What are the responsibilities and job description for the Earthworks Foreman position at Merritt Contracting?
About Merritt Contracting
At Merritt Contracting, we build more than just projects — we build careers. Since 1995, our crews have helped us become a local leader in civil and concrete construction across Indiana. The Merritt Way means doing the job safely, delivering quality work, and moving efficiently as a team.
We’re always looking for hardworking people who want steady work, respect on the job, and opportunities to grow. We are proudly an employee-owned (ESOP) company.
Position Summary
We’re looking for an experienced Earthworks Foreman to lead crews on civil construction projects involving sitework, grading, excavation, and utilities support.
This is a hands-on leadership role. You should be comfortable running a crew, coordinating equipment, reading plans, and keeping production moving safely and efficiently. You won’t just be telling people what to do — you’ll be leading from the front and making sure the job gets done right.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead and manage crews performing earthwork, grading, excavation, and site prep
- Coordinate daily activities with operators, laborers, and truck drivers
- Read and interpret plans, grades, and stakes
- Work with project managers and superintendents to plan daily and weekly work
- Ensure proper site layout, elevations, and grading tolerances are met
- Oversee equipment usage (dozers, excavators, loaders, etc.)
- Maintain production while keeping a strong focus on safety and quality
- Identify and solve problems in the field before they slow down the job
- Keep the jobsite organized, efficient, and moving forward
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Foreman or Lead in earthwork / civil construction
- Strong understanding of:
- Grading and sitework
- Excavation and backfill
- Reading plans and grades
- Working around utilities
- Ability to lead crews and communicate clearly on the jobsite
- Experience working with heavy equipment and coordinating operators
- Strong work ethic — shows up, takes ownership, and keeps things moving
- Valid driver’s license
Why Work With Us
- Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
- Short Term & Long Term Disability
- Employer-Paid Life Insurance
- PTO Accrual & Holiday Pay
- 401(k) with Company Match
- ESOP participation after one year (employee-owned company)
- Weather Time Off
Merritt Contracting is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Employment decisions at Merritt Contracting — including decisions related to hiring, promotion, demotion, transfer, layoff, termination, compensation, benefits, training, and all other terms and conditions of employment — are made based on merit, qualifications, work performance, and the needs of the business.