Crossing Guards

The School Crossing Guard Unit is a group of trained civilians that provide safe pedestrian access to and from school properties. School crossing guards in Riverside Township are an essential part of the Riverside Police team, working every school day to protect children and families as they cross busy streets near our schools. As trained members of the School Crossing Guard Unit, they manage designated crosswalks, control traffic with stop paddles, and clearly communicate when it is safe for students and other pedestrians to cross, helping to prevent accidents and confusion. They act as the eyes and ears of the Riverside Police Department in school zones, reinforcing traffic laws, observing unsafe driver behavior, and reporting concerns so officers can respond quickly when needed. Their consistent presence reminds drivers that children are nearby, slows traffic around schools, and teaches students safe crossing habits—like stopping at the curb, looking both ways, and crossing only when directed—making them a critical layer of safety in our community.

By standing out there in all kinds of weather, greeting students, and maintaining order at crossings, Riverside’s crossing guards provide daily, hands‑on public safety service and demonstrate that the police and community are working together to keep our children safe.
Our School Resource Officers manage them in a cooperative administrative arrangement between the Riverside Police Department and the Riverside School District.

Interested in joining our team?  

What You’ll Do:

  • Help students and families cross streets safely before and after school
  • Be a positive, welcoming presence in your neighborhood
  • Work outdoors and enjoy flexible, part-time hours

Qualifications:

  • Reliable and punctual
  • Friendly, patient, and safety-minded
  • Must be able to stand for periods of time and work in various weather conditions
  • Background check required

Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Training provided—no experience necessary!
  • Perfect for retirees, parents, or anyone looking to give back

Hours: 

Crossing Guard hours are generally Monday through Friday.

Morning Session:  7 a.m. until 8:15 a.m. 

Afternoon session: 1:50p.m. until 3 p.m. 

If interested and you have what it takes, please print out, fill out and turn in an application. Applications can be emailed to [email protected] or hand it in to the Riverside Township Police at 1 W. Scott Street, Riverside, NJ 08075.

Crossing Guards Application