Traffic Control Apprentice

Helix Traffic; Newark, Northern (NJ, KY); Hybrid; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

American Flagging, part of the Helix Traffic Solutions network, is hiring a Traffic Control Apprentice in Newark, NJ. The role helps maintain traffic flow around construction zones and supports safety for workers and the traveling public.

Starting pay is $20.00 per hour with opportunities for training, certifications, and career growth in a fast-paced, outdoor work environment. Must pass a drug screen and have a valid driver’s license; full-time availability is required.

Qualifications

• Team player with a focus on safety and teamwork.
• Ability to apply safe traffic control practices in dynamic environments.
• Able to receive and communicate instructions clearly and calmly.
• Must be 18+ and capable of passing a drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Control vehicle and pedestrian traffic around work zones using signs, paddles, or flags.
• Set up and remove temporary traffic control zones including signs and cones.
• Communicate with drivers to guide safe traffic flow.
• Monitor traffic and construction activity to identify safety hazards.
• Coordinate with supervisors using radios and hand signals.
• Wear PPE and follow all safety protocols.
• Warn workers when drivers ignore signals to prevent incidents.
• Load/unload traffic control equipment as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Team Player

Safe traffic control practices

Clear instruction communication

Attention to detail

Stand for extended periods

18 years or older

Drug screen required

Valid driver's license

Lift up to 50 lbs

Work in all weather conditions

High school diploma preferred

Traffic control/Flagger Certification

Education

High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Job description

Join Helix Traffic Solutions – Traffic Control for a Safer Tomorrow

About Helix Traffic Solutions

We’re not just placing cones—we’re rethinking the way traffic moves. Helix Traffic Solutions is a national leader in traffic control, work zone safety, and traffic management services. Through a network of specialized operating companies across the U.S., Helix delivers smart, reliable solutions that protect lives, support critical infrastructure projects, and keep communities moving safely.

American Flagging is a proud member of the Helix Traffic Solutions network, providing expert traffic control and traffic management services throughout the Northeast, including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

American Flagging delivers tailored, end-to-end traffic management solutions designed to prioritize safety, compliance, and efficiency on every jobsite. Our experienced teams support a wide range of roadway and construction projects, ensuring work zones remain safe for workers, drivers, and surrounding communities.

Our services and capabilities include:

• ATSSA-certified flaggers trained in the latest traffic control methods and fully compliant with MUTCD standards
• Sales and rental of traffic control devices, including traffic cones, drums, channelizing devices, and variable solar message boards
• Flexible short-term rental and permanent equipment solutions to support projects of any size
• A full-service sign division, offering construction, street, regulatory, and warning signage
• Professional sign installation, including proper height, spacing, materials, and support structures

With a strong focus on reliability and compliance, American Flagging provides the equipment, expertise, and personnel needed to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow across diverse work environments.

Why Work with Helix & American Flagging?

We’re a people-first organization with a mission centered on safety and service. When you join American Flagging, you become part of a local, experienced team backed by the strength and stability of the Helix Traffic Solutions national network. You’ll find:

• A strong culture of safety, accountability, and professionalism
• Hands-on work that directly protects workers and the traveling public
• Access to training, certifications, and career growth opportunities
• The support of a national organization with the feel of a close-knit local team

What to Expect

Our work is fast-paced, hands-on, and essential—and that’s exactly what makes it rewarding. Every role at American Flagging plays a vital part in keeping Northeast roadways safe and traffic moving efficiently. If you’re safety-focused, dependable, and looking for a career with purpose, we’d be proud to have you on our team.

Traffic Control Apprentice

Pay:Starting at $20.00 per hour

JOB SUMMARY:

The Traffic Control Apprentice is responsible for maintaining the flow of traffic around construction zones, maintenance projects, accidents, or other temporary traffic disruption areas. This role ensures the safety of workers, motorists, and pedestrians by maintaining proper traffic control and following all safety guidelines and regulations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Control vehicle and pedestrian traffic around work zones using handheld signs, paddles, or flags
• Set up, maintain, and remove temporary traffic control work zones including signs, barricades, and cones according to project requirements and regulations
• Communicate clearly with drivers to provide guidance and ensure safe traffic flow
• Monitor traffic and construction activity to anticipate and respond to potential safety hazards
• Coordinate with supervisors and other team members using hand signals, radios, or other communication equipment
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Warn workers when approaching vehicles fail to heed signals to prevent accidents and injuries
• Assist with loading/unloading traffic control equipment as needed
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS/ QUALIFICATIONS:

• Being a Team Player.
• Understand and apply safe traffic control practices, sometimes in stressful situations.
• Ability to receive and communicate instructions clearly, firmly and courteously.
• Strong attention to detail and focus.
• Keep a reliable and professional demeanor at all times.
• Have full time availability due to shift times changing daily.
• Able to stand for extended periods (8+ hours) while maintaining focus.
• Be 18 years of age or older.
• Must be able to pass a drug screen for all substances to include THC products.
• Must have a valid driver's license AND reliable transportation.
• Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Traffic control/ Flagger Certification (Provided by the company at orientation).

EXPERIENCE:

• No prior experience required; traffic control experience preferred.
• Willing to learn and follow safety procedures.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Outdoor work environment in and around construction zones
• Exposure to traffic, loud noises, and construction equipment
• Travel to different work sites

Helix Traffic Solutions, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Affir