1. You’ll need to get up early and stay late.
Work zone jobs often start early in the morning, and flaggers need to be the first people to arrive since they set things up for the rest of the crew. So you’ll need to be okay with an early wakeup – plus a commute. You may also have to work late, because there is rarely a set “end time” for this type of work.
2. You have to be ready for all weather.
From heat to cold, you’re exposed to it outside, and the weather may change while you’re on the job. You’ll need to come prepared to handle rain and wind as well as sun and heat – potentially all on the same day.
3. Phone use is absolutely prohibited while you’re flagging.
Flagging involves long hours and requires concentration and alertness. You need to “have your head on a swivel,” always scanning the area for what’s going on so that you can respond quickly and appropriately. This means that you absolutely may not use your phone: it’s unsafe for you to look down or away from the road (and Washington’s Flagger rules also prohibit it!). You also need to be able to hear what’s going on, so listening to earbuds is out.
4. The workload can vary greatly.
Flagging is usually a part-time, on-call job, and it’s seasonal. In Washington State, high season is typically from April to September. But no matter the time of year, you’ll need to be flexible with your schedule.
5. Your reputation matters.
Communicating well with your supervisor and being willing, able, and dependable on the job are the best ways to move up in the industry. You’ll need to plan ahead and be organized about your schedule, answer your messages promptly, and let your boss know right away if you can’t work. The work zone can’t function without you, so it’s important to get to work on time. This means you will likely need your own car to get to and from remote job sites. Crews often request specific people, so if you’re reliable and motivated to do a good job, you’ll get called more often.
6. Make safety your priority.
Flagging is a dangerous job – that’s part of why it requires a certification. Drivers can be distracted, erratic, aggressive, or under the influence. Taking your job seriously means valuing the life of yourself and your crew, and being the kind of person who really cares about safety. You’ll need to stay alert, be assertive, and be able to move quickly to respond to hazards that arise.
7. Flagging is a fantastic job if you like variety and challenge.
When you’re working with another flagger who really knows what they’re doing, there’s an amazing flow that happens that’s kind of magical. If you like to stay busy and be challenged on the job, and you like variety and flexibility, this is a great career for you. It allows you to see new places, be in new communities, and meet new people, while working outdoors and doing work that is physical. Flagging lets you be your own boss but also a team member, so in many ways it can be the best of both worlds. It’s also a great self-esteem and confidence-builder. When you pay attention and do a good job, you’ll also earn the respect of your teammates and supervisors.
This article was contributed by Vicki Hebert, owner of Smuggler’s Cove Flagging on San Juan Island, and a state-certified flagger instructor with experience spanning four decades. She is passionate about educating, empowering, and mentoring flaggers and others in the trades.
