A Telecommunications Underground Construction Lead (often called an Underground Foreman, Crew Leader, or Underground Supervisor) is a hands-on field leader who manages crews and daily operations for burying fiber-optic cables, conduits, and related telecom infrastructure.
Core Responsibilities
- Crew Supervision: Direct and mentor field laborers, equipment operators, and subcontractors on active job sites.
- Site Execution: Oversee trenching, potholing, directional drilling, micro-trenching, conduit placement, fiber pulling, and handhole/vault setting.
- Blueprint & Map Interpretation: Read and follow engineering plans, RFDS, utility maps, SOWs (Statements of Work), and permit requirements.
- Safety & Compliance: Conduct daily toolbox talks, enforce OSHA guidelines, and ensure utilities are properly located and marked before digging.
- Quality & Reporting: Inspect completed work for specification compliance, track daily production logs, take site photos, and submit redlines or progress reports to the Project Manager.
- Problem Solving: Resolve field conflicts, coordinate material/equipment deliveries, and interface with municipal inspectors or utility representatives.
Typical Qualifications & Requirements
- Experience: 3 to 5+ years of underground utility, civil, or telecommunications construction experience, including 1+ year in a lead or foreman role.
- Equipment Skills: Proficiency operating mini-excavators, trenchers, skid steers, plows, and locating/proofing equipment (directional drilling experience is a strong plus).
- Certifications: Valid driver's license (CDL Class A/B preferred), OSHA 10/30 certification, and ability to pass a DOT medical card review.
- Physical Demands: Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, lift 50 to 80 lbs., and perform active physical labor.