1

Traffic Control Aide Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Traffic Control Aide information

See Washington salary details

$28.9K

$104.7K

$206.1K

How much do traffic control aide jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for traffic control aide in Washington is $104,717.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,100.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traffic control aide?

Traffic Control Aides are professionals responsible for directing and managing the flow of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, especially in areas affected by construction, accidents, or large public events. They help ensure safety by setting up cones, signage, and barricades, and by providing clear directions to drivers and pedestrians. Traffic Control Aides often work outdoors and may be employed by city governments, private contractors, or event organizers. Their role is crucial for preventing accidents and minimizing traffic disruptions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a traffic control aide?

To thrive as a Traffic Control Aide, you need a solid understanding of traffic laws, situational awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with two-way radios, handheld stop signs, and sometimes basic traffic management software is necessary. Strong communication skills, alertness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you coordinate effectively and ensure safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe and efficient traffic flow, especially in high-stress environments.

What are some common challenges faced by traffic control aides, and how can they effectively handle them?

Traffic Control Aides often encounter challenges such as managing impatient drivers, adapting to rapidly changing traffic conditions, and working in various weather environments. Effective communication, staying alert, and maintaining a calm demeanor are essential for addressing these challenges. Building familiarity with traffic patterns and collaborating closely with law enforcement or construction teams can also help Traffic Control Aides respond quickly and safely to any unexpected situations that arise.

What is the difference between Traffic Control Aide vs Flagger?

AspectTraffic Control AideFlagger
Required CertificationsTraffic Control Certification, sometimes OSHA safety trainingFlagger Certification, OSHA safety training often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roadwork zones, public eventsRoadside, construction zones, traffic management areas
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, public works departmentsContractors, transportation agencies, public works
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level traffic safety rolesSpecialized traffic control role, similar duties

Both Traffic Control Aides and Flaggers work in traffic management within construction and roadwork zones. While their roles are similar, Traffic Control Aides may have broader responsibilities, including assisting with setup and directing traffic, whereas Flaggers primarily focus on controlling traffic flow using flags or stop/slow paddles. Certifications and work environments overlap significantly, making them closely related roles in traffic safety and management.

Do traffic control aides get paid weekly?

Traffic control aides are typically paid on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on the employer and location. Payment schedules can vary, so it is advisable to confirm with the specific employer or agency during the hiring process.

How do I become a traffic control aide?

To become a traffic control aide, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, complete a traffic control training course, and obtain any required certification such as a flagger certification. Some positions may also require a valid driver's license and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Is traffic control a stressful job?

Traffic control aides often work in outdoor environments with changing weather conditions and must remain alert to ensure safety. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, but stress levels vary depending on traffic volume and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Traffic Control jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Traffic Control jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Traffic Control Aide jobs in Washington?

For Traffic Control Aide jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Traffic Control Aide jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Traffic Control Aide jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Traffic Control Aide jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Traffic Control Aide job openings:

Infographic showing various Traffic Control Aide job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,717 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

$51K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Public Safety Aide (Civilian)

$51,094 - $86,860

Onsite

Open until filled

The City of Falls Church is recruiting for a permanent, full-time (40 hours per week) Public Safety Aide. Public Safety Aides are unarmed, civilian Police Department employees with no arrest powers who are primarily tasked with parking enforcement and school crossing duties.

The Falls Church Police Department is seeking dynamic and goal-driven employees who are motivated to take on challenges, are passionate about making a difference in their community, and focused on achieving our mission: to ensure the highest quality of public safety services with the utmost regard for the sanctity of life through integrity and respect for human rights, the Constitution of the United States, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and its laws.

The successful candidate will be responsible for working shiftwork of intermediate difficulty in performing paraprofessional and technical duties within the Police Department. 
Responsibilities

The Public Safety Aide is primarily responsible for traffic safety, customer service, parking enforcement, and school crossing duties. Specific responsibilities include:

·       Issuing tickets to vehicles violating City and/or state laws, which may include diffusing tense interactions with members of the public while enforcing parking regulations.

