Job Introduction
The starting salary for this role is £38,090 per annum, working 36 hours per week.
We have an exciting opportunity for a curious, analytical and technically minded individual who is eager to develop their expertise. If you enjoy understanding how systems work, asking questions and improving real-world outcomes for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, buses and other vehicles, this role will suit you well.
Our Offer to You
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26 days’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years’ service
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Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
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A generous local government salary related pension
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Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
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Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
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An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
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Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
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Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
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A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents
About the Team
The Traffic Operations team of Surrey County Council work together to ensure traffic flow is managed – delivering reliable and efficient low-carbon journeys through effective maintenance, innovative design and technology. Using smart data to manage congestion to the benefit of people travelling on the road network, while mitigating the impact of events and incidents that occur on Surrey roads.
Within this, the Network Optimisation Team is a newly formed and forward-thinking team with a clear mission to analyse, validate and optimise how our traffic signals operate across the county. The team delivers an annual programme of signal validation and optimisation and develops strategic traffic signal responses to both planned roadworks and unplanned incidents, helping Surrey’s road network perform at its best in all conditions.
About The Role
As an Assistant Engineer, you will bring a working knowledge of traffic signal control principles and a willingness to develop this further in practice. You will be supported by experienced colleagues and be expected to demonstrate the Surrey Way behaviours of being collaborative, inclusive, dynamic and ambitious. You will work as part of a small, focused team of three engineers while also contributing to a wider project team of contractors and consultants, collaborating closely with colleagues across the Traffic Operations Team and stakeholders within the Place Directorate.
With training and guidance, you will support the review and validation of traffic signal operations, contribute to the development of signal timings and control strategies, and assist in designing and implementing optimised solutions for everyday use, roadworks and incidents. Your role will include undertaking site observations, supporting design work using AutoCAD and other software, assisting with implementation and commissioning activities, and managing elements of project delivery from initial development through to stakeholder engagement and documentation. This role offers the opportunity to build hands-on experience in traffic signal optimisation while developing a strong technical understanding of live network operations.
If you enjoy understanding how systems work, asking questions, and improving real‑world outcomes for all road users, whether they are pedestrians, cyclists, buses and other vehicles, this role will suit you well.
Shortlisting Criteria
In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our behaviours:
Understanding Signals
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An awareness of current intelligent transport systems (ITS) including strategic control concepts, relevant standards, specifications, regulations and hardware & software applications.
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An appreciation of how traffic signals are validated and optimised, with a willingness to develop these skills further through training and experience.
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Experience in assisting in the design and/or delivery of highway or traffic signal schemes.
Project Delivery
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A working knowledge of CAD design software packages such as AutoCAD.
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Knowledge of the basic principles of traffic signal design and operation, including an understanding of how signals function to manage traffic and pedestrian movements.
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The ability to contribute to project delivery, including to timescales and budget, with minimal supervision.
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Experience of working with contractors and/or consultants, with clear communication skills to support effective service delivery and stakeholder engagement.
Innovation and Mindset
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Evidence of a problem-solving approach, with the ability to identify issues and contribute practical ideas and solutions.
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An open minded and positive approach to learning, including a willingness to embrace new ideas, methods and technologies.
Qualification and Experience
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Relevant Level 4 qualification (e.g. HNC/CertHE) or relevant equivalent experience.
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A full, valid driving licence would be an advantage for traveling to our various Traffic Signals across the County.
Your Application
To apply, we request that you submit a CV and a personal statement as to why you should be considered for this role.
The job advert closes at 23:59 on 28/06/2026, with interviews to follow.
Contact Us
Please contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills or any barriers to employment. Please contact Trung Nguyen via email at [email protected].
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two-tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. If you are employed by Surrey on 1st April 2027, your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of the new organisations, supporting local devolution and greater powers for our communities.
Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents! Please see more information here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation - Surrey County Council
Our Commitment
We are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum criteria, we guarantee you an interview.
Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we’re committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.
