Traffic Control Flagger
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Set up and remove traffic control devices such as signs, cones, and barricades
- Direct vehicle flow using approved hand signals and stop slow paddles
- Help pedestrians and cyclists move safely through or around the work zone
- Coordinate with crew leads, equipment operators, and other flaggers to time traffic releases
- Watch for hazards such as speeding vehicles, poor visibility, and changing site conditions
- Maintain safe distances and clear escape paths at all times
- Report unsafe behavior and near misses to the site supervisor
- Follow required safety rules for high visibility gear and protective equipment
- Document basic details such as shift times, locations, and any incidents when needed
Top Skills for Success
Situational Awareness
Clear Communication
Reliability
Attention to Detail
Calm Under Pressure
Customer Service Mindset
Traffic Control Setup
Flagging Procedures
Work Zone Safety
Radio Communication
Basic Incident Reporting
Personal Protective Equipment Use
OSHA Safety Knowledge
Local Traffic Control Standards
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Senior Flagger
Traffic Control Lead
Traffic Control Supervisor
Work Zone Safety Technician
Transition Opportunities
Construction Laborer
Road Maintenance Worker
Utility Field Technician
Equipment Operator Trainee
Site Safety Coordinator
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Traffic Control Plan ReadingConflict De escalationFirst AidHeat Stress SafetyCold Weather SafetyFatigue ManagementDocumented Incident Reporting
Development SuggestionsComplete a recognized flagger certification for your area, practice radio callouts and standard hand signals, and ask to shadow a traffic control lead to learn setup layouts. Add First Aid training and focus on managing fatigue and extreme weather readiness to improve safety and reliability.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry Level30000 to 40000 per year
Mid Level38000 to 52000 per year
Senior Level48000 to 65000 per year
Growth Trend
Steady demand, tied to road construction, utility work, and public infrastructure projects. Hiring can be seasonal in some regions and increases after storms and major repair needs.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
AWP SafetyACRT ServicesIntegrity TrafficAnsco and AssociatesKiewitGranite ConstructionVulcan Materials CompanyMasTec
Industry Sectors
Traffic Control ServicesRoad and Highway ConstructionUtility ConstructionTelecommunications ConstructionMunicipal Public WorksEvent and Venue Operations
Recommended Next Steps
1
Earn a state approved flagger certification or an ATSSA based course if recognized locally2
Build a simple checklist for setup, shift handoff, and hazard reporting3
Practice clear, consistent hand signals and radio messages4
Ask for cross training on sign placement and traffic control device layout5
Add First Aid training and refresh personal protective equipment standards6
Track your hours and sites to support promotion into lead roles