If a new discrete task is defined, it must be assigned to one of the three generic performance levels (also referred to as TMOT KSA Levels) of the TMOT position: entry level, full performance level, or advanced level. The discrete task should be assigned to the lowest performance level at which TMOTs should be capable of performing the discrete task satisfactorily. For example, if TMOTs at all three performance levels should be able to perform the discrete task satisfactorily, then the task is an entry level task. The determination of satisfactory performance will depend on the nature of the discrete task. When assigning the performance level for a new discrete task, consider how much training, supervision, and expertise is required to perform the discrete task. Also consider the consequences of making a mistake in the performance of a task, and consider what performance level should be able to perform the task with acceptable accuracy.
To determine the performance level of a new discrete task, first review the three performance levels and consider which performance level is most appropriate for the new discrete task based on the characteristics of the performance level. In other words, what performance level of TMOT would be capable of performing the discrete task? Consider current TMOTs at the TMC and their performance levels - who would be able to perform the discrete task? If the performance level cannot be determined in this way, try looking at the performance level of existing discrete tasks that are similar to the new discrete task, and assigning the new discrete task to the same performance level as other similar discrete tasks. If looking at similar discrete tasks does not give satisfactory guidance, examine the generic human resources KSAs (HRKSAs). The HRKSAs are broad and each HRKSA encompasses a greater range of work-related behaviors than a discrete task. Determining which HRKSA a new discrete task fits into and examining the performance levels of that HRKSA may help determine the performance level of a new discrete task.
As seen in figure 1, a function is made up of composite tasks, and composite tasks are made up of discrete tasks. Discrete tasks (e.g., "Evaluate traffic flow average speeds", "Coordinate with police officials for signal malfunctions") are specific work objectives. Typically short in duration, discrete tasks are the basic meaningful element of work performed by the TMOT.
Figure 1. Chart. Generic breakdown of functions into tasks.
KSA is an acronym for knowledge, skill, and ability. Knowledge is defined as the intellectual possession and command of the information necessary to qualify for and perform successfully in a position. An example of TMOT knowledge is "Know public policy principles including customer service, regulation, enforcement, liability, accountability, responsibility, information dissemination, controlled conduct." Skill is defined as proficiency in performing tasks such that requirements for accuracy, latency, timeliness, or quality are met consistently. An example of a TMOT skill is "Determine if data viewed is abnormal, anomalous, within or outside a range or threshold." Ability is defined as enduring intellectual, physical, and sensory capabilities necessary to successfully perform in a position. An example of a TMOT ability is "Read and interpret technical data related to computers and software."
The three generic performance levels for the TMOT position (i.e., entry level, full performance level, and advanced level) vary on several dimensions, including the amount of training, supervision, and expertise required. Understanding the differences between the performance levels may help determine the performance level of a new discrete task. Keep in mind that the discrete task should be categorized into the lowest performance level capable of performing the task.
In order to be hired, entry level TMOTs require general KSAs that are not specific to the TMC (e.g., knowledge of English grammar and usage, demonstrated success in handling stressful situations). Entry level TMOTs are not expected to have the KSAs specific to the position because entry level is considered a developmental level or trainee position. New TMOTs are expected to possess the KSAs necessary to enable the acquisition of the KSAs required to perform the job. That is, entry level employees are expected to have the KSAs necessary to successfully complete the training programs of the entry level position. Employees at this level require a high degree of supervision, guidance, direction, and training. Although entry level KSAs are not directly related to the TMOT position, new employees should possess KSAs that predict a successful advancement to the full performance level. For example, "ability to speak clearly and succinctly" is an entry level skill, and "knowledge of traffic management terminology" is full performance level knowledge.
A TMOT at the full performance level has acquired the KSAs necessary to perform in the TMOT position with a minimal level of supervision. Most of the KSAs at the full performance level are directly related to the operation of the TMC. KSAs at this level represent the basic and general KSAs that are required to perform the position with little supervision, but not any depth or expertise in a function of the TMC. For example, "demonstrated general automation skill by use of moderately complex software used in spreadsheets, word processing, database, or internet applications" would represent an entry level skill. "Skill in operating software and equipment used by a TMC" would represent a full performance level skill. "Ability to independently troubleshoot and correct minor performance problems with equipment and software" would represent an advanced level ability.
A TMOT at the advanced level has acquired expertise in a variety of TMC functions, and is expected to complete complex assignments independently. Duties of the advanced level TMOT may include training and mentoring lower-level employees, developing special event traffic plans, and recommending improvements to traffic information systems. For example, "principles of technical traffic engineering" is knowledge required at the full performance level, and is somewhat general in the context of the TMC. "Knowledge of area emergency evacuation policies and procedures" is more specific knowledge required of the advanced level TMOT.
Appendix B in the TMC Operator Requirements and Position Descriptions document contains over 1,000 TMOT discrete tasks, organized by function and composite task. Each discrete task has been assigned a performance level (i.e., a TMOT KSA level). Find the function and composite task with which the new discrete task is associated. If the function and/or composite task are also new, then find the most similar function and composite task. Then examine all of the discrete tasks under the composite task. Use the performance levels of these discrete tasks to help guide the classification of the new discrete task.
Section 6.3 of the TMC Operator Requirements and Position Descriptions document includes five tables of HRKSAs. These KSAs are grouped into generic activity groups and categorized into performance levels. The KSAs in the tables capture a broad range of work-related behaviors (or tasks). Find the activity group that is most similar to the new discrete task. Similar discrete tasks listed in Appendix B can also be used to find the appropriate activity group. The HRKSA for each discrete task is listed in the Generic HRKSA column. Within the activity group, find the KSAs that are required to perform the new discrete task (note that the KSAs increase in complexity across the three performance levels), identify the performance level to which those KSAs are assigned, and assign the new discrete task to that performance level.
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