what is a traffic marshall?

A traffic marshall is an expert in controlling vehicle movements in a work area. You create roadways throughout the site and mark the exit and entry points to ensure seamless workflow. You also make sure people crossing the pathways are safe, and vehicles aren't stuck in a queue waiting to park or exit the premises. Your work setting varies depending on the industry. For instance, if you work in the retail sector, you direct vehicles in and out of the premises and ensure a steady traffic flow.

Some traffic marshalls also work in construction sites, loading and offloading areas or factories. Your responsibility is to direct truck drivers around the sites safely. You will use banksman signals to guide heavy vehicles through risk areas when their view is obscured. Workers in the construction sites rely on your direction to prevent accidents and reduce delays due to vehicle traffic.

Most employers conduct risk assessments that help traffic marshalls design roadways that minimise obstructions on vehicles' paths. When directing the vehicles, you need to keep a safe distance and maintain awareness of your surroundings to avoid putting people in harm's way.

Would working as a traffic marshall suit your expertise in hand signal and organisation skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a traffic marshall role.
 

traffic marshall jobs
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average salary of a traffic marshall

According to ONS, the average salary of a traffic marshall is £24,910 annually, which translates to £12.77 per hour. Entry-level positions attract a salary of £23,278 per year, but experienced traffic marshalls earn more than £29,250 annually. Working extra hours usually attracts higher hourly rates and can increase your take-home salary. You will also receive medical allowances, bonuses and other perks from your employer that improve your compensation package.

what factors affect your salary as a traffic marshall?

Your work experience and hands-on skills significantly impact your pay structure. For instance, someone with five years of experience in a similar role earns more than entry-level workers. While educational qualifications aren't a requirement for the role, having formal training can boost your compensation package. If you have completed short courses that improve your skill, the employer will increase your salary. The industry sector also determines the job's complexity, influencing your earnings. For instance, working in construction sites and shipping docks may require additional skills like hand signals and risk analysis. Therefore, your salary reflects the scope of your role. If the employer wants you to assist in other duties like loading and offloading, they may offer a higher salary for the added roles.
 

Smiling male looking away wearing yellow jacket and walkie-talkie signing where to go
Smiling male looking away wearing yellow jacket and walkie-talkie signing where to go
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types of traffic marshalls

Some types of traffic marshalls include:

  • site access traffic marshall: your job is to coordinate the movement of vehicles on the site. You also ensure drivers of heavy vehicles don't hit public property or damage other people's cars when turning or reversing. You are usually stationed at the entrance to ensure vehicles enter and leave safely.
  • cpcs traffic marshall: your role is to direct heavy plant machinery within a construction site or factory for a smooth traffic flow. You help drivers turn and reverse without causing accidents at the workplace. A CPCS traffic marshall must complete the Construction Plant Competence Scheme training to carry out their duties.
     
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working as a traffic marshall

A traffic marshal job involves working in construction sites to ensure the safe movement of vehicles and minimising snarl-ups. Read on to find out the day-to-day activities of a traffic marshall and their work schedule.
 

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education and skills

You can become a traffic marshall by completing a specialist course or an apprenticeship programme. The experience you gain at work is also important in improving your career prospects in the field.

  • college course: kick-start your career as a traffic marshall with a certificate or diploma in any relevant course. For instance, you can get a certificate in plant operative. While academic qualification isn't compulsory, it prepares you for site work. You should also get short courses on traffic marshall, where you learn to use hand signals.
  • apprenticeship: if you have 5 GCSEs with maths, science and design subjects, consider an advanced level or intermediate apprenticeship with a construction company. The apprenticeships are open to anyone above 16 years, and they give you relevant work experience and course work. You can explore additional training to become a traffic marshall when you are an apprentice.

skills and competencies

A traffic marshall requires the following skills:

  • awareness of surroundings: as a traffic marshall, you need to be alert and aware of your surroundings. You should be on high alert when vehicles are turning to prevent emergencies. When maintaining the traffic, pay attention to the entrance and ensure vehicles don't block exit pathways. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings helps you notice unusual activities when a vehicle turns or situations that can lead to traffic congestion.
  • hand signal communication: hand signals are crucial for a traffic marshall. They help you communicate with drivers in noisy environments.
  • physical fitness: as a traffic marshall, you spend most of the day on your feet. That means you need to be physically fit to stand for long hours.
     
smiling male looking behind him
smiling male looking behind him
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FAQs

FAQs about working as a traffic marshall

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