Working Foreman / Ganger

Metcalfe Plant Hire Limited; Penrith; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training

Career progression

Challenging projects

Job summary

Metcalfe Plant Hire Limited seeks an experienced Working Foreman / Ganger to lead our Civil Engineering and Groundworks team on varied site projects. This hands-on role requires a strong leader who can supervise operations while working alongside the crew to deliver safely and to high standards.

The successful candidate will have proven experience in highways, drainage, foundations and earthworks, with solid reading of drawings and a focus on safety.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Working Foreman, Ganger, or Senior Groundworker in civil engineering and groundworks.
• Strong knowledge of highways, drainage, foundations, earthworks, and related works.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills with a focus on safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise site operatives, subcontractors, and plant operators.
• Organise daily activities to ensure work is completed safely and on programme.
• Work hands-on alongside the team and ensure compliance with drawings and specs.
• Conduct daily briefings and toolbox talks; monitor quality and safety standards.
• Coordinate plant, materials and labour; liaise with site managers and clients.
• Complete site records, inspections and progress reports.

Skills

Leadership

Site supervision

Reading drawings

Health & safety

Communication

Education

CSCS Card (essential)

SSSTS or SMSTS (preferred)

Full UK Driving Licence

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Working Foremen / Gangers to join our growing Civil Engineering and Groundworks team. This is a hands‑on role requiring a strong leader who can supervise site operations while actively working alongside the crew to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.

The successful candidate will have extensive experience in civil engineering and groundworks projects, including highways, drainage, foundations, earthworks, and general civil engineering works, who are looking for long‑term employment and career development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise site operatives, subcontractors, and plant operators.
• Organise daily activities to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in line with programme requirements.
• Work hands‑on alongside the team.
• Ensure all works are carried out in accordance with drawings, specifications, and company procedures.
• Conduct daily briefings and toolbox talks.
• Monitor quality standards and ensure works meet client requirements.
• Promote and enforce health, safety, and environmental compliance on site.
• Coordinate plant, materials, and labour.
• Liaise with Site Managers, Engineers, and clients to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Complete site records, inspections, and progress reports as required.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Working Foreman, Ganger, or Senior Groundworker within the civil engineering and groundworks sector.
• Strong knowledge of highways, drainage, foundations, earthworks, and general civil engineering works.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Strong focus on health and safety.
• Valid CSCS Card (essential).
• SSSTS or SMSTS qualification (preferred).
• CPCS/NPORS plant tickets advantageous.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

What We Offer

• £19.00–£20.00 per hour, depending on experience.
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities.
• Opportunity to work on a variety of challenging civil engineering and infrastructure projects

Location:

Penrith and surrounding area

Job Type:

Full-Time, Permanent

Pay Rate: £19.00–£20.00 per hour (depending on experience)

Join a team that values quality workmanship, safety, and professional development while delivering exceptional civil engineering and groundwork projects.