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How much do railroad flagger jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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.

What Does a Railroad Flagger Do?

As a railroad flagger, sometimes known as a railroad flagman, you ensure the safety of crews working on or near a railroad track. During construction, repair, or maintenance projects, you stand near the railroad and signal the train operators to slow down or stop. Your exact duties vary depending on the railroad company you work for. In most positions, your responsibilities focus on working to protect construction and maintenance personnel by making sure the track is clear. You may hold a flag, activate a light or sign, or have radio contact with the train operator. You also contact special work crews by radio to obtain an all-clear signal.

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

To thrive as a Railroad Flagger, you need a solid understanding of railroad safety procedures, situational awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with railway signaling equipment, two-way radios, and sometimes OSHA or railroad safety certifications is expected. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe movement of trains and track workers, preventing accidents and maintaining operational efficiency.

What are some typical challenges a Railroad Flagger faces on the job, and how can they be managed?

Railroad Flaggers often work in dynamic environments where safety is paramount and conditions can change quickly due to weather, train schedules, or construction activities. One common challenge is maintaining clear communication with train operators and construction crews to ensure everyone is aware of track closures and safe zones. Managing fatigue during long shifts and staying alert around moving trains requires strong attention to detail and consistent adherence to safety protocols. Building teamwork and situational awareness helps Railroad Flaggers succeed and ensures smooth coordination with other crew members.

What are Railroad Flaggers?

Railroad Flaggers are workers responsible for ensuring the safety of crews, vehicles, and pedestrians near active railroad tracks, especially during construction or maintenance. They use flags, signals, and other communication tools to alert people of approaching trains and to coordinate safe crossings. Their primary role is to prevent accidents and ensure that railroad operations and nearby activities can proceed without incident. Railroad Flaggers often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and must remain vigilant at all times. They typically receive specialized training in railroad safety and signaling procedures.

What is the difference between Railroad Flagger vs Track Inspector?

AspectRailroad FlaggerTrack Inspector
CertificationsFlagger certification, OSHA safety trainingTrack safety certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, active rail linesRail yards, track inspection sites
Job FocusDirecting train movements, safety signalingInspecting track conditions, identifying hazards
Employer & IndustryRailroad companies, construction contractorsRailroad companies, maintenance firms

Railroad Flagger and Track Inspector roles both require safety certifications and work in rail environments. Flagger focus on directing train movements during construction, while Track Inspectors assess track conditions for safety. Both roles are essential for rail safety but differ in daily tasks and responsibilities.

More about Railroad Flagger jobs
What cities are hiring for Railroad Flagger jobs? Cities with the most Railroad Flagger job openings:
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Railroad Flagger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railroad Flagger job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $35,965 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Green Bay, WI
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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