Grade/Dirt Foreman

Grade Foreman — Site Development & Earthwork Construction

Location: Jacksonville, FL
Employment Type: Full-Time

At Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc., we don’t just move dirt — we build life-changing infrastructure. As a privately owned, employee-owned civil contractor, we specialize in site development, grading, utilities, roadway, and water/wastewater construction throughout the Southeast.

We’re seeking an experienced Grade Foreman to lead earthwork and grading operations for large-scale site development projects in Northeast Florida. In this role, you’ll direct crews, oversee production and safety, and ensure precise, efficient, and high-quality grading work.

If you take pride in delivering work that’s done right the first time — and want to be part of a team that values Accountability, Character, and Teamwork (A.C.T.) — we want to meet you.

What You’ll Do

Leadership & Planning

• Supervise and coordinate daily activities of the grading crew.

• Serve as the on-site Safety Leader; identify, report, and correct hazards and near-misses.

• Plan and execute daily work based on the project’s 4-week schedule.

• Train and mentor crew members to perform at a high level across all grading operations.

• Maintain accurate daily reports, equipment logs, and timecards.

Field Operations

• Operate and direct the use of heavy equipment for mass excavation, fine grading, and finish work.

• Perform and oversee layout, grade checks, and verification of elevations and slopes.

• Coordinate with survey, utility, and paving crews to ensure seamless sequencing and quality.

• Troubleshoot equipment or grade control system issues and ensure efficient site operations.

• Verify that work meets design grades, compaction standards, and project specifications.

Quality & Production Control

• Monitor and manage moisture, density, and compaction requirements.

• Ensure materials, equipment, and manpower are coordinated for daily production goals.

• Uphold Petticoat-Schmitt’s standards for safety, efficiency, and workmanship.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of earthwork, grading, and compaction techniques.

• Proficient in reading and interpreting plans, contours, and grading layouts.

• Skilled in setup and use of rotary lasers, builder’s levels, and GPS/machine control systems.

• Strong understanding of OSHA and Petticoat-Schmitt safety standards.

• Basic IT proficiency — able to use smartphones and tablets for reporting (e.g., HeavyJob or similar).

• Effective communicator who can set clear expectations and motivate the crew.

• Familiarity with environmental compliance requirements (NPDES, erosion control/BMPs).

Physical Requirements

• Stand or sit for long periods; repetitive use of controls and tools.

• Climb in and out of equipment and trenches.

• Lift up to 40 lbs regularly.

• Work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions.

• Distinguish jobsite sounds (backup alarms, voices, equipment).

• Required PPE: hard hat, eye and hearing protection, high-visibility clothing.

Training & Experience

• 3–5 years of experience in earthwork and grading at the foreman level.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Competent Person, Confined Space, and NPDES/Erosion Control certifications preferred.

• Proven ability to lead by example and motivate a diverse crew.

You’ll Love It Here If You Live Our A.C.T. Values

• Accountability: Safety first, clear expectations, execute the plan, own outcomes.

• Character: Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility — no jerks allowed.

• Team: Shared goals, servant leadership, developing others, and determination to win.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation & Incentives

• Competitive pay with performance-based incentives.

• Monthly Safety Bonus – Earned when the company goes recordable-incident free.

• PTO and Paid Holidays available.

• Training, development, and leadership growth opportunities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage Options: Multiple medical plan choices, including a 100% company-paid High Deductible Health Plan (employee-only coverage).

• Dental, Vision, Short/Long-Term Disability, and Accident Coverage.

• Up to $50,000 employer-paid life insurance.

• 401(k) with 100% match on the first 4%.

• Employee-Owned (ESOP): Every team member has a direct stake in the company’s success.

About Petticoat-Schmitt

Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL since 2007, Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is a privately owned, employee-owned civil contracting firm specializing in site development, underground utilities, roadway, and water/wastewater treatment plant construction throughout the Southeast.

Petticoat-Schmitt Civil Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.