Crossing Guard Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s safety-conscious society, the role of crossing guards has never been more essential.

As communities grow and traffic increases, the demand for vigilant individuals who can ensure the safe passage of pedestrians across busy streets continues to surge.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a crossing guard?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the responsibilities of a crossing guard,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable crossing guard job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Crossing Guard Duties and Responsibilities

Crossing Guards play a vital role in ensuring the safety of pedestrians, particularly children, by managing and directing traffic at designated points.

They are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining a safe path for pedestrians crossing streets in school zones and other pedestrian-heavy areas.

The duties and responsibilities of a Crossing Guard include:

• Direct and control pedestrian and vehicular traffic around school zones or other pedestrian-heavy areas
• Guide and assist children in safely crossing streets
• Monitor and report any safety issues or concerns related to the assigned crossing area
• Communicate effectively with school officials, law enforcement, and the general public regarding crossing schedules and safety concerns
• Maintain a professional and alert presence during all assigned hours
• Use stop signs, flags, and other devices to signal traffic to stop or proceed
• Educate pedestrians on proper crossing procedures and safety rules
• Report any accidents or incidents that occur at the crossing point
• Participate in required training and preparedness programs

 

Crossing Guard Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and alert Crossing Guard to ensure the safety of pedestrians, students, and cyclists at designated crossing areas.

Crossing Guard responsibilities include guiding and directing pedestrian traffic, stopping vehicular traffic to allow pedestrians to cross safely, and reporting any traffic incidents or irregularities.

Our ideal candidate is punctual, dependable, and has excellent observation skills to detect any potential safety hazards.

Ultimately, the role of the Crossing Guard is to ensure a safe environment for pedestrians crossing roads near schools and other high-traffic areas.

 

Responsibilities

• Control and direct pedestrian traffic at designated crossings
• Stop traffic to allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross the road safely
• Report any traffic incidents or safety concerns to the police or relevant authority
• Maintain a professional and friendly demeanor at all times
• Identify and report any recurring traffic issues, like speeding vehicles or jaywalking
• Monitor and manage traffic during special events or emergencies
• Assist children, elderly, or disabled individuals in crossing the road
• Perform minor maintenance tasks, like posting traffic signs if needed

 

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience as a crossing guard or in a related role is a plus
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Highly alert and attentive
• Good knowledge of traffic regulations and safety
• First aid certification is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Pension plan
• Uniform allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Crossing Guard
• Work Environment: Outdoors in various weather conditions. The role requires standing for long periods and some physical activity.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the School Safety Supervisor or Traffic Management Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time, usually mornings and afternoons
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Crossing Guard Do?

Crossing Guards play a vital role in the safety of pedestrians, especially children, at designated crossing areas, usually in close proximity to schools.

They are primarily responsible for helping pedestrians safely cross roads.

To do this, they regulate the flow of traffic at key points to allow pedestrians to cross safely.

They use various signs, flags, or signals to alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians.

Crossing Guards monitor and assess the safety of pedestrian routes and report any hazards to the appropriate authorities.

They also keep a close eye on the behavior of children to ensure they follow the rules of road safety.

In case of any emergencies or accidents, Crossing Guards are expected to respond appropriately, providing first aid if necessary, and contacting emergency services.

Some Crossing Guards also play a role in educating students and the wider community about road safety, providing information and advice about how to cross roads safely.

Overall, a Crossing Guard’s main duty is to ensure the safety of pedestrians as they navigate busy roads and intersections.

 

Crossing Guard Qualifications and Skills

Crossing Guards require a unique combination of skills and qualifications to ensure the safety of pedestrians, particularly children, at designated crosswalks, such as:

• Excellent vision and hearing to be aware of the surrounding environment and respond to situations quickly and efficiently.
• Good physical condition to stand for extended periods, sometimes in adverse weather conditions, and to move quickly when necessary.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with children, parents, drivers, and the general public in a courteous and professional manner.
• Alertness and attentiveness to monitor the movements of pedestrians and vehicles, ensuring that all crossing rules are followed.
• Knowledge of traffic control and safety procedures to guide pedestrians safely across roadways.
• Quick decision-making skills to react instantly and appropriately in the event of an emergency.
• Patient and calm demeanor to handle stressful situations and deal with unruly drivers and pedestrians.
• The ability to understand and adhere to all traffic laws and regulations.

 

Crossing Guard Experience Requirements

Crossing Guards typically require no specific educational background, however, they must complete a training program in traffic safety and pedestrian protection procedures.

This can be offered by local police departments or specialized training institutes.

They are expected to have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and an understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding school zone safety.

They must also have a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to the safety of children and community members.

Individuals seeking this role often have previous experience in customer service, community service, or other public-facing roles.

They should be comfortable with outdoor work in various weather conditions, as well as standing for extended periods of time.

While it’s not mandatory, previous experience working with children could be beneficial for this role.

Those with several years of experience as a crossing guard may have opportunities to advance to supervisorial roles or train new recruits.

 

Crossing Guard Education and Training Requirements

Crossing Guards typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, although this may not be strictly necessary for all positions.

While formal education is not often a stringent requirement for this role, relevant experience working with children or in a similar role such as a school bus driver or daycare worker can be beneficial.

Most important are the skills and traits necessary to do the job effectively.

These include good vision and hearing, alertness, a sense of responsibility, and the ability to handle unexpected situations.

New Crossing Guards are usually trained on the job by law enforcement officers or experienced Guards.

They learn traffic laws, emergency procedures, and the local traffic patterns of their assigned areas.

Some states may also require Crossing Guards to complete a certification course in pedestrian safety.

Additionally, Crossing Guards must have a clean background check, as they will be working closely with children.

To enhance their skills and knowledge, Crossing Guards may choose to participate in additional training programs offered by local law enforcement or traffic safety organizations.

 

Crossing Guard Salary Expectations

A Crossing Guard typically earns an average salary of $29,630 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary depending on factors such as the guard’s experience, the location in which they work, and the specific organization that employs them.

 

Crossing Guard Job Description FAQs

What skills does a crossing guard need?

Crossing guards need to have good communication skills to interact effectively with pedestrians, drivers, and especially children.

They also need to be alert and attentive to ensure safety in traffic situations.

Good physical stamina is required as they may have to stand for long periods in different weather conditions.

 

Do crossing guards need any specific qualifications?

Crossing guards typically do not need any formal qualifications.

However, they must complete a training program on traffic laws and safety procedures.

A high school diploma may be preferred by some employers.

Additionally, a clean criminal record is necessary as the job often involves interaction with children.

 

What should you look for in a crossing guard resume?

The resume should show proof of a clean criminal record, good physical fitness, and completion of a relevant training program.

Experience working with children or in public safety roles can be beneficial.

References from previous employers or character references could also be a good indicator of their suitability for the role.

 

What qualities make a good crossing guard?

A good crossing guard should have patience, good judgment, and excellent communication skills.

They should be reliable and trustworthy, as they are responsible for the safety of children and other pedestrians.

They also need to be able to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively.

 

Is it difficult to hire crossing guards?

The difficulty in hiring crossing guards can vary depending on the location and budget.

In some areas, there may be a high demand for crossing guards but a lack of suitable candidates.

It can also be challenging to find individuals willing to work part-time or irregular hours.

However, offering competitive wages and benefits can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve shone a light on the integral role of a crossing guard.

And you know what?

It’s not just about stopping traffic.

It’s about guiding the future, one safe crossing at a time.

With our handy crossing guard job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into action.

But why not go further?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating accurate job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every safe crossing contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s guide that future. Together.

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