Where the jobs are: Traffic technicians

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (KABC) -- This economy has put the squeeze on people looking for work. But despite layoffs and downsizing, some employers are actually looking to fill certain positions. In one area of public works, the demand for jobs is strong.

How many of us when we're driving or when we're walking ever notice the tall, gray boxes that stand near busy intersections? Sure, they're boring and not much to look at -- until you open one up.

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Inside are wires and circuits that keep traffic signals signaling. The City of Inglewood alone has 2,500 traffic lights, and not enough technicians to take care of them.

"As L.A. expands, traffic is going to expand too," said Harry Frisby Jr. from the Inglewood Public Works Department. "We all see it when we come to work every morning. So yes, we do need the bodies to help get these jobs done."

Frisby is the public works superintendant for the city of Inglewood. He has four positions open right now -- a traffic systems supervisor, a traffic systems technician and two traffic system workers.

"The supervisor goes up to $6,100 per month," said Frisby. "The entry level positions, I believe they top out around $3,500 per month."

The demand for traffic tech jobs is so strong Long Beach City College has built its own mock intersection. Students learn in a hands-on environment.

"Our enrollment is packed," said Long Beach City College Instructor Scott Fraser. "Every single one of our classes is packed. We get calls for people all the time, and we don't have enough students to send them."

"Anything having to do with public works, or infrastructure - whether that be Caltrans, MTA - there's a lot of interest," said Long Beach City College President Eloy Oakey.

So the next time you drive by one of those gray boxes, look at it with wonder -- because it's keeping more than just the traffic lights working.

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