, considering peak hours, coordinating multiple intersections, and using SYNCHRO to model different scenarios while accounting for pedestrians and special events.
Q: What factors do you consider when developing a new signal timing plan?
Expected Answer: Should explain considering traffic volumes, pedestrian needs, emergency vehicle priority, coordination with adjacent signals, and how to use SYNCHRO to validate timing plans before implementation.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you validate the accuracy of a SYNCHRO model?
Expected Answer: Should discuss comparing field conditions with model results, checking traffic counts, signal timing inputs, and making adjustments based on real-world observations.
Q: Explain how you would use SYNCHRO to analyze traffic impact for a new development.
Expected Answer: Should describe gathering existing traffic data, adding projected traffic from the development, running different scenarios, and using SYNCHRO to determine necessary improvements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic data is needed to create a SYNCHRO model?
Expected Answer: Should mention traffic counts, intersection geometry, existing signal timing, peak hour factors, and basic road characteristics needed for initial modeling.
Q: How do you input basic intersection geometry in SYNCHRO?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain adding lanes, turn pockets, traffic volumes, and basic signal timing parameters into the software.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic SYNCHRO model creation
- Traffic data collection and input
- Simple intersection analysis
- Understanding of basic traffic flow concepts
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multi-intersection coordination
- Traffic impact studies
- Signal timing optimization
- Analysis result interpretation
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex corridor optimization
- City-wide signal system planning
- Training and mentoring junior staff
- Advanced modeling scenarios
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with traffic data collection
- Lack of understanding of basic traffic flow principles
- Unable to explain signal timing concepts
- No experience with field verification of models
Related Terms
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