Grading & Sitework Foreman / Heavy Equipment Operator

Position Summary

The Operator Foreman is responsible for leading and coordinating daily field operations while also operating heavy equipment as needed. This position supervises crews, ensures work is completed safely and efficiently, and helps keep projects on schedule and within quality standards.

The ideal candidate is an experienced heavy equipment operator with strong leadership skills, a solid understanding of jobsite operations, and the ability to direct crews while remaining hands-on in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise operators, laborers, and other field crew members.
• Coordinate daily work activities based on project plans, schedules, and direction from the Superintendent or Project Manager.
• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, skid steers, dozers, loaders, compact track loaders, and other equipment as needed.
• Assign tasks to crew members and ensure work is completed safely, correctly, and efficiently.
• Read and understand plans, grades, elevations, and job specifications.
• Oversee excavation, grading, site preparation, drainage, utility, and related sitework activities.
• Monitor jobsite progress and communicate production, equipment, material, or scheduling needs to management.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and ensure operators properly maintain assigned equipment.
• Identify equipment problems and coordinate repairs or maintenance when necessary.
• Ensure crews follow company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and jobsite-specific safety procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe worksite.
• Coordinate with subcontractors, suppliers, inspectors, and other crews when necessary.
• Track employee hours, equipment usage, materials, and daily production as required.
• Train and mentor operators and crew members on proper equipment operation and work procedures.
• Assist with troubleshooting field conditions and making adjustments to keep projects moving.
• Perform hands-on work when necessary to support the crew and meet project deadlines.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
• Previous foreman, lead operator, or crew leadership experience preferred.
• Strong experience operating excavators, skid steers, dozers, loaders, and similar construction equipment.
• Knowledge of grading, excavation, drainage, site development, and/or utility construction.
• Ability to read construction plans and understand grades and elevations.
• Strong understanding of jobsite safety requirements.
• Ability to effectively lead and communicate with field crews.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding work.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
• CDL is a plus but not required unless specified by the company.

Skills and Abilities

The successful Operator Foreman should be dependable, safety-focused, organized, and capable of balancing crew leadership with hands-on equipment operation. This individual should be comfortable making day-to-day field decisions, communicating with management, and taking responsibility for the productivity and quality of the crew’s work.

Schedule

Full-time position. Hours may vary depending on project schedules, weather, and workload. Overtime, early mornings, and occasional weekend work may be required.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to safely enter and exit heavy equipment, work on uneven terrain, lift and carry materials or tools as needed, and work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions.

Pay: $25.00 - $31.39 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Which types of heavy equipment are you proficient in operating? Please list the equipment and your approximate years of experience with each?
• Are you able to read and interpret grading plans, site plans, elevations, and construction drawings?
• Do you have experience with rough grading and fine grading?
• Do you have experience installing storm drainage, pipe, culverts, or underground utilities? If yes, please describe.
• Are you comfortable being a working foreman, meaning you will operate equipment daily in addition to supervising the crew?
• What hourly rate or annual salary range are you seeking for this position?

Work Location: On the road