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Construction Traffic Controller Jobs in Michigan

Theuniversityunion

Assistant City Engineer

Walker, MI · On-site

$81 - $106/hr

From managing traffic safety initiatives and roadway improvements to coordinating major capital ... Oversee public improvement projects from design through construction. * Collaborate with MDOT, Kent ...

All JobsConstruction Traffic Controller JobsConstruction Traffic Controller Jobs in Michigan

Construction Traffic Controller information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$20

$35

How much do construction traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction traffic controller in Michigan is $20.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $23.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a construction traffic controller?

Construction Traffic Controllers are professionals responsible for managing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians around construction sites to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. They use signs, signals, and barriers to direct traffic and communicate with drivers and construction workers. Their role is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining order in areas where construction activities intersect with public roads or pathways. Traffic Controllers are often required to wear high-visibility clothing and may work in various weather conditions. Training and certification are typically required, depending on local regulations.

What does a construction traffic controller do?

As a construction traffic controller, you direct the flow of vehicles to help motorists avoid road work. Your responsibilities involve protecting drivers, pedestrians, and laborers by using flags to signal potential hazards. You use barricades, flags, traffic cones, signs, and hand signals to reroute cars and enforce applicable safety regulations and speed limits. As a construction traffic controller, your duties involve standing in a work zone on a road or highway and managing a steady flow of cars and trucks, sometimes during inclement weather. You need physical stamina as well as the ability to focus for an extended period.

What are some common challenges faced by construction traffic controllers on busy job sites?

Construction Traffic Controllers often work in fast-paced, high-traffic environments where maintaining safety is critical. One of the main challenges is effectively communicating with both construction crews and the public to prevent accidents and minimize confusion. Unexpected changes in traffic flow, weather conditions, and the need to adapt quickly to new site layouts also require strong situational awareness and problem-solving skills. Building good teamwork with fellow controllers and site supervisors is essential to ensure smooth operations and compliance with safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction traffic controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Traffic Controller, you need a solid understanding of road safety regulations, hazard identification, and typically a valid traffic control certification. Familiarity with two-way radios, signage systems, and traffic management plans is essential. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure both the safety of workers and the public, as well as the smooth flow of traffic around construction sites.

What is the difference between Construction Traffic Controller vs Construction Flagger?

AspectConstruction Traffic ControllerConstruction Flagger
CertificationsRequired (e.g., traffic control certification)Typically required (e.g., flagging certification)
Work EnvironmentOn-site, directing traffic around construction zonesOn-site, primarily flagging vehicles and pedestrians
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, roadworks, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, road maintenance, utility work
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Construction Traffic Controller and a Construction Flagger is that the Traffic Controller oversees overall traffic management and may coordinate multiple flaggers, while the Flagger primarily focuses on signaling vehicles and pedestrians. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential for safety in construction zones, but Traffic Controllers often have broader responsibilities.

More about Construction Traffic Controller jobs

What are popular job titles related to Construction Traffic Controller jobs in Michigan?

For Construction Traffic Controller jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Traffic Controller jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Traffic Controller jobs in Michigan are:

Construction Traffic Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Traffic Controller job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,543 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Traffic Controller - Grand Rapids

Traffic Management, Inc

Comstock Park, MI • On-site

$19.50 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Traffic Controller - Grand Rapids

Salary Range $19.50 - $22.00 Hourly Category Traffic Controllers

Job Summary The Traffic controller will be responsible for placing, maintaining, and removing traffic control operations per the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTC

Ready to Build a Career That Invests in You? Join Traffic Management LLC, where safety comes first, teamwork matters, and your growth fuels our success. We offer a fast-paced, supportive environment with clear paths for advancement and long-term stability.

Branch Location: 844 W. River Center Dr. NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321

Sign-On Bonus Opportunity

  • $500 Sign-On Bonus after successfully completing 6 months of employment

Competitive Pay & Comprehensive Benefits

  • Starting Pay: $19.50 $22.00/hour (Based on traffic control experience and certifications)
  • No experience required start immediately
  • Weekly pay
  • Bi-annual and annual pay increases with promotion opportunities

Union Benefits Include:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Vacation Time
  • Employer-Sponsored Basic Life Insurance

Additional Benefits:

  • Supplemental Life/AD&D (Employee, Spouse & Child)
  • Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Indemnity Coverage
  • Pet Insurance
  • Member Assistance Program
  • GED Assistance
  • Take-Home Truck Incentive Available
  • Paid, on-the-job training
  • Rapid advancement opportunities
  • Supportive leadership and a strong company culture

Position Overview: Flagger / Traffic Controller

Safety is our business. In this role, you will:

  • Set up and maintain safe work zones using cones, signs, and barricades
  • Perform two-way flagging using stop/slow paddles
  • Control traffic flow to ensure public and worker safety
  • Load, deliver, and retrieve traffic control equipment
  • Complete reports and perform related duties as needed

Essential Duties

  • Respond to Dispatch Center calls in a timely manner for availability no later than 1 hour if between the hours and 8am and 5pm and no later than the next day if after 5pm.
  • Maintain contact and coordination with TMI Dispatcher on and off the job
  • Maintain all equipment in a safe and working condition
  • Perform pre-job inspection and inventory utilizing the Vehicle and Equipment Checklist (VEC)
  • Navigate safely to and from office to jobsite utilizing all aspect of the Smith Driving System to ensure safety
  • Setting up devices: cones, signs, barricades, water-filled k-rail, etc. on job site per MUTCD guidelines
  • Flagging of traffic to ensure safe work zone for TMI customers, TMI employees, and the public
  • Coordinating with customer and/or TMI dispatcher ensuring a safe, efficient and problem free service provided to TMI customers
  • Completing required paperwork, receipts, and time-sheets on or before mandatory deadlines
  • Report any and all unsafe conditions to supervisor as soon as possible
  • Ensure a safe work zone at all times for the customer and pedestrians by being attentive and refraining from being in the vehicle unless on a break

Equipment Operated

  • Vehicles (Trucks/Cars) of various sizes
  • Flatbed trucks
  • Trailer mounted warning signs
  • Cones, delineators, drums, barricades, signs and various other traffic control devices
  • Trailer

Essential Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Requires standing for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to perform full deep squat
  • Full range of motion of arms and legs
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 50lb from floor to chest level carrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires lifting and carrying of up to 25lb from floor to shoulder level carrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires using hands to handle, control or lift objects with a strong grip
  • Requires the ability to raise the arms over the shoulders to life and place objects of up to 50lbs carrying horizontally for 25ft
  • Requires stepping at least 33 inches onto tailgate of a truck
  • Requires being outside and exposed to environmental conditions
  • Requires being in construction environment
  • Requires repetitive movement
  • Requires bending at the elbows, at the knees, at the hip and bending forward
  • Exposure to work near moving mechanical parts, heavy equipment and moving vehicular traffic
  • Exposure to reasonable noise levels
  • Must be able to fulfill essential job function in a consistent state of alertness and safe manner
  • Ability to drive a vehicle in an alert and attentive manner with no conditions that may affect this
Qualifications

Requirements:

  • Must have a valid driver's license for 3 Years and a clear motor vehicle record.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • This role requires the ability to work with no fixed schedule and variable hours. Must be available during business hours and able to work nights/ weekends when on-call schedule.
  • Able to lift 50lbs and stand on your feet for 6-12 hours per day.
  • Decent Communication Skills? English proficiency required for safety coordination.
  • Must be able to pass drug test that does include THC marijuana testing.
  • Must be able to work independently and in a team.
  • Reliable transportation to and from the work location is required.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older

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