Construction Safety Flagperson

Flagpersons (Construction Safety) are hired as part-time, temporary employees in support of a 24/7 transit operation. This role requires full schedule flexibility, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments. Hours are not guaranteed and may vary based on operational needs. Work is performed outdoors and can be physically demanding. This role is best suited for individuals who are dependable, flexible, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, safety-sensitive environment. The Construction Safety Flagperson position is a great way to get your foot in the door at MTS—many top Flagpersons are promoted into Train Operator and other full-time positions or transition into other roles within the organization.

About the role

Under direction of the Assignments Supervisor, the Flagperson (Construction Safety) protects personnel and equipment while working on or near the tracks. The role uses various types of equipment, such as flags, whistles, discs, lights, and two-way radios to ensure the safe passage of trains. Duties primarily consist of three assignments:

• Switch Tender: Manipulates switches and signals train operators when proper switch alignment is provided.
• Watchperson: Monitors approaching trains and alerts work crews to clear the track of personnel and equipment.
• Flagperson (Construction Safety): Conducts job safety briefings, monitors approaching trains, alerts work crews, and signals train operators when tracks are clear.

Responsibilities

• Conduct job briefings prior to work activity and follow-up briefings when new workers enter the job site or if there is a change in working conditions or procedures.
• Monitor approaching trains and alert work crews to clear the track of personnel and equipment.
• Signal train traffic to stop, reduce speed, or proceed cautiously.
• Signal train operators when tracks are safe and clear for the train to proceed.
• Mount discs to poles and secure them with bungee cords; manipulate switches to allow trains to move onto another track.
• Communicate using a hand-held two-way radio.
• Use flags, whistles, discs, lights, and radios to ensure the safe passage of trains.
• Wash non-revenue vehicles on a weekly basis.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations.
• Ability to read, understand, and apply written instructions, policies, regulations, and union labor contracts.
• Ability to write letters, memoranda, and reports using clear, concise, and grammatically correct English.
• Ability to speak clearly, distinctly, and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy.
• Ability to maintain and successfully complete assignments without detailed instructions.
• Strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to multi-task.
• Skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports.
• Ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities.
• Ability to establish and maintain priorities.
• Ability to exercise prudent and timely judgment in normal and emergency situations.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, often on uneven ground, and work outdoors in inclement weather conditions.
• Flexible schedule; availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, climb stairs, stoop, sit, bend, reach overhead, and lift (must be able to lift 50 pounds unaided).
• Ability to stand for extended periods, often on uneven ground, and work outdoors in inclement weather.
• Ability to carry an equipment bag, mount discs to poles, wave flags, throw switches, and wear black or dark brown work boots with closed toes.
• Ability to perform tasks involving manual dexterity, such as use of a computer and 10-key.
• Work may require more than 8 hours per day, travel, variable shifts, or irregular hours.
• Good eyesight and ability to maintain constant alertness under tedious circumstances.
• Duties are performed primarily in an outdoor environment.

Qualifications

• Must successfully complete the SDTI Roadway Worker Certification Course and annual recertification sessions.
• Must satisfactorily pass all applicable examinations, including a pre-employment physical, drug screen, and background check.

Pay

Hourly Pay: $23.61

Schedule

Part-time, temporary role requiring full schedule flexibility, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments. Hours are not guaranteed and may vary based on operational needs.