About this role
Position Summary
The Dirt and Pipe Foreman is responsible for leading and supervising field crews performing site preparation, earthwork, underground utility installation, storm drainage, grading, and related civil construction activities. The Foreman coordinates labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractors to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and in accordance with project plans and specifications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Field Operations
• Direct and supervise dirt and pipe crews in daily construction activities.
• Coordinate excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, and compaction operations.
• Oversee installation of storm drain, and related underground utilities.
• Ensure work is performed according to project plans, specifications, and industry standards.
• Plan and organize daily work activities to maximize productivity and efficiency.
• Maintain production schedules and meet project milestones.
Crew Leadership
• Lead, train, and mentor equipment operators, pipe layers, laborers, and truck drivers.
• Assign daily tasks and monitor crew performance.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and quality workmanship.
• Ensure crew members understand project requirements and safety expectations.
• Conduct daily toolbox talks and crew meetings.
Safety Management
• Enforce company safety policies and OSHA requirements.
• Conduct daily site safety inspections and hazard assessments.
• Ensure proper trench safety systems are installed and utilized.
• Monitor the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report accidents, incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Maintain a safe and productive work environment.
Equipment and Materials Coordination
• Coordinate equipment needs and utilization.
• Monitor equipment condition and report maintenance requirements.
• Schedule and track deliveries of pipe, bedding materials, aggregates, and related supplies.
• Minimize material waste and equipment downtime.
• Verify quantities received and installed.
Quality Control
• Ensure proper pipe grades, elevations, alignments, and compaction requirements are achieved.
• Verify utility installations comply with project specifications and testing requirements.
• Coordinate inspections with project management, engineers, and municipal representatives.
• Identify and correct deficiencies before inspections.
• Maintain high-quality workmanship standards.
Scheduling and Productivity
• Coordinate activities with project managers, superintendents, subcontractors, and other trades.
• Track daily production and progress.
• Anticipate and resolve field issues that could impact schedule or budget.
• Assist in developing short-term and long-term work plans.
• Maintain accurate daily reports and project documentation.
Project Documentation
• Complete daily reports documenting labor, equipment, production, weather, and site conditions.
• Record installed quantities and work completed.
• Report change order work and unforeseen field conditions.
• Assist management with project planning and progress updates.
Required Qualifications
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in underground utility, sitework, earthwork, or civil construction.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a leadership or foreman role.
• Strong knowledge of grading, excavation, trenching, and utility installation practices.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, utility plans, profiles, and specifications.
• Knowledge of underground utility installation standards and testing procedures.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Preferred Qualifications
• OSHA 30-Hour Certification.
• Competent Person Training for Excavation and Trenching.
• Experience with GPS machine control and grade control systems.
• Experience in municipal, commercial, industrial, or heavy civil construction projects.
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Strong leadership and crew management skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with project managers, inspectors, subcontractors, and crews.
• Knowledge of excavation safety and trench protection systems.
• Ability to solve problems quickly in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Understanding of earthwork, utility installation, compaction, and survey control.
• Ability to work under schedule-driven project conditions.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work around heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely access trenches, excavations, and uneven terrain.
Performance Expectations
• Projects completed safely and in compliance with all regulations.
• Work completed within schedule and productivity goals.
• High-quality utility installations meeting project specifications.
• Accurate daily reporting and documentation.
• Effective crew leadership and employee development.
• Positive working relationships with clients, inspectors, and project stakeholders.