Pipe Foreman – Underground Utilities / Heavy Civil Construction

Location: Suffolk, VA
Salary: $74,000 – $100,000 annually, based on experience
Industry: Heavy Civil Construction / Underground Utilities
Job Type: Full-Time

Job Description

Cornerstone Recruiting is seeking an experienced Pipe Foreman for a well-established heavy civil construction contractor in the Suffolk, VA area. This position is responsible for overseeing underground utility construction projects, including water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage installations.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in underground utility construction, pipe installation, excavation, and crew supervision. This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for an experienced Foreman who can effectively manage field operations, coordinate equipment and Client, and ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to project specifications.

The Pipe Foreman will work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, subcontractors, inspectors, and field personnel to oversee daily construction activities and maintain project schedules, productivity, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate daily underground utility construction operations, including water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage installations.

• Lead and manage pipe crews, equipment operators, laborers, and subcontractors.

• Oversee excavation, trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and related site utility construction activities.

• Plan and schedule Client, equipment, materials, and deliveries to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.

• Ensure underground utility installations meet project specifications, quality standards, and established deadlines.

• Coordinate with Project Managers, Superintendents, engineers, inspectors, and other field personnel to execute construction plans.

• Review construction drawings, utility plans, and project specifications to ensure accurate installation.

• Conduct daily crew meetings to communicate safety requirements, production expectations, and project objectives.

• Enforce OSHA regulations, trench safety requirements, company safety procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Identify potential jobsite hazards and implement appropriate safety measures.

• Train, mentor, and develop crew members while promoting teamwork, accountability, and safe work practices.

• Coordinate material deliveries, equipment utilization, and subcontractor activities to maintain efficient operations.

• Monitor daily production, crew performance, and project progress.

• Maintain accurate daily reports, timekeeping records, material documentation, and equipment usage reports.

• Assist with project scheduling, cost tracking, change orders, purchase orders, and jobsite coordination.

• Communicate effectively with inspectors, clients, and project leadership to resolve field issues and maintain project progress.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; additional construction-related education preferred.

• Minimum of 2 years of construction experience, preferably in underground utilities, pipe installation, excavation, or heavy civil construction.

• At least 1 year of construction supervisory or foreman experience preferred.

• Strong knowledge of underground utility construction, including water mains, sanitary sewer systems, and storm drainage installations.

• Experience supervising pipe crews and coordinating daily field construction activities.

• Understanding of excavation, trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and related construction methods.

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, utility plans, and project specifications.

• Knowledge of construction safety standards, trench safety procedures, and quality control practices.

• Experience coordinating heavy equipment, Client, subcontractors, and material deliveries.

• OSHA 10 certification required.

• Valid driver's license required.

• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently, make decisions in the field, and maintain productivity in a fast-paced construction environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $74,000 – $100,000 annually, depending on experience.

• Competitive benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement.

• Long-term career opportunity with an established heavy civil construction contractor.

• Opportunity to lead underground utility and infrastructure construction projects.

Work Environment

This position requires working outdoors in active heavy civil construction environments with exposure to varying weather conditions, excavation activities, heavy equipment, dust, vibration, and noise.

Candidates must be comfortable working in physically demanding field conditions and supervising underground utility construction operations while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

Apply Today

If you are an experienced Pipe Foreman or Underground Utilities Foreman looking for an opportunity to lead crews, manage underground utility projects, and advance your career in heavy civil construction, we encourage you to apply.

Cornerstone Recruiting specializes in connecting experienced construction professionals with leading contractors throughout the Mid-Atlantic and nationwide.

All inquiries will be handled confidentially.

Cornerstone Recruiting is an Equal Opportunity Employment recruiting firm.