Chris Betty – Area Traffic Engineer
Sedgemoor Area Highways Office, Traffic Management Group
What does your job involve?
I'm a Traffic Engineer based at a local Area Highway Maintenance Office. My role includes dealing with any traffic related enquiries received within the Sedgemoor area. I receive requests for a range of things from traffic calming and speed reduction to hazard warning signs and disabled bay requests.
In addition to dealing direct with members of the public I have a close working relationship with County and District Councillors, Parish Councils, the Police and other bodies.
What skills and qualifications do you need to do your job?
You need to have a wide range of skills in order to answer the many diverse enquiries. An understanding of highway design and construction is required, along with a good knowledge of the legal responsibilities and duties of the Authority.
As well as some technical experience, it's also important to have good people skills and an innovative approach to problem solving. Most important is to take pride in what you are giving back to all those that live, work and visit the local area.
How long have you been doing your job?
I have been undertaking this role since June 2006.
What did you do before this?
I started working for Somerset County Council straight from school, working for the Road Construction Unit when the M5 was still under construction. Somerset County Council has taken me through an HNC in Civil Engineering and allowed me to gain experience in various other departments, including the Area Surveyors. I also worked for a short period for WS Atkins and was involved in the production of the Local Transport Plan for Somerset and consultation leading up to it.
What's the best thing about your job?
Understanding other people's highway related problems and being able to give something back to affect their lives.
Which aspects of your job do you find the most challenging?
Dealing with problems in a creative and effective manner within the ever-changing criteria, standards and policies that we adhere to.
Do you have any career aspirations for the future?
All the skills I have acquired over my career seem to have been tailored to allow me to enjoy what I do for a living – why change?!
What would you say to someone who was considering working for the County Council?
If you join the Traffic Management Team you will be working with a friendly, professional and happy team, you will learn a variety of skills and although challenging you are often rewarded by where you work and what you get out of your job.
