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Railway Flagman information

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$15

$21

$30

How much do railway flagman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for railway flagman in the United States is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Railway Flagman, you need a solid understanding of railway safety protocols, signaling procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with two-way radios, signal flags, and railway communication systems is essential for effective job performance. Attention to detail, alertness, and strong communication skills help ensure clear coordination with train crews and other workers. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety and preventing accidents in hazardous rail environments.

Do flaggers get paid weekly?

Railway flagmen, or flaggers, are typically paid on a weekly basis, depending on the employer and union agreements. Payment schedules can vary, but weekly pay is common in the transportation and construction industries. Employees may also receive additional compensation for overtime or night shifts.

What is the highest paid flagger?

The highest paid railway flagmen typically earn salaries above the national average for the role, often reaching $60,000 to $80,000 annually depending on experience, location, and union agreements. Factors such as overtime, certifications, and working in high-demand regions can also influence pay rates.

What is the difference between Railway Flagman vs Railway Signal Maintainer?

AspectRailway FlagmanRailway Signal Maintainer
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications
Work EnvironmentRailway tracks, outdoor, variable weatherSignal boxes, maintenance facilities, outdoor
Employer & Industry UsageRailway companies, track safetyRailway companies, signaling systems
Primary ResponsibilitiesFlagging trains, signaling safetyMaintaining and repairing signals and equipment

Railway Flagmen primarily focus on safety and signaling on the tracks, often working outdoors and requiring safety training. Railway Signal Maintainers handle the upkeep of signaling systems, requiring technical skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in railway safety but differ in technical complexity and daily tasks.

What does a railroad flagman do?

A railroad flagman is responsible for signaling and warning train crews and workers about track conditions, movements, and potential hazards. They use flags, lanterns, and signals to communicate instructions and ensure safety during track work or train operations, often working outdoors and requiring knowledge of safety protocols. Certification in flagging and adherence to safety regulations are essential for the role.

What is the highest paid railroad job?

The highest paid railroad jobs are typically executive and management positions, such as railroad presidents or chief operating officers, which can earn six-figure salaries. Skilled roles like locomotive engineers and signal maintainers also earn high wages, especially with experience and certifications. Overall, leadership roles in the railroad industry tend to have the highest compensation.

What are Railway Flagmen?

Railway Flagmen are safety workers responsible for protecting railroad workers, equipment, and the public near railway tracks. They use flags, signals, and other communication tools to warn train engineers and track crews about hazards, on-track work, or other obstructions. Their presence ensures that trains slow down or stop as needed, helping to prevent accidents and injuries. Flagmen also coordinate closely with train dispatchers and other railway personnel to maintain safe operations.

What are some common challenges faced by railway flagmen during daily operations?

Railway flagmen often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining constant vigilance for train movements, and effectively communicating with train crews and construction teams. Coordinating the safe passage of trains while ensuring the security of workers in designated areas can be demanding, especially during high-traffic periods or when visibility is low. Adapting quickly to schedule changes and unexpected safety hazards is a key part of the role, making attention to detail and strong communication skills essential.
More about Railway Flagman jobs
What cities are hiring for Railway Flagman jobs? Cities with the most Railway Flagman job openings:
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Railway Flagman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Railway Flagman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% Internship, 39% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 46% Physical, 18% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,964 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Railroad Flagger

Railroad Flagger

National Railroad Safety Services

Madison, WI

$25 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Railroad Flagging
Location: Madison, 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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