Utility Foreman

MEB; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Disability and life insurance

HSA / FSA options

Paid time off

Job summary

A full-service construction firm based in Chesapeake, VA is seeking an experienced Utility Foreman to lead utility crew operations. This role involves ensuring safe and efficient installation of underground systems including water and sewer lines. The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of experience in utility installation and a strong understanding of construction methods. Join a growing team that values safety and quality while offering a clear path for advancement in leadership roles.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in utility installation (water, sewer, storm, ductbank).
• Experience leading or directing a crew in the field.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Strong understanding of underground utility installation methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily utility crew operations and set clear expectations for work activities.
• Work alongside the crew during critical operations and complex installations.
• Drive productivity while maintaining quality standards.

Skills

Utility installation expertise

Crew leadership

Construction drawing interpretation

Job description

Overview

Founded in 1982, MEB is a full-service construction firm headquartered in Chesapeake, VA, with a regional office in Richmond, VA. With nearly 500 employees and over $450 million in annual revenue, we deliver complex construction projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic and across the country. We continue to grow year over year, with a strong focus on our people, our clients, and safety.

What We Do

• Water // Wastewater
• Fueling Systems // Storage
• Hospitality // Entertainment
• Manufacturing // Industrial
• Corporate // Government

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability and life insurance
• HSA / FSA options
• Paid time off

Job Summary

This role is responsible for leading a utility crew in the installation of underground systems including water, sewer, storm drain, and ductbank. The Utility Foreman works hands-on with the crew while directing daily operations to ensure work is completed safely, on schedule, and in accordance with project requirements.

The Utility Foreman plays a key role in crew performance, jobsite coordination, and maintaining quality standards, while working closely with Superintendents and project leadership.

Why This Role

• Lead your own crew with direct responsibility for daily production and quality
• Stay hands-on in the work while stepping into a leadership role
• Work on complex utility systems across heavy civil projects
• Clear path to grow into Superintendent-level roles
• Be part of a team that values field input and execution

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily utility crew operations and set clear expectations for work activities
• Work alongside the crew during critical operations and complex installations
• Drive productivity while maintaining quality standards

Safety

• Conduct daily safety briefings and enforce compliance with OSHA and MEB standards
• Monitor jobsite conditions and correct unsafe behaviors or hazards
• Maintain required certifications (OSHA 30, Confined Space, Trenching & Excavation, Rigging & Signaling)

Planning & Coordination

• Plan daily and weekly work activities in alignment with the project schedule
• Coordinate with Superintendents to prepare for upcoming work and material needs
• Support look-ahead planning with input on crew production and task durations
• Lead installation of utility systems including ductile iron, PVC, HDPE, RCP, and steel pipe
• Oversee layout, pipe installation, manholes, and system tie-ins
• Ensure work is performed efficiently and in sequence
• Coordinate delivery, inspection, and storage of materials on site
• Manage assigned equipment and ensure daily inspections are completed
• Report equipment issues and coordinate repairs or replacements

Quality Control

• Ensure all work is installed per plans, specifications, and approved submittals
• Coordinate testing and inspections with QC personnel
• Identify and correct deficiencies in a timely manner

Construction Documents & Communication

• Read and interpret plans, shop drawings, and specifications
• Identify constructability issues and communicate with project leadership
• Escalate risks or conflicts that impact safety, schedule, or quality

Qualifications

Required

• 3+ years of experience in utility installation (water, sewer, storm, ductbank)
• Experience leading or directing a crew in the field
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Strong understanding of underground utility installation methods

Preferred

• Experience on heavy civil or water/wastewater projects
• Previous foreman or lead role experience
• Equipment operation experience related to utility work
• Physical work required, including lifting, working in trenches, and exposure to weather conditions
• Daily coordination with crew members, field leadership, and subcontractors
• This role is best suited for someone who is already performing as a lead or senior utility crew member and is ready to take ownership of a crew, production, and day-to-day execution.

Additional Requirements

• Pre-employment drug screen required
• E-Verify
• Valid driver’s license (DMV review required)
• EOE/Minorities/Females/Disabilities/Veterans
• Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.