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Cta Flagger Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Track Worker

Chicago, IL

$25.97 - $39.95/hr

Must pass the CTA Third Rail Safety Training Must pass the CTA flagging qualification class in order to properly set up work site slow zones and to flag trains through a work site. Must pass the 30 ...

Track Worker

Chicago, IL

$25.97 - $39.95/hr

Must pass the CTA Third Rail Safety Training Must pass the CTA flagging qualification class in order to properly set up work site slow zones and to flag trains through a work site. Must pass the 30 ...

Flagger

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24.52 - $37.73/hr

... flagging signals. • Working knowledge of the proper set-up and operation of Slow Zones. • ... EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED • CTA cellular telephone, two-way radio, portable track ...

Flagger

Chicago, IL

$24.53 - $37.73/hr

Working knowledge of appropriate flagging signals. Working knowledge of the proper set-up and ... EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED CTA cellular telephone, two-way radio, portable track trip ...

Flagger

Chicago, IL

$24.53 - $37.73/hr

Working knowledge of appropriate flagging signals. Working knowledge of the proper set-up and ... EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED CTA cellular telephone, two-way radio, portable track trip ...

Track Worker

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.97 - $39.95/hr

... the CTA flagging qualification class in order to properly set up work site slow zones and to flag trains through a work site. • Must pass the 30/90/120 Day Trackman reviews during probationary ...

Cta Flagger information

See salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do cta flagger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cta flagger in the United States is $17.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What training is needed for CTA flaggers?

CTA flaggers typically need to complete a state-approved traffic control training course that covers safety procedures, flagging techniques, and traffic management. Certification is often required and must be renewed periodically, with some employers providing on-the-job training to ensure proper safety practices are followed.

Is being a CTA flagger a hard job?

Being a CTA flagger involves directing traffic at construction or work zones, requiring alertness, good communication skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. The job can be physically demanding and may involve long hours, but it generally does not require advanced technical skills or certifications. Safety training is typically provided to ensure proper traffic control procedures are followed.

What does CTA flagger do?

A CTA flagger is responsible for directing traffic at construction or work zones to ensure safety for workers and drivers. They use hand signals, flags, or stop/slow paddles and often wear high-visibility clothing. The role requires attention to detail, communication skills, and sometimes certification in traffic control procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by a CTA Flagger during daily operations?

CTA Flaggers often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and must stay highly alert to ensure the safety of both workers and the public near transit construction or maintenance sites. One of the main challenges is effectively managing and communicating with both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, especially during peak hours or emergencies. Additionally, maintaining clear communication with other team members and adapting quickly to changes in site conditions are crucial for a smooth workflow. These challenges require strong attention to detail, resilience, and excellent interpersonal skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CTA Flagger, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CTA Flagger, you need a solid understanding of traffic control procedures, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand signals, two-way radios, personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes a flagger certification are commonly required. Alertness, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safety of workers, pedestrians, and drivers around construction or transit sites.

How much do CTA workers make?

Cta flaggers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Many positions are seasonal or temporary, often requiring safety training and certification. Wages can vary based on the employer and project demands.

What are CTA flaggers?

CTA flaggers are workers responsible for ensuring safety around construction or maintenance zones on Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) rail lines. They use flags, signs, and signals to communicate with train operators and coordinate safe passage through work areas. Their presence helps protect both the workers on the tracks and the public by preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. CTA flaggers are trained to follow strict procedures and often work in challenging environments, especially during active train operations.

What is the difference between Cta Flagger vs Traffic Control Technician?

AspectCta FlaggerTraffic Control Technician
CertificationsFlagger certification, OSHA safety trainingFlagger certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentRoadside, construction zones, outdoorRoadside, construction zones, outdoor
Employer & IndustryConstruction, road maintenance, public worksConstruction, road maintenance, public works
Job FocusDirecting traffic, ensuring safetySetting up signs, maintaining traffic flow

Both Cta Flaggers and Traffic Control Technicians work in outdoor construction zones, requiring similar certifications and safety training. While Flaggers primarily direct traffic at specific points, Traffic Control Technicians handle broader setup and maintenance of traffic control devices. The roles often overlap, but Flaggers focus more on immediate traffic direction, whereas Technicians manage the overall traffic control setup.

