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Union Flagging Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$23.51 - $28.82/hr

... Flagging traffic through a work site, Lane Closures to divert traffic, or Detouring traffic to ... Union membership is required (enrollment facilitation available). The Traffic Control Technician ...

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Union Flagging information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do union flagging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for union flagging in California is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a union flagger?

Union flaggers are workers who are responsible for directing and controlling traffic around construction sites, roadworks, or other areas where movement needs to be safely managed. They are members of a labor union, which helps ensure fair wages, safer working conditions, and job protections. Union flaggers use flags, signs, and hand signals to communicate with drivers and protect both workers and the public. Their training typically covers state and federal safety regulations, proper flagging techniques, and emergency procedures.

What are some common challenges union flaggers face on the job, and how do teams typically address them?

Union flaggers often encounter challenges such as managing traffic flow in unpredictable weather conditions, ensuring clear communication with construction crews, and maintaining safety for both workers and drivers. Teams typically address these issues through thorough safety training, the use of radios or hand signals for effective communication, and regular safety meetings to review protocols. Adapting quickly to changing environments and collaborating closely with other crew members are essential skills for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a union flagging professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Flagging professional, you need a solid understanding of traffic control procedures, safety regulations, and often a valid flagger certification. Familiarity with tools such as stop/slow paddles, two-way radios, and sometimes electronic flagging devices is required. Strong communication, alertness, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for maintaining safety and coordinating with construction crews. These skills and qualifications are vital to protect workers and the public, ensuring smooth and secure operations in construction zones.

What is the difference between Union Flagging vs Signal Technician?

AspectUnion FlaggingSignal Technician
Required CredentialsTypically OSHA safety training, flagging certificationSignal system certifications, electrical training
Work EnvironmentRoadside, construction zones, outdoorRailway yards, transit systems, outdoor/indoor
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, transportation, public worksRailroads, transit authorities, infrastructure
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Union Flagging primarily involves directing traffic and ensuring safety at construction sites or roadways, requiring flagging certifications. Signal Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing railway or transit signaling systems, requiring electrical and signal system certifications. While both roles work outdoors and in transportation-related environments, they serve different functions within the industry.

What job categories do people searching Union Flagging jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Union Flagging jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Union Flagging jobs? Cities in California with the most Union Flagging job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Flagging job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,494 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Construction Safety Flagperson

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

San Diego, CA • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


San Diego Metropolitan Transit System rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 97 rated public transport


Job description

Are you ready to start your career at MTS?
Please review before applying:
Flagpersons (Construction Safety) are hired as part-time, temporary employees in support of a 24/7 transit operation. This role requires full schedule flexibility, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments. Hours are not guaranteed and may vary based on operational needs.
Work is performed outdoors and can be physically demanding. This role is best suited for individuals who are dependable, flexible, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, safety-sensitive environment.
The Construction Safety Flagperson position is a great way to get your foot in the door at MTS. Many of our top Flagpersons are promoted into Train Operator and other full-time positions, or transition into other roles within the organization.
Application Review: Applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Interviews are typically conducted on a weekly basis.

Position Summary:
Under direction of the Assignments Supervisor, the Flagperson (Construction Safety) protects personnel and equipment while working on or near the tracks. The Flagperson (Construction Safety) uses various types of equipment, such as flags, whistles, discs, lights and two-way radios to ensure the safe passage of trains. The Flagperson (Construction Safety) duties primarily consist of three assignments, Switch Tender, Watchperson and Flagperson (Construction Safety). The Switch Tender manipulates switches and signals train operators when proper switch alignment is provided. The Watchperson is charged with monitoring approaching trains and alerting work crews to clear the track of personnel and equipment. The Flagperson (Construction Safety) conducts job safety briefings prior to work commencement and in the case of changing work conditions, monitors approaching trains, alerts work crews to clear the track of personnel and equipment and signals the train operator when the tracks are clear.
What will you do:
Essential Functions
  • Conducts job briefings prior to work activity and conducts follow-up briefings any time new workers enter the job site, or if there is a change in working conditions or procedures.
  • Monitors approaching trains and alerts work crews to clear the track of personnel and equipment.
  • Signals train traffic to stop, reduce speed or proceed cautiously. Signals train operators when tracks are safe and clear for the train to proceed.
  • Mounts discs to poles and secures disc with bungee cords.
  • Manipulates switches which allow trains to move onto another track.
  • Communicates with a hand-held two-way radio.
  • Uses various types of equipment, such as flags, whistles, discs, lights and radios to ensure the safe passage of trains.
  • Washes non-revenue vehicles on a weekly basis.
  • Performs other tasks as may be assigned.