  • Ensuring safe, clear, and lawful passage for public school students and regulating vehicular traffic at designated school crossings during arrival and dismissal times; Assisting bus drivers, parents, vehicle operators, police, and school staff to ensure a safe and orderly school ingress and egress process; and taking appropriate action with drivers or pedestrians who fail to cooperate and reports such action as required.
  • Assisting sworn public safety officers with traffic control at special events and crash scenes; transporting, deploying and retrieving traffic cones and portable traffic signs in designated areas; coordinating vehicle impoundment and release; and reporting traffic hazards or violators to the Police Department.
  • Operating an assigned motor vehicle, with or without towing equipment trailer, and walking several blocks at a time.
  • Bending, lifting, carrying, and deploying portable traffic signs or traffic cones (weighing 40 pounds or more) along the roadway.
  • Working outdoors in all types of weather for extended periods.
  • Attending meetings, giving statements, providing reports, and appearing/testifying in traffic court as necessary.
  • Performing miscellaneous Police Department or City Government duties, such as assisting with security and customer support functions at City facilities.
  • Capturing accurate citations and summons data when writing tickets and reports.
  • Utilizing public safety communication equipment, including radios.
  • Exercising considerable independent judgment and initiative.
  • Performing related tasks as required.

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • High School Diploma or GED; vocational school or additional higher education preferred.
  • Must be a United States citizen or be a permanent U.S. resident who is eligible and in the process of acquiring U.S. citizenship.
  • Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s license with at least one year of driving experience. (Note: Applicant’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle must not be suspended or revoked at the time of appointment, must have no “Driving Under the Influence” convictions three years previous to the date of applicant’s date of appointment, must have no Reckless Driving convictions three years previous to the date of applicant’s date of appointment, and or no negative driving points higher than four points on the applicant’s driving record from any state maintaining a driver’s license record of the applicant prior to the date of appointment of the applicant.)
  • Be of good moral character and have never been convicted of a felony; or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, perjury, or false statement.
  • Successfully complete a background investigation.
  • Pass a physical exam, including testing for the presence of unlawful drugs.
  • Must have the ability to obtain Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) State Operator Certification.  
  • Be able to successfully complete the Public Safety Aide training and certifications and maintain all requirements for the Public Safety Aide position.
  • Have at least one (1) year of experience working with the public (preferred).

Special Requirements
The Falls Church Police Department maintains the highest standards in the selection of personnel who will represent the City of Falls Church. Applicants should be aware of the following special requirements before attempting to qualify for the Public Safety Aide position:

  • Must successfully complete a Character/Background Assessment. Individual situations will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis; however, a favorable driving record and a clean criminal history are essential. The Police Department retains the right to reject any applicant for any arrest and/or conviction that occurred at any age (unless the arrest or criminal charge against them has been expunged, pursuant to Virginia Code § 15.2-1705). 
  • Must give complete and truthful statements throughout the entire selection process.
  • Have never engaged in any activity that would support a felony conviction. 
  • Have no convictions or charges pending for misdemeanor crimes relating to theft, domestic violence, assault, crimes of moral turpitude (such as lying under oath or falsifying official documents), any crime requiring registration on the Sex Offender Registry at any age, or any crime which carries a penalty of prohibiting the ownership of, possession, or control of a firearm.  
  • Have no associations with or support in any fashion any criminal gang, extremist-racist, Anti-Semitic group, or any group that has stated a desire to overthrow the United States Government.  
  • Any previous  D.U.I. or D.W.I convictions will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Multiple convictions for speeding and other moving violations will be reviewed in similar fashion.  
  • Substance Use:
    • Prior use if illicit substance will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
    • No use of marijuana from the date of application, regardless of location use (includes states/counties where usage may be legal).  


Salary & Benefits
The position salary starts at $51,094 effective July 1, 2026. This position includes comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, pension plan, deferred compensation plan, flexible spending account, college savings plan, life and long-term disability insurance, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, free parking, credit union membership, and more. Learn more about our benefits at www.fallschurchva.gov/benefits 

Please direct questions regarding this position to FCPDhiring@fallschurchva.gov

Our commitment to an inclusive workplace: The City of Falls Church is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives curiosity, innovation, and the success of our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the federal, state and/or local laws or regulations. Accommodations may be requested for applicants with disabilities.  To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at HRTeam@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5127.  Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

All City facilities are smoke free.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME