Crossing Guards and Flaggers
Crossing guards and flaggers direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic at streets, schools, railroad crossings, and construction sites. They use hand signals, stop signs, and flagging equipment to manage flow and prevent accidents. Most work outdoors in varying weather conditions, often during peak traffic or construction hours.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crossing guards and flaggers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A crossing guard at a school manages pedestrian crossings during arrival and dismissal times, positioning themselves at intersections and using stop signs to halt traffic. A flagger at a construction site directs vehicles through work zones, communicating with equipment operators and crew members. Both roles involve standing for extended periods, staying alert to traffic patterns, and consistently applying safety procedures across their shifts.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited to this work if you're practical and detail-oriented, preferring structured rules and procedures over independent decision-making. You're dependable about following established protocols, comfortable working outdoors, and able to stay focused on safety responsibilities without much variation in daily tasks.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $53,540 | $60,230 | $61,620 | 50 |
| California | $38,010 | $50,610 | $75,130 | 9,390 |
| Washington | $45,030 | $48,940 | $63,290 | 3,340 |
| Minnesota | $37,790 | $48,100 | $57,440 | 260 |
| Oregon | $40,160 | $47,110 | $65,070 | 2,250 |
| Wyoming | $35,970 | $47,070 | $47,070 | 160 |
| South Dakota | $30,390 | $46,940 | $49,680 | 60 |
| New Hampshire | $38,210 | $45,980 | $46,210 | 440 |
| Vermont | $45,140 | $45,410 | $46,410 | 340 |
| New York | $38,100 | $44,730 | $54,000 | 10,430 |
| Massachusetts | $37,000 | $43,460 | $76,280 | 1,700 |
| Hawaii | $36,280 | $42,780 | $53,420 | 230 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Work Zone Flagger — National Safety Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crossing guards and flaggers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-9091.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.