Traffic control and flagging work and crews

Traffic control keeps drivers, walkers and crews safe when work is in or near the road. It covers flaggers, signs, cones, arrow boards and lane closures set up to an approved plan. Utility and road jobs often cannot start without it.

Also searched as: flagger, traffic control technician, traffic control supervisor, flagging crew, work zone setup crew.

Who hires for this

Fiber primes, drill crews, utility contractors, paving crews and tree crews all post traffic control. Towns and counties sometimes require it as a condition of the road opening permit.

What they ask for

• Flagger training or certification recognized in the state
• Signs, cones, drums and arrow boards to the MUTCD standard
• Traffic control plans for lane closures when required
• High visibility gear for every worker
• Certificate of insurance with auto coverage
• Crew that can move with a rolling work zone

How to land more of it

• List the certifications your flaggers hold and which states accept them.
• Own enough equipment for a full lane closure. Primes want one call, not a sign rental and a flagger.
• Drill and fiber crews move fast. Show you can set up, move and break down with them.
• Early starts and reliable arrivals get you the call back more than anything else.

Do flaggers need certification?

Most states require flagger training, and many require a specific certification card. Some jobs also need a traffic control supervisor on site. Check which programs your state accepts before you staff a job.

Who designs the traffic control plan?

Simple setups can often follow standard layouts from the MUTCD or state manual. Bigger closures, highways and complex intersections may need a plan drawn up and approved by the road owner. The permit usually says which applies.

Can police handle traffic control instead?

In some towns police details are required on certain roads, and in others flaggers are fine. Read the road opening permit. Sometimes you will work alongside an officer.

How do I get traffic control work?

Post a free profile on the TrackOver board with your certifications, equipment and service area. Contractors can post a traffic control job free when they get a road opening permit.