What we are looking for in a candidate:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations; ability to read, understand and apply written instructions, MTS policies, regulations and union labor contracts; ability to write letters, memoranda, and reports using clear, concise and grammatically correct English; ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy; ability to maintain and successfully complete assignments without detailed instructions; strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to multi-task; skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports; ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities to appropriate personnel; ability to establish and maintain priorities; ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal and emergency situations; ability to stand for long periods of time; must have a flexible schedule and be available to work on days, nights, weekends and holidays.
Physical Requirements
  • The successful candidate must be able to fulfill the physical demands of the job such as walking, climbing stairs, stooping, sitting, bending, reaching overhead and lifting (must be able to lift 50 pounds unaided).
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, often on uneven ground, and work outdoors in inclement weather conditions.
  • Must be able to carry an equipment bag, mount discs to poles, wave flags, throw switches and wear black or dark brown work boots with closed toes.
  • Must be able to perform tasks involving manual dexterity such as use of a computer and 10-key.
  • Work may at times require more than 8 hours per day, travel, variable shifts, or require irregular hours to perform the essential duties of the position.
  • Must have good eyesight and the ability to maintain constant alertness under tedious circumstances.
  • Duties will be performed primarily in an outdoor environment.

Experience/Education/Certificates/License(s)
  • Must successfully complete the SDTI Roadway Worker Certification Course and annual recertification sessions.

GENERAL:
  • Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations including, but not limited to, a pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check.

Hourly Pay: $23.61
MTS offers competitive benefits including, but not limited to, medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, paid time off, retirement plans, and wellness programs.
Additional perks and benefits include:
  • Incremental pay increases
  • Employer-paid holidays
  • Employer-paid DMV licensing (if additional licensing is required for the position)
  • Free transit pass for you and your family
  • Gym membership reimbursement
  • Walk, run, and bike event reimbursement
  • Employer-paid bereavement leave and jury duty
  • Employer-paid uniforms
  • And much more!

DISCLAIMER: The above described job elements are intended to indicate the general nature and levels of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required of employees so classified. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
EEO is The Law - Equal Employer Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled
MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.
MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.
MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations; ability to read, understand and apply written instructions, MTS policies, regulations and union labor contracts; ability to write letters, memoranda, and reports using clear, concise and grammatically correct English; ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy; ability to maintain and successfully complete assignments without detailed instructions; strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to multi-task; skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports; ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities to appropriate personnel; ability to establish and maintain priorities; ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal and emergency situations; ability to stand for long periods of time; must have a flexible schedule and be available to work on days, nights, weekends and holidays.
Physical Requirements
The successful candidate must be able to fulfill the physical demands of the job such as walking, climbing stairs, stooping, sitting, bending, reaching overhead and lifting (must be able to lift 50 pounds unaided). Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, often on uneven ground, and work outdoors in inclement weather conditions. Must be able to carry an equipment bag, mount discs to poles, wave flags, throw switches and wear black or dark brown work boots with closed toes. Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and perform tasks involving manual dexterity such as use of a computer and 10-key. Work may at times require more than 8 hours per day, travel, variable shifts, or require irregular hours to perform the essential duties of the position. Must have good eyesight and the ability to maintain constant alertness under tedious circumstances. Duties will be performed primarily in an outdoor environment.
Experience/Education/Certificates/License(s)
Must successfully complete the SDTI Roadway Worker Certification Course and annual recertification sessions.
GENERAL:
Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations including, but not limited to, a pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check.
SALARY GRADE:
$11.28 per hour
H-6:
If you are applying for a position with MTS Bus or Rail that requires a copy of your DMV driving record (H-6) printout, you may obtain a printout at any DMV office or on the DMV website.
Please submit your driving record (H-6) to the Human Resources Department by one of the following ways:
1. Email: jobs@sdmts.com Subject: H-6
2. Fax: 619-234-1047, or
3. Address: Metropolitan Transit System
1255 Imperial Avenue, Suite 1000
San Diego, CA 92101
Attn: Human Resources Department

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