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Railroad Flagger Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Railroad Flagger information

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$8

$15

$20

How much do railroad flagger jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for railroad flagger in Michigan is $15.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a railroad flagger?

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 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 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.

How much do entry level railroad flaggers make?

Entry-level railroad flaggers typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on the location and employer. They often need to complete safety training and certification, and work outdoors in various weather conditions. Starting pay can increase with experience and additional skills.

How to become a railroad flagger?

To become a railroad flagger, candidates typically need to be at least 18 years old, pass a drug test, and complete a flagger training program approved by the Federal Railroad Administration or relevant authorities. Certification often involves classroom instruction and on-the-job training to learn safety protocols, signaling, and communication skills required for directing train traffic and ensuring safety around railway construction or maintenance sites.

What are the most commonly searched types of Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan?

For Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Railroad Flagger jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Railroad Flagger jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Railroad Flagger job openings:

Infographic showing various Railroad Flagger job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,347 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Traffic Controller - Grand Rapids

Traffic Management LLC

Comstock Park, MI • On-site

$19.50 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

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

D)
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)
    • Inspect vehicle to ensure safe operation prior to operating (oil, tire air pressure, etc.) and report any concerns to your supervisor or the dispatcher
    • Inventory and inspect equipment needed for job
    • Load all required equipment into vehicle
  • 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

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