Traffic Impact Study
A Traffic Impact Study (TIS), sometimes called a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA), is a detailed report that shows how new construction projects like shopping centers, housing developments, or office buildings might affect traffic in the surrounding area. It's like a traffic forecast that helps cities and developers make smart decisions about road planning. Traffic engineers create these studies to predict if existing roads can handle new traffic, if new traffic lights are needed, or if roads need to be wider. This is a key skill mentioned in transportation and civil engineering job descriptions, as most new developments require this type of study before getting approved.
Examples in Resumes
Completed over 20 Traffic Impact Studies for major retail developments
Led team in conducting Traffic Impact Analysis for new downtown office complex
Performed TIS and Traffic Impact Study evaluations for residential developments
Managed Traffic Impact Assessment projects for municipal planning department
Typical job title: "Traffic Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Traffic Engineers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle disagreements with developers or city officials about traffic study findings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss diplomatic approach to presenting technical findings, ability to explain complex traffic issues in simple terms, and experience in finding compromises while maintaining professional standards.
Q: Describe a challenging traffic impact study you managed and how you resolved any issues.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate project management skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience handling complex studies with multiple stakeholders.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when determining the study area for a traffic impact analysis?
Expected Answer: Should explain considerations like project size, nearby intersections, existing traffic conditions, and local government requirements in straightforward terms.
Q: How do you determine if a development needs turning lanes or traffic signals?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic analysis methods, standard guidelines, and practical considerations for recommending traffic improvements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a traffic impact study?
Expected Answer: Should list main elements like existing conditions, trip generation, future traffic projections, and recommended improvements.
Q: How do you calculate trip generation for a new development?
Expected Answer: Should explain use of standard manuals and basic methods for estimating how many cars a new building will add to local traffic.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic traffic counting and data collection
- Understanding of traffic analysis software
- Knowledge of standard traffic engineering manuals
- Report writing and basic analysis
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex traffic analysis and modeling
- Project management of small to medium studies
- Interaction with clients and stakeholders
- Understanding of local traffic regulations
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing large-scale impact studies
- Expert witness testimony
- Team leadership and project oversight
- Complex problem-solving and recommendations
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of standard traffic engineering manuals or guidelines
- Lack of experience with traffic analysis software
- Poor understanding of basic traffic flow concepts
- No experience in data collection or field work
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
A Beginner's Guide to Implementing an Applicant Tracking System
Tiny Neighborhoods, Huge Impact: The Surprising Power of Hyper-Local SEO in Your Hiring Game
Recruitment Metrics That Matter in 2025: Moving Beyond Time-to-Hire
