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Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do independent contractor railroad flagger jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor railroad 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.

How to get hired as a flagger?

To get hired as an independent contractor railroad flagger, candidates typically need a valid flagger certification, which involves completing a state-approved training course. Employers also look for good communication skills, the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and sometimes prior construction or safety experience. Maintaining current certification and understanding railroad safety protocols are essential for employment in this role.

Is being a flagger worth it?

As an independent contractor railroad flagger, the job involves directing train and vehicle traffic at rail crossings, often requiring certification and safety training. The position offers flexible hours and can be physically demanding, with pay rates varying by region and experience. Whether it is worth it depends on individual career goals and willingness to work in outdoor, safety-sensitive environments.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger vs Railroad Traffic Controller?

AspectIndependent Contractor Railroad FlaggerRailroad Traffic Controller
CredentialsFlagging certification, safety trainingTraffic control certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on-site at rail crossings or construction zonesIndoor and outdoor, control centers or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageContracted by railroads or construction companiesEmployed by railroads or traffic management firms
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference is that Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger primarily manages safety at rail crossings during construction or maintenance, while Railroad Traffic Controllers oversee train movements and traffic flow. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in rail industry safety operations, but they focus on different aspects of rail traffic management.

What is the highest paid flagger?

The highest paid railroad flaggers are experienced professionals working in regions with high demand or during peak construction seasons, earning wages that can exceed the average due to overtime, certifications, and specialized skills. Salaries for railroad flaggers typically range from $20 to $30 per hour, with top earners making more based on experience and location. Advanced certifications and safety training can also contribute to higher pay levels.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

An Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger can potentially earn around $4,000 per week through high hourly rates and overtime, especially when working on large projects or in remote areas. These roles typically require safety training, certifications, and the ability to work outdoors in variable conditions. Earnings depend on experience, location, and the number of hours worked, with some contractors earning substantial weekly income without a formal degree.
More about Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Flagger jobs? The most popular types of Railroad Flagger jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs are:
Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Railroad Flagger job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,965 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Peoria, IL

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Peoria, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: District Manager
Travel: Yes, travel is expected for this position (50% - 85% on average).
Compensation: $25 - $37 based on experience

Job Description:

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is hiring a Railroad Flagger. This role keeps workers safe on train tracks by controlling train movements and following federal safety rules. The job supports major railroads, smaller rail lines, transit systems, state transportation projects, and contractors.

Required Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience with a Class 1 Railroad, Regional Short Line, Transit System, State DOT Rail Division, Railroad Supplier, Railroad Contractor, and/or Railroad Consultant; preferably within the Maintenance Of Way (MOW) Department.

Job Requirements:

  • Skilled with basic computer tools, including Citrix, email, phone, and texting apps
  • Comfortable using Android tablets and smartphones
  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail
  • Good verbal and written communication skills
  • Knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety
  • Able to build and maintain strong client relationships
  • Willing to travel for long periods (even months at a time)
  • Able to complete required federal, client, and company training

Job Duties:

  • Coordinate activities at the job site
  • Communicate clearly with dispatchers, train crews, railroad staff, and contractors
  • Lead safety briefings before work begins
  • Follow and enforce all railroad, state, and federal rules
  • Ensure contractors meet training requirements
  • Spot and address any rule violations
  • Complete daily reports on work activities
  • Maintain on-track safety following federal regulations

Work Environment:

  • This job operates in a field environment.
  • Must communicate clearly in English (speaking, reading, and writing)
  • Must be willing to travel or drive long distances
  • Must be able to stand for long periods and walk on uneven ground
  • Must have good vision (near, far, color, and peripheral)
  • Must handle extreme weather (hot and cold)
  • Must work in dusty and noisy environments
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Short-Term, Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

Required Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Keywords: Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer (DE), Employee In Charge (EIC), Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Foremen, Maintenance Of Way (MOW), Manager Track Maintenance (MTM), Manager Track Projects (MTP), Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge (RWIC), Roadway Worker Protection (RWP), Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, Track Supervisor.

Company Profile: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is a certified DBE/WBE firm primarily focused on providing safety services to the railroad industry. NRSS is the most trusted name in the railroad industry for providing qualified field safety staff and safety training. To best serve the railroad industry, NRSS provides all these services in the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. NRSS has the proven ability and the proven safety record to handle any project.

Safety Commitment: All employees at NRSS must always prioritize safety. No job is so urgent that it can't be done safely. Safety is a core value, ensuring the protection of workers, customers, and communities while maintaining leadership in railroad safety.

Closing Statement: National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Any candidate selected for this position must be able to successfully pass pre-employment/recurrent background checks, drug/alcohol testing, and classroom training.


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