JOB TITLE: Operating Foreman
LOCATION: South Okanagan to the Boundary Region (Field-Based)
INDUSTRY: Forestry | Roadbuilding | Heavy Equipment & Civil Construction
The Sutherland Group is seeking an Operating Foreman to oversee field operations across the South Okanagan to Boundary Region. This boots-on-the-ground leadership role is responsible for coordinating crews, managing site safety, and ensuring high-quality work on forestry, civil, and road-building projects. Reporting to the Director of Operations, the Operating Foreman plays a vital role in delivering projects efficiently while upholding our safety-first, team-driven culture. This is a great opportunity for an experienced foreman or lead hand looking to advance their career with a values-driven organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate field crews and subcontractors on forestry, civil, and road-building projects.
- Lead day-to-day operations on road building, site prep, and road deactivation projects.
- Maintain daily worksite safety through toolbox talks, hazard assessments, and compliance with OHS and COR standards.
- Coordinate scheduling, logistics, and resource allocation.
- Operate and direct the use of heavy equipment.
- Ensure safe and efficient mobilization of heavy equipment, including lowbed coordination and bush site access.
- Troubleshoot challenges in real time, providing practical, field-based solutions.
- Work collaboratively with operations, safety partners, environmental and land monitors to maintain worksite flow and compliance.
- Mentor junior crew members, support development, and foster a culture of accountability.
- Maintain accurate records of labor, equipment hours, materials, and daily production.
- Represent the company professionally with clients, communities, and regulators.
- Support recruitment efforts and participate in onboarding field employees.
- Travel across various project sites in the South Okanagan and Boundary region as needed.
What You Bring
- Minimum 5 years of experience in heavy civil, forestry, or resource industry operations
- 2+ years of leadership experience as a foreman, lead hand, or similar
- Strong understanding of job site safety protocols and environmental regulations
- Ability to read and interpret construction and forestry plans
- Comfortable working in remote, rugged environments and adapting to terrain and weather conditions
- Strong knowledge of forestry practices, road construction methods, and environmental best practices considered an asset
- Confident communicator with leadership presence and the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams
- Proficient with digital reporting tools and familiar with Excel or mobile job tracking apps
- Valid Class 5 driver's license required (Class 1 or 3 an asset)
- Ability to work outdoors in all seasons and travel throughout the project region