Crossing Guards and Flaggers: The Job and Requirements

Crossing guards and flaggers are the unsung heroes of traffic control. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists by regulating traffic flow and signaling drivers to stop or proceed cautiously.

Examples of the Job

Crossing guards typically work at busy intersections near schools or other places where large groups of pedestrians are likely to cross the road. They wear bright-colored vests and use signs or hand signals to stop traffic and allow people to cross safely. Flaggers, on the other hand, are usually found at construction sites or on the side of the road where roadwork is being done. Their job is to direct traffic around the work zone, often using handheld flags or stop/slow paddles.

Education and Training Requirements

Unlike many jobs, crossing guards and flaggers don’t require any specific formal education or training. Instead, they typically receive on-the-job training and are supervised by more experienced workers until they are comfortable and proficient in their duties. That said, some states or municipalities may require crossing guards to pass a background check, complete a safety training course, or possess a valid driver’s license.

Progression in the Field

Crossing guards and flaggers often have opportunities for advancement within their roles. For example, a crossing guard may progress to become a supervisor or trainer for other crossing guards, or they may be asked to take on additional responsibilities such as monitoring traffic cameras or coordinating with local law enforcement or transportation agencies. Similarly, flaggers may be promoted to become crew leaders on construction sites, or they may specialize in specific aspects of traffic control such as working with oversized loads or hazardous materials.

Getting Started in the Field

If you’re interested in becoming a crossing guard or flagger but don’t know where to start, reach out to your local agency or organization responsible for traffic control and safety. They can provide guidance on any specific requirements or training programs that may be necessary in your area, as well as information on current job openings or how to apply for positions. Additionally, consider reaching out to current or former crossing guards or flaggers in your community. They may be able to provide insights into what the job entails and offer advice on how to get started.

Salary Data for Crossing Guards and Flaggers

Below is a table of the salary data for the occupation of Crossing guards and flaggers. The data is broken down by job level, union vs non-union, full-time vs part-time, and time-based pay. The national average is provided, as well as the best paid and least paid geographies for this job function.

The US national average salary for Crossing guards and flaggers is $31,678.40 to $40,830.40 depending on job level. Entry-level workers can expect to earn an average of $33,987.20, while experienced workers can earn up to $38,625.60. Unionized workers in this occupation earn more, with an average of $42,348.80 to $43,804.80, compared to nonunion workers who earn an average of $36,088.00 to $30,638.40.

Full-time Crossing guards and flaggers earn an average of $44,116.80, while part-time workers earn an average of $33,841.60 to $32,718.40 depending on experience level. Part-time Level 03 workers have the highest salary range, earning $31,948.80 to $29,910.40. Time-based pay for Crossing guards and flaggers lands at an average of $37,419.20 to $34,153.60.

The highest paid geography for nonunion Crossing guards and flaggers is New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA, where the average salary range is $41,371.20 to $37,024.00. The least paid geography is Connecticut, where part-time workers earn an average of $33,342.40.

Union representation can have a positive effect on the salary and working conditions for Crossing guards and flaggers, as evidenced by the higher average salaries for unionized workers.