Job Description

A foreman is a skilled supervisor who

oversees a team of workers on a job site, ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, on time, and within budget

. As the direct link between field crews and management, a foreman's responsibilities blend hands-on work with important administrative and leadership duties.


Core responsibilities


A foreman's daily tasks are dynamic and can include:

Team supervision:

Manage and direct a crew of workers or subcontractors, assigning daily tasks and coordinating activities to meet project goals.

Project planning:

Develop and maintain work schedules, adjust plans due to unexpected issues like weather or material delays, and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.

Safety enforcement:

Ensure all safety protocols and regulations are followed. This includes conducting safety inspections, providing safety training, and ensuring proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Quality control:

Regularly inspect the work completed by the crew to ensure it meets project specifications and quality standards.

Resource management:

Monitor and manage the inventory, delivery, and proper use of materials, equipment, and tools.

Reporting and documentation:

Maintain daily logs detailing work progress, hours, materials used, and any incidents. These reports are often submitted to project managers or other supervisors.

Problem-solving:

Address and resolve any issues or conflicts that arise on the job site in a timely and effective manner.

Communication:

Act as the primary point of contact between the work crew, project managers, clients, and suppliers.
Skills and qualifications


A successful foreman possesses a combination of technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills:

Leadership:

The ability to motivate, mentor, and lead a team to achieve project goals.

Communication:

Clear verbal and written skills for providing instructions, reporting progress, and resolving conflicts.

Technical expertise:

Deep knowledge of their specific trade (e.g., carpentry, plumbing, electrical) and the ability to interpret technical drawings.

Problem-solving:

Critical thinking to identify issues, analyze situations, and implement practical solutions.

Organization:

Strong time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.

Experience:

Several years of hands-on experience in their trade, often starting as an apprentice or crew member. *

Manufacturing:

Supervising teams on factory floors, ensuring production processes are efficient and meet quality control standards.