Railroad Flagger

Role Summary

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Railroad Flagger in Lewiston, Maine. This full-time, field-based position is responsible for protecting workers on active rail corridors by managing train movement and applying required federal safety procedures. The role supports Class 1 railroads, regional and short line railroads, transit agencies, state rail projects, and contractors.

Reporting Line and Travel

This position reports to the District Manager. Travel is a major part of the role, with expected travel ranging from 50% to 85% on average. The job may also require extended time away from home, including periods lasting several months.

Compensation

Pay is offered at $25 to $37 per hour, depending on experience.

Required Experience

Candidates should have at least 2 years of experience with a Class 1 railroad, regional short line, transit system, state DOT rail division, railroad supplier, railroad contractor, or railroad consultant. Experience in the Maintenance of Way (MOW) department is preferred.

Job Duties

• Manage and coordinate on-site work activities.
• Maintain clear communication with dispatchers, train crews, railroad personnel, and contractors.
• Conduct safety meetings before work starts.
• Apply and enforce railroad, state, and federal safety rules.
• Verify that contractors meet training obligations.
• Identify and correct safety or rule violations.
• Prepare daily activity reports.
• Support on-track safety in line with federal requirements.

Skills and Knowledge Needed

• Comfort using standard office and field tools such as Citrix, email, phone, texting apps, Android tablets, and smartphones.
• Strong organization and attention to detail.
• Clear verbal and written communication.
• Working knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety practices.
• Ability to build and sustain client relationships.
• Willingness to complete all required federal, client, and company training.

Work Conditions

This is a field position that involves outdoor work and frequent movement across job sites. The role requires clear English communication in speaking, reading, and writing. Candidates must be comfortable driving or traveling long distances, standing for extended periods, walking on uneven surfaces, and working in dusty, noisy, and weather-extreme environments. Good vision, including near, far, color, and peripheral vision, is necessary. The position also requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Paid vacation and paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan

Education

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Additional Information

NRSS is a certified DBE/WBE organization focused on railroad safety services, field safety staffing, and safety training across the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company emphasizes a safety-first culture, stating that no task is too urgent to be performed safely. Employment is subject to successful completion of pre-employment and recurring background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and classroom training. NRSS is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Reference Keywords

Relevant reference terms associated with the role include roadmaster, roadway worker, roadway worker in charge, maintenance of way, track inspector, track maintainer, track supervisor, signal inspector, signal maintainer, signal supervisor, bridge inspector, bridge maintainer, assistant roadmaster, and railroad project management roles.