Excavation Lead Operator​/Acting Foreman

Address 9525 Rickreall Road, Rickreall, OR, 97371, US

Job Description

🚜
Lead from the Seat. Shape the Ground. Build What Comes Next – Join Kroes Northwest as an Excavation Lead Operator / Acting Foreman! 🚜

Position Title: Excavation Lead Operator / Acting Foreman

Company Name: Kroes Northwest

Pay Range: $30–$35 per hour (DOE) — open to higher compensation for the right candidate

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: Rickreall, OR

Industry: General Construction (Commercial, Industrial)

Kroes Northwest is seeking an experienced Excavation Lead Operator / Acting Foreman to lead excavation crews while remaining hands‑on in daily field operations. This role is ideal for a skilled heavy equipment operator ready to step into leadership, support the Excavation Foreman, and take ownership of jobsite safety, quality, and productivity.

You’ll play a critical role in earthwork operations—operating equipment, coordinating crews, and stepping in as Acting Foreman when needed. If you lead by example, understand excavation inside and out, and want long‑term stability with room to grow, this is an opportunity to build a career with purpose.

Kroes Northwest is a family‑focused general contractor specializing in commercial and industrial construction throughout the region. We believe in working hard to live well and understand the importance of consistent work, dependable pay, and a strong safety culture. At KNW, every team member is respected for their skills and contributions, and we focus on building long‑term careers—not just completing projects.

Lead and supervise excavation crews on active job sites

Assign daily tasks and ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule

Support and back up the Excavation Foreman; step in as Acting Foreman when needed

Lead by example to promote professionalism, accountability, and teamwork

• Equipment Operation
  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, dozers, and skid steers.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
  • Ensure equipment is used safely and properly at all times.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Enforce OSHA and company safety policies.
  • Participate in safety meetings and pre‑task planning.
  • Address unsafe conditions or behaviors immediately.
  • Support erosion control and environmental compliance measures.
• Quality Control & Coordination
  • Inspect excavation work for accuracy, quality, and compliance with plans.
  • Coordinate daily excavation activities with the Excavation Foreman and management.
  • Track job progress and provide regular updates to leadership.
  • Assist with documentation and reporting as required.

Train and mentor crew members on equipment operation and jobsite safety.

Support skill development and promote best practices in excavation operations.

• Required
  • Strong experience in excavation and earthmoving operations.
  • Hands‑on experience operating heavy construction equipment.
  • Proven ability to lead crews in a construction environment.
  • Solid understanding of jobsite safety and OSHA standards.
  • Reliable, professional, