Utilities/Groundworks Foreman

We are working to fill a crew of in-house, full time employees on a 8+ year project in northern Virginia for a premier custom estate builder undertaking a one-of-a-kind, large-scale private development: transforming 1000+ acres of undeveloped land into an exclusive corporate compound. The project involves extensive civil site work including mass grading and earthmoving, installation of underground utilities (sanitary sewer, stormwater management, and water lines), construction of internal roads, ponds, spillways, and comprehensive site infrastructure.

As Groundworks Foreman, you will lead and directly supervise the groundworks crew, ensuring high-quality, safe, and efficient execution of all earthwork and civil site operations. This is a hands-on leadership role perfect for someone experienced in complex, high-end private or heavy-civil projects who takes pride in precision grading, proper drainage, and building to exacting standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the groundworks/earthworks crew (operators, laborers, and support staff) for grading, excavation, land clearing, underground utility installation (storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water), backfill, compaction, road base preparation, pond/spillway construction, and stormwater management systems.
• Interpret civil engineering plans, drawings, specifications, and surveys; Client out work, establish grades, and ensure all work meets design intent and project tolerances.
• Develop daily/weekly work plans in coordination with the Project Superintendent or Civil Manager; sequence tasks efficiently to maintain overall project schedule.
• Oversee safe and productive use of heavy equipment (excavators, dozers, loaders, graders, compactors, etc.) and coordinate material deliveries.
• Enforce strict safety protocols, OSHA compliance, erosion & sediment control measures, and environmental best practices especially critical in this sensitive rural setting.
• Monitor quality of workmanship, perform field testing as needed (compaction, grades, utility installation), and proactively address issues to avoid rework.
• Track crew productivity, attendance, and performance; provide coaching, training, and mentoring to develop team members.
• Maintain accurate daily reports, time records, equipment logs, and communicate progress, challenges, and material needs to leadership.
• Collaborate with other trades (framing, landscaping, etc.) to ensure smooth handoffs as the project moves from civil/site phase into vertical construction.

Requirements & Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience as a Foreman (or strong Lead) in civil/site development, heavy excavation, or underground utility work preferably on large-scale private estates, compounds, or similar complex projects.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of grading, earthmoving, underground pipe installation (storm/sanitary), road construction, pond/spillway work, and erosion control.
• Ability to read and interpret civil plans, profiles, and specifications with a high degree of accuracy.
• Proven leadership skills with experience supervising crews of 5 15+ (operators and laborers).
• Familiarity with relevant equipment operation and maintenance; CDL or equipment certifications a plus.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Ability to work in a remote/rural site environment (Upperville area).
• Commitment to safety, quality, and delivering premium results on a high-end project.
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification preferred; Virginia-specific erosion & sediment control knowledge is highly desirable.