More about Cta Flagger jobs
What cities are hiring for Cta Flagger jobs? Cities with the most Cta Flagger job openings:
What states have the most Cta Flagger jobs? States with the most job openings for Cta Flagger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cta Flagger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cta Flagger jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cta Flagger job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,965 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Track Worker

$25.97 - $39.95/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Chicago Transit Authority rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

527th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

SALARY

$25.97 - $39.95

POSITION SUMMARY

Performs various duties in the inspection, maintenance, repair, and construction of railroad track, also including signaling and flagging activities associated with track construction and maintenance work.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

             Performs various duties in the installation, maintenance and removal of track ties, rails, fasteners, ballast, turnouts and other track components.

             Inspects track, including ties, rail, fasteners and switches for safety defects.

             Loads and unloads work train material.

             Removes snow and ice from track, switches, walkways and other locations as required.

             Removes debris from track, switches, subway and rail yards.

             Assists in maneuvering equipment, vehicular traffic and other tools required for track repair and track construction.

             Operates rail borne track maintenance equipment as required.

             Performs flagging duties as required.

             Performs other duties associated with track maintenance and construction as required.

             Performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to this position are the following jobs:

Job Title

CHALLENGES

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

             Required to submit to and pass drug and alcohol testing as mandated by the Federal Transportation Administration for safety sensitive positions.

             Must have a high school diploma or equivalent degree.

             Must have a valid driver's license.

             Must pass the CTA math class. 

             Must pass the CTA Third Rail Safety Training

             Must pass the CTA flagging qualification class in order to properly set up work site slow zones and to flag trains through a work site.

             Must pass the 30/90/120 Day Trackman reviews during probationary period

             Must pass the CTA training class for Track Inspector.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

             Required to perform extensive lifting, carrying, and maneuvering of materials and track tools weighing up to 100 pounds.

             Must be able to perform extensive digging and spiking of track ties.

             Must be able to walk on elevated open deck track and foot walk at heights up to 60 feet above the ground. 

             Must be able to accurately swing a spike maul and sledgehammer.

             Bending, stooping, reaching, crawling, crouching, climbing, pushing, pulling and coordination to perform track repairs.

             Climbs up and down ladders and stairs.

             Walks up to six miles per day inspecting track on various track structures, including elevated open deck and uneven ground.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

             Must be knowledgeable of safety rules in order to perform work without injury.

             Must be proficient in the use of devices required for measuring track.

             Required to have knowledge of track construction and maintenance.

             Must have high school level math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, especially of fractions.

             Must be proficient in the use of all types of hand- and power-operated tools used by track crews.

             Must have the ability to communicate with other employees to assure safety while performing work.

             Must be able to work as part of team and follow directions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

             Works outdoors subject to prevailing weather, including extreme heat/cold, wind, rain and snow.

             Works various days, hours and locations.  Subject to 24-hour emergency call out.

             Works in conditions subjected to noise, vibration, dust, exhaust fumes and various odors.

             Works on open deck elevated structures (up to 60 feet high), ground level track structures and in cool, damp subways.

             Works immediately adjacent to electrically energized rail (600-volt) and associated power distribution apparatuses.

             Works on in-service track immediately adjacent to moving trains and vehicular traffic at street level.

             Works with power-operated, moving equipment.

             Exposed to chemical hazards from creosote on ties.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS UTILIZED

             Large hand tools including sledge hammers, spike mauls, pinch bars, claw bars, shovels, track wrenches, track jacks, tie tongs and rail tongs.

             Small hand tools including screw drivers, wrenches and hammers.

             Measuring devices including rulers, tape measures, gages, thermometers, string lines and compasses.

             Impact tools included drills, socket drivers, and tamping guns.

             Power-operated tools including rail saws, rail drills, chainsaws, impact guns, generators, hydraulic power packs, air compressors and man lifts.

             Cutting and burning devices including oxygen and acetylene torch and propane torch.

             Small electronic devices including handheld digital assistants and tablet PCs.

             Creosoted wood tie, plastic tie, concrete tie, steel rail, steel joint bars, steel tie plates, steel track spikes, steel screw spikes, steel track bolts and grease.


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