Public Works/Traffic - Signs & Pavement Marking Trainee

City-of-Hampton,-Va; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Hampton is seeking an entry-level Traffic Maintenance trainee to perform traffic control, highway signing, guardrail installs, and pavement markings. The role offers hands-on learning with a clear progression path to the Signs & Pavement Marking Technician position.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, basic tools knowledge, and a willingness to work nights, weekends, or holidays as needed. CDL-B within 180 days is required. Safety and background checks apply.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or preferred.
• Some experience in traffic operations or related work is a plus.
• Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.

Responsibilities

• Perform traffic maintenance work related to traffic control, highway signing, guardrail installation, thermoplastic pavement markings, and related equipment operation.
• Operate and maintain equipment used in traffic maintenance and safety tasks.

Skills

Traffic operations

Hand tools

Carpentry

Mechanics

Painting

Follow instructions

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Are you interested in starting a hands-on career in traffic operations and public safety? The City of Hampton is seeking an entry-level Traffic Maintenance professional to perform traffic maintenance work related to traffic control, highway signing, guardrail installation, thermoplastic pavement markings, and the operation and maintenance of related equipment.

This trainee-level position is ideal for individuals who are eager to learn, able to follow instructions, and interested in developing technical skills in a field-focused environment. The role offers a clear growth pathway, with the opportunity to advance to the Signs & Pavement Marking Technician position upon meeting qualification requirements and at the discretion of the Director of Public Works. Work may involve varying conditions and requires a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and public service.

Join the City of Hampton team! As a proud V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer and a designated Military Spouse-Friendly Employer, we are committed to supporting veterans and military spouses. We offer a welcoming and inclusive workplace, recognizing the unique skills and experiences that military families bring. Come work for Hampton, a vibrant waterfront community celebrating and embracing 400 years of history and innovation, creating an even more dynamic future! We are located in the center of the Hampton Roads region and offer lots of waterfront fun, rich and diverse history, and a vibrant restaurant scene. Hampton offers excellent benefits, career and professional development, tuition reimbursement and other benefits.

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Some experience in traffic operations preferred; general knowledge of hand tools, carpentry, mechanics or painting; ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton's criteria.
• Must possess a State of Virginia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B or obtain one within 180 days of employment. (If WAE status, CDL is preferred but not required)
• This position is safety sensitive and is subject to testing for alcohol and controlled substances in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements and the City’s current substance abuse policy.
• Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to any offer of employment or promotion.

Additional Requirements

• This is a trainee position and incumbent will be placed in the next higher-level position in Traffic Operations when the incumbent has met all of the qualification requirements of the Signs & Pavement Marking Technician position and at the discretion of the Director of Public Works.
• May require working beyond a standard 40-hour work week to include nights, weekends and holidays.
• Work conditions can be disagreeable and potentially dangerous.
• The incumbent may be considered “essential personnel” during City emergency situations or at the direction of the City Manager which may include long hours and unusual schedules.