Wet Utility Foreman (Travel)

ORION; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Orion in Houston is seeking an experienced Wet Utilities Supervisor to lead installation and repair of water, sanitary sewer, and drainage systems. You will read plans, organize crews, ensure safety, quality, and on‑time delivery on site.

The role requires 7+ years in underground utilities, strong leadership, and the ability to work long shifts. You will coordinate with inspectors and subcontractors, maintain daily reports, and help mentor crew members.

Qualifications

• Reading and interpreting blueprints, utility plans, and specifications.
• Ability to work in varying weather and site conditions.
• Able to lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach.
• Demonstrates leadership and communication to manage a crew.

Responsibilities

• Reviews plans, specifications, and schedules to organize tasks for wet utility installation.
• Supervises crew engaged in trenching, pipe laying, manhole installation, backfilling, and compaction.
• Coordinates with the Supervisor on scheduling, manpower, equipment, and materials.

Skills

Leadership

Blueprint reading

Project scheduling

Safety compliance

Team communication

English/Spanish literacy

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Basic Computer Literacy

Job description

Position Summary

The primary purpose of this position is the hands‑on execution of installation, maintenance, and repair of wet utilities, including water lines, sanitary sewer lines, storm drainage systems, and related structures. The incumbent ensures work is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications, drawings, and regulatory standards. The incumbent must have the ability and flexibility to work varying shifts and long hours (8-12 hours). Weekend work and extra hours occur according to production needs and at the discretion of the Supervisor. The incumbent must support the guiding beliefs and core values of Orion, which are centered on Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Teamwork most importantly, with each built upon the all-important foundation of Integrity.

Specific Responsibilities

• Reviews plans, specifications, and schedules to organize and assign tasks for wet utility installation.
• Supervises and directs crew members engaged in trenching, pipe laying, manhole installation, backfilling, and compaction.
• Coordinates with the Superintendent on scheduling, manpower, equipment, and material needs to ensure work is completed on time and within budget.
• Interprets blueprints, grades, and line elevations to ensure accurate installation of utilities.
• Ensures compliance with environmental, safety, and quality standards on all utility projects.
• Monitors progress and inspect work in progress to verify quality and conformance to specifications.
• Communicate with inspectors, engineers, and subcontractors to resolve problems and maintain efficient workflow.
• Maintains daily reports documenting crew activities, equipment usage, material quantities, and project progress.
• Oversees maintenance and care of tools, equipment, and machinery to ensure safe, efficient, and long‑lasting use.
• Trains and mentors crew members in safe work practices and proper installation techniques.
• All employees, current and former, must maintain confidentiality by not disclosing to others any confidential, proprietary or trade secret information belonging to the Company.

EMPLOYEE SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

• Responsible and accountable for incumbent’s own personal safety.
• Responsible and accountable for the safety of all co‑workers and any other incumbents encountered.
• Authorized and obligated to stop work on any task or series of tasks whenever an unsafe condition or situation is anticipated or is observed.
• Complies with all applicable laws, regulations and Company policies and procedures, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
• Reports all violations of applicable laws, regulations or Company policies and procedures promptly, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
• Performs other duties as may be assigned or requested by immediate supervision (such as certification training, safety training, procedure review, etc.).

Position Requirements

A minimum of 7+ years of experience in underground wet utility construction, including water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage systems, is required. Prior experience in a leadership role is strongly preferred. A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Basic computer literacy is needed. Must be literate in either English or Spanish, both preferred. In addition, the incumbent must:

• Be knowledgeable in reading and interpreting blueprints, utility plans, and specifications.
• Be able to work in changing weather and site conditions.
• Be able to lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, and perform other similar activities as needed.
• Demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills to effectively manage a crew.

The Company expects and requires incumbent and each of its other employees to observe and fulfill the above and all other safety responsibilities and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Physical/Mental Requirements

The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation. The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, respirators, ear plugs, steel-toed shoes, or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done. This individual must also have the ability to identify critical issues and formulate action plans with all levels of management, including corporate and executive. The incumbent must possess the ability to remain calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstances of the incident and as directed by the Safety Representative or other management personnel. Must be capable of evacuating the work area in a timely manner should an emergency arise. In addition, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.