Railroad Flagger

Role Overview

National Railroad Safety Services, Inc. (NRSS) is seeking a Railroad Flagger in Yakima, Washington. This is a full-time field-based role focused on keeping track workers safe by managing train movements and applying federal railroad safety standards. The position supports large railroads, regional rail lines, transit systems, state transportation work, and contractor projects.

Reporting Line and Travel

This role reports to the District Manager. Travel is a major part of the job, averaging roughly 50% to 85%, and the employee should be prepared for extended assignments that may last for months.

Compensation

Pay is listed at $25 to $37, depending on experience.

Key Duties

The Railroad Flagger will coordinate site activities, communicate with dispatchers, train crews, railroad personnel, and contractors, and start each shift with safety briefings. The role also requires enforcing railroad, state, and federal rules, confirming that contractors meet training requirements, identifying rule violations, preparing daily work reports, and maintaining on-track safety in line with federal regulations.

Experience and Skills Needed

Applicants should have at least 2 years of experience in a Class 1 railroad, regional short line, transit system, state DOT rail division, railroad supplier, railroad contractor, or railroad consulting environment, ideally within Maintenance of Way. Strong computer comfort is important, including use of Citrix, email, phone, and texting tools, along with experience using Android tablets and smartphones. The employer also looks for strong organization, close attention to detail, effective written and verbal communication, knowledge of railroad engineering, design, construction, and safety, and the ability to build strong client relationships.

Work Conditions

This position is performed in a field environment. The successful candidate must communicate clearly in English, be willing to travel or drive long distances, stand for extended periods, walk on uneven ground, and work outdoors in both hot and cold weather. The job also involves dusty and noisy surroundings and requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Good vision is required, including near, far, color, and peripheral vision.

Training and Compliance

The selected candidate must be able to complete required federal, client, and company training. All employees are expected to place safety first at all times; no task is considered so urgent that it should be done unsafely.

Benefits

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability coverage. The role also offers paid vacation and holidays plus a 401(k) retirement plan.

Education

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Hiring Conditions

NRSS is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Any finalist must successfully complete pre-employment and recurring background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and classroom training.

About the Company

NRSS is a certified DBE/WBE organization that provides railroad safety services and safety training across the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company emphasizes a strong safety record and a commitment to protecting workers, customers, and communities.

Additional Keywords

Relevant job identifiers mentioned for this role include Assistant Roadmaster, Bridge Inspector, Bridge Manager, Bridge Maintainer, Bridge Supervisor, Division Engineer, Employee In Charge, Flagger, Flagging, Flagman, Foreman, Maintenance of Way, Manager Track Maintenance, Manager Track Projects, Rail, Railroad, Railroad Project Manager, Railway, Railway Project Manager, Roadmaster, Roadway Worker, Roadway Worker In Charge, Roadway Worker Protection, Safety, Signal Inspector, Signal Maintainer, Signal Manager, Signal Supervisor, Track Inspector, Track Maintainer, Track Manager, and Track Supervisor.