Traffic Calming

Term from Traffic Engineering industry explained for recruiters

Traffic calming refers to designing streets and roads in ways that naturally make drivers slow down and drive more carefully. Think of it like creating a safer neighborhood through smart road design, rather than just putting up speed limit signs. This includes things like adding curves to straight roads, building raised crosswalks, or installing roundabouts. Traffic engineers use these methods to make streets safer for everyone - drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. When you see this term on a resume, it usually means the person has experience in making neighborhoods and city streets safer through design.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented Traffic Calming measures in residential areas, reducing average speeds by 40%

Designed Traffic Calming features including speed humps and chicanes for 5 school zones

Led community engagement sessions to gather input on Traffic Calming solutions

Typical job title: "Traffic Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Transportation Engineer Road Safety Engineer Civil Engineer Urban Transportation Planner Traffic Safety Specialist Transportation Planner

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach a neighborhood-wide traffic calming project?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss gathering traffic data, community engagement, analyzing accident history, considering multiple design options, budget management, and implementing changes in phases while monitoring results.

Q: How do you balance different stakeholder needs in traffic calming projects?

Expected Answer: Should explain experience managing expectations between residents, emergency services, local businesses, and city officials, while maintaining safety standards and working within budget constraints.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What traffic calming measures would you recommend near a school?

Expected Answer: Should discuss various options like speed humps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, and explain how these work together to create a safer environment during school hours.

Q: How do you measure the success of a traffic calming project?

Expected Answer: Should mention collecting speed data before and after, crash statistics, pedestrian counts, resident feedback, and emergency response time considerations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are some common traffic calming devices?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list and explain basic measures like speed humps, speed tables, chicanes, and roundabouts, showing understanding of when each might be appropriate.

Q: Why is community input important in traffic calming projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss the importance of understanding local concerns, getting buy-in from residents, and how community feedback can improve project outcomes.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of traffic calming devices
  • Ability to read and understand traffic studies
  • Knowledge of basic road safety principles
  • Familiarity with design software

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Project management of small traffic calming projects
  • Community engagement experience
  • Data analysis and report writing
  • Design of multiple traffic calming solutions

Senior (5+ years)

  • Large-scale project management
  • Budget planning and management
  • Policy development and implementation
  • Stakeholder coordination and team leadership

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with public engagement or community meetings
  • Lack of knowledge about basic safety standards and guidelines
  • No practical experience implementing traffic calming measures
  • Unable to explain how different traffic calming measures work together