Foreman - Utility Pole Inspector

Kids for the Future; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

EXO Inc. is seeking a Wood Services Foreman / Crew Leader to oversee inspections of wooden utility poles, ensure safety standards, and manage a crew of at least one Laborer. You will document findings, coordinate with stakeholders, and drive corrective actions to maintain asset reliability.

The role emphasizes leadership, detailed reporting, and adherence to safety protocols, with significant field travel and hands-on use of hand tools and digging tools in diverse environments.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; OSHA 10 training preferred.
• OSHA 10 training completed (safety focus) and pesticide applicator license.
• Ability to travel up to 75% as part of field duties.
• Proven leadership and team supervision experience preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and documentation proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough inspections of wooden utility poles for safety and structural integrity.
• Assess and document pole condition, including signs of decay, cracks, or infestation.
• Ensure safety compliance and recommend repairs or replacements as needed.
• Record inspection results in data collection tools with photos and notes; manage crew hours.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to communicate outcomes and actions.
• Suggest improvements to inspection procedures and tools for efficiency.
• Direct and supervise crew members; assign tasks and monitor performance.
• Maintain equipment readiness and inventory for project needs.

Skills

Attention to detail

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

OSHA 10 training

Pesticide Applicator License

Tools

Hand tools

Digging tools

Equipment maintenance

Job description

EXO Inc. has been protecting public infrastructure across the U.S. since 2009. Without consistent maintenance and quality assurance, critical assets face a growing risk of failure over time. EXO delivers engineering, inspection, and remediation services for lighting poles, transmission towers, and other infrastructure exposed to ongoing wear from usage, aging, and environmental conditions.

With deep expertise in vertical infrastructure, EXO builds on years of engineering design and fabrication experience across utilities, telecom, transportation, and retail sectors. This foundation supports a comprehensive inspection and asset management approach that addresses both new installations and aging structures requiring immediate attention.

Recognizing that full replacement is often impractical due to cost and safety constraints, EXO developed its “Ex-Tend” approach to manage assets throughout their entire life cycle. From initial quality assurance to ongoing inspection and targeted repairs, this method is designed to extend service life and improve reliability. Supported by data-driven insights, EXO helps clients monitor asset conditions and make informed, strategic decisions.

The Wood Services Foreman / Crew Leader is responsible for conducting thorough inspections of wooden utility poles to ensure compliance with safety standards, structural integrity, and overall quality. This role involves comprehensive assessments, documentation, and reporting of findings to maintain the reliability and safety of utility pole networks. Daily management of a crew consisting of at least one Laborer.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspection Protocol: Execute detailed inspections of wooden utility poles based on established safety guidelines, industry standards, and company protocols.
• Structural Assessment: Evaluate the structural integrity of wooden poles, examining for signs of decay, cracks, splits, insect infestation, or any other compromising factors
• Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with safety regulations, identifying potential hazards and recommending necessary actions for repair or replacement
• Reporting: Accurately record inspection information into data collection application including taking pictures and attaching required information while outlining inspection results, highlighting critical issues, and providing recommendations for corrective measures. Ensure crew member hours are properly documented and recorded and provide approval upon completion
• Collaboration: Liaise with relevant stakeholders to communicate inspection outcomes and support the implementation of recommended actions
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute insights for the enhancement of inspection procedures, tools, or methodologies to optimize efficiency and accuracy
• Leadership: Responsible for overseeing an directing the activities of crew members, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently, safety and to standard. This includes assigning duties, providing guidance and support, training and development, monitoring performance, promoting teamwork and ensuring compliance with company policies and safety regulations.
• Resource and Equipment Readiness : Maintain adequate inventory levels for projects, maintain equipment and tools to ensure readiness for job.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional vocational training or experience in related field preferred.
• Strong planning and task management skills.
• Proficient understanding of wood pole materials, construction, decay mechanisms, and safety standards.
• Exceptional attention to detail and observational skills.
• Proficiency in using hand tools and equipment.
• Capability to perform fieldwork utilizing a shovel to excavate and apply preservatives and protective coatings while adhering to safety protocols.
• Proficient in working independently, prioritizing tasks effectively, and problem solving.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel a minimum of 75%.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• OSHA 10 training.
• Pesticide Applicator License for state of residence.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy objects and equipment.
• Capability to perform physically demanding tasks and for extended periods without excessive fatigue.
• Capability to walk long distances in uneven terrain while carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Good hand-eye coordination essential for operating machinery and tools accurately.
• Ability to handle tools and materials skillfully and safely.
• Ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
• Maintaining physical stability while performing task, especially on uneven or unstable surfaces.

Mental Requirements:

Mental Requirements

• Attention to Detail:

• Precision: Ensuring accuracy in measurements and execution of tasks.
• Awareness: Staying alert to avoid hazards and ensure safety.

• Problem-Solving Skills:

• Critical Thinking: Ability to assess situations and identify solutions to challenges that arise.
• Adaptability: Adjusting methods and strategies as needed when encountering obstacles.

• Communication Skills:

• Clear Communication: Ability to understand and follow instructions and convey information effectively to team members.
• Teamwork: Working well with others, coordinating efforts, and sharing information.

• Safety Consciousness:

• Knowledge of Safety Protocols: Understanding and adhering to safety regulations and best practices.
• Risk Management: Identifying potential hazards and taking steps to mitigate them.

• Technical Knowledge:

• Tool and Equipment Proficiency: Familiarity with the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of digging tools.
• Basic Engineering Understanding: Knowledge of soil types, excavation techniques, and structural considerations.

Summary

The Wood Services Crew Leader is responsible for conducting thorough inspections of wooden utility poles to ensure compliance with safety standards, structural integrity, and overall quality. This role involves comprehensive assessments, documentation, and reporting of findings to maintain the reliability and safety of utility pole networks. Daily management of a crew consisting of at least one Laborer.