Control Room Operator

Iteris; Salem (VA); On-site; USD 26,174 - 31,684; Full time

Job summary

Iteris is seeking a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to monitor real-time traffic, manage incidents, and coordinate dispatch communications in a fast-paced operations center. You will handle CCTV, ITS, CMS, and 511 systems while delivering accurate traveler information and reporting incidents.

Ideal candidates have operational experience, strong IT skills, and the ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays in support of safety and emergency response operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in operations, dispatch, monitoring, or customer service preferred.
• Strong computer skills and ability to learn ITS and traffic systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to remain calm in real-time, high-pressure environments.
• Willingness for nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Experience in traffic operations or incident dispatch is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor traffic conditions using CCTV, ITS, sensors, and data feeds.
• Perform continuous surveillance and system monitoring.
• Detect, verify, and manage traffic incidents.
• Coordinate incident response and dispatch safety personnel.
• Operate multi-system console and manage real-time data.
• Update CMS and traveler information platforms.
• Provide real-time information to the public and stakeholders.
• Document incidents and operations for reporting.
• Coordinate with internal teams and partner agencies.
• Support emergency operations during weather events or evacuations.

Skills

Traffic monitoring

Dispatch operations

Incident management

Communication skills

Multitasking

Calm under pressure

Geographic knowledge

Emergency response coordination

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CCTV systems

CMS (Changeable Message Signs)

511 traveler info platform

ITS platforms

Windows-based applications

Job description

Iteris is looking for a Control Room Operator (Traffic Management Center) to play a critical, behind-the-scenes role, in ensuring safe and efficient travel across the transportation network. Working in a fast-paced, technology-driven operations control center, you will monitor real-time traffic and roadway conditions, manage incident response, and coordinate dispatch communications to support public safety. This is a mission-driven role where your work directly impacts highway safety, traffic flow, and emergency response operations.

What you will be doing:

• Monitor traffic conditions and roadway activity using CCTV, ITS (Intelligent Transportation Systems), sensors, and data feeds
• Perform continuous surveillance and system monitoring of transportation networks and signals
• Detect, verify, and manage traffic incidents (e.g., crashes, stalled vehicles, congestion, roadwork)
• Initiate and coordinate incident response plans to minimize disruptions and maintain safety
• Dispatch Safety Service Patrols, field technicians, and emergency responders using radio and communications systems
• Operate a multi-system console environment, managing real-time data and network systems
• Update and manage Changeable Message Signs (CMS) and traveler information platforms (e.g., 511)
• Provide accurate, real-time customer and traveler information to the public and stakeholders
• Document incidents and operational activities using reporting and operations systems for tracking and analysis
• Communicate and coordinate with internal teams, partner agencies, and external responders
• Report system issues, equipment failures, and roadway hazards to appropriate personnel
• Support emergency operations (e.g., severe weather, evacuations) and special event traffic management
• Follow established policies, procedures, and safety protocols at all times

What you need to be successful in this role:

• High school diploma or GED
• Experience in operations, dispatch, monitoring, communications, or customer service roles preferred
• Strong proficiency with computer systems and Windows-based applications
• Ability to learn and operate ITS, traffic systems, and network-based technologies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure, real-time environments
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Basic understanding of maps, roadways, and geographic navigation
• Reliable, punctual, and flexible with scheduling (including nights, weekends, and holidays)
• Willingness to serve as essential personnel during emergencies
• Experience with traffic operations, transportation systems, or roadway monitoring preferred
• Familiarity with CCTV surveillance, signals, and control systems a plus
• Background in incident management, dispatch, or emergency response a plus
• Experience working in a control center or console-based environment highly preferred

Iteris anticipates paying $19.00 for this role.

What's in it for you:

• 401(k) with immediate matching and no vesting period
• Generous Paid-Time-Off (PTO) benefits
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life insurance
• Medical reimbursement plans
• Disability coverage
• Education assistance program

Iteris, Inc. is an affirmative action and equal employment opportunity (EEO) employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender identity and expression, color, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), national origin/ancestry, religion, military/veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status or any other characteristic and group protected by applicable law. Iteris, Inc. complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure equal access to all qualified individuals with a physical or mental disability. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. A valid driver’s license may be required based on essential duties.