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Construction Traffic Controller Jobs in Washington

Traffic Control Flagger

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to the Foreman, you will direct traffic through construction zones using handheld signs ... It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled ...

Traffic Control Flagger

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Reporting to the Foreman, you will direct traffic through construction zones using handheld signs ... It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$111K - $189K/yr

Develop concept level to final design traffic control device plans for construction/advertisement ... Controllers (ATC) including the development of a Concept of Operations * Experience with traffic ...

Lead Traffic Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$111K - $189K/yr

Develop concept level to final design traffic control device plans for construction/advertisement ... Controllers (ATC) including the development of a Concept of Operations * Experience with traffic ...

Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead

Vienna, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ... In addition, you will see that all work is planned, organized, controlled and evaluated through ...

Mid-Atlantic Traffic Engineering Lead

Vienna, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental ... In addition, you will see that all work is planned, organized, controlled and evaluated through ...

Fay, S&B USA Construction builds complex infrastructure across the Mid-Atlantic such as major ... Working over and adjacent to railroads, vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and marine environments.

Fay, S&B USA Construction builds complex infrastructure across the Mid-Atlantic such as major ... Working over and adjacent to railroads, vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and marine environments.

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Construction Traffic Controller information

See Washington salary details

$14

$26

$46

How much do construction traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction traffic controller in Washington is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $31.06 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.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Construction Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Construction Traffic Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Construction Traffic Controller job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,282 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Multiple Openings - Traffic Control Flagger / Technician / Supervisor

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Davis H. Elliot rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. (Elliot).

Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating and industrial/commercial services.

Key Responsibilities

  • Self-Motivated: Maintain organized, clean and safe work environment. Demonstrate dependability regarding attendance and punctuality.
  • Traffic Management: Traffic controllers are responsible for directing the flow of traffic, ensuring that vehicles move smoothly and safely. They may use hand signals, flags, cones, or electronic devices like traffic lights to regulate traffic.
  • Safety: Ensuring the safety of all road users, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and construction workers, is a top priority. Traffic controllers must be vigilant and take immediate action to prevent accidents and hazards.
  • Communication: Effectively communicate with drivers and pedestrians through hand signals, verbal instructions, or electronic message boards. Clear and concise communication is essential to convey directions and warnings.
  • Sign Placement: Set up and maintain road signs, barricades, cones, and other traffic control devices to guide drivers and pedestrians. Ensure that these signs are properly placed and visible.
  • Traffic Flow Coordination: Coordinate traffic flow during events, construction, or emergencies. Implement detours and alternate routes as necessary to minimize disruptions.
  • Construction Zones: In construction areas, traffic controllers help manage traffic patterns, detours, and lane closures. They ensure that workers are protected and that traffic flows as smoothly as possible.
  • Pedestrian Safety: Safeguard pedestrians by directing them to designated crosswalks, controlling traffic when they are crossing, and providing assistance to individuals with mobility challenges.

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Record Keeping: Proficient in Microsoft Office, specifically Microsoft Excel. Maintain records of traffic incidents, accidents, and any unusual occurrences. This documentation may be important for future reference and analysis.
  • Training: Traffic controllers may receive training in safety procedures, first aid, and proper traffic control techniques to ensure they can effectively perform their duties.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain traffic control equipment, such as signs, cones, and barriers, to ensure they are in good working condition.
  • Stay Informed: Stay informed about local traffic regulations, road closures, and any special events or conditions that may affect traffic. This information is crucial for making informed decisions while managing traffic.
  • Calm and Professional Demeanor: Maintain a calm and professional demeanor, even in high-stress situations. This helps instill confidence in drivers and pedestrians and promotes a safe traffic environment.
  • Adaptability: Be adaptable and able to make quick decisions based on changing traffic conditions or emergencies.

Qualifications

  • Able to pass pre-employment drug screen and Background check
  • Employee must either hold an ATTSA flagger/technician/supervisor certification or be willing to take test immediately
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to work
  • Have reliable communication to receive work schedule
  • Be able to work in all weather conditions and tolerate varying climates of heat, cold, and rain
  • Be able to stand throughout your entire shift, hand and arm movement is required
  • Be able to lift 50 pounds
  • Traffic control experience recommended.

Benefits/Culture

Today, we are listed among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our customers' confidence in us; the loyalty, hard work and performance of our people; and the traditions with which Mr. Davis H. Elliot began the company in 1946. We understand that having the best team requires people being treated like family. Some of the benefits we offer our team includes:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance w/ additional Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program
  • State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program 
  • Paid Vacation 
  • Servant Leadership Training
  • Uniforms and PPE provided

What Davis H. Elliot employees say

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