General Foreman
Department: Operations / Field Supervision
Reports To: Project Manager, Superintendent, or Operations Manager
Supervises: Foremen, Lead Persons, Tradespeople, Laborers, and Subcontractor Crews
Job Summary
The General Foreman is a pivotal field leadership role responsible for the direct, on-site supervision of multiple work crews and foremen to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This position serves as the critical link between upper management and the frontline workforce, translating project plans into daily executable tasks. The General Foreman is a master of coordination, safety enforcement, and problem-solving.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Crew Management:
- Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of multiple foremen, tradespeople, and subcontractors.
- Assign daily tasks, responsibilities, and production goals to foremen and crews.
- Mentor, train, and motivate team members to achieve peak performance and productivity.
- Conduct regular crew meetings (toolbox talks) to communicate project goals, safety topics, and schedule updates.
- Manage crew timekeeping, attendance, and performance issues in conjunction with HR/Project Management.
2. Safety & Compliance:
- Serve as the primary on-site safety officer, enforcing all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and site-specific safety plans.
- Conduct daily safety inspections, hazard assessments, and ensure a clean and orderly worksite.
- Investigate all incidents and near-misses, implementing corrective actions.
- Ensure all personnel have the required training, certifications, and PPE.
3. Production & Schedule Management:
- Interpret project plans, specifications, and schedules to execute work efficiently.
- Develop and implement short-term look-ahead schedules in coordination with the Project Manager.
- Monitor daily progress, identify potential delays, and implement solutions to keep the project on track.
- Ensure work is performed to the correct specifications, codes, and quality standards.
4. Quality Control:
- Perform frequent quality inspections of work in progress and completed work.
- Ensure compliance with all project specifications, building codes, and industry best practices.
- Coordinate with quality assurance personnel and address deficiencies promptly.
5. Material, Equipment & Cost Control:
- Coordinate the timely delivery, staging, and secure storage of materials and equipment.
- Manage on-site equipment, including scheduling usage, maintenance, and minor repairs.
- Monitor labor and material usage to minimize waste and stay within budget.
- Report on daily production, material usage, and manpower needs.
6. Communication & Coordination:
- Act as the primary point of contact for on-site coordination between different trades and subcontractors.
- Report daily progress, issues, and needs to the Project Manager/Superintendent.
- Liaise with clients, inspectors, and engineers as required during site visits.
Qualifications & Skills
Education & Experience:
- High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Construction Management, Engineering) preferred.
- Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in the industry, with at least 3 years in a Foreman or Lead supervisory role.
- Proven experience running large work crews and complex phases of a project.
Licenses & Certifications:
- OSHA 30-Hour Certification (required).
- First Aid/CPR Certification (often required).
- Specific trade certifications or journeyman licenses as applicable (e.g., electrical, plumbing, welding).
- Valid Driver’s License.
Core Competencies:
- Leadership: Strong ability to lead, motivate, and hold teams accountable.
- Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of construction/industrial methods, materials, tools, and sequencing.
- Safety-First Mindset: Unwavering commitment to safety standards and culture.
- Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical skills to quickly identify and resolve issues in the field.
- Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; ability to read and interpret blueprints and schematics.
- Organization & Planning: Highly organized with strong planning and time-management skills.
- Computer Skills: Proficiency with mobile devices, email, and construction software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam, MS Project, Excel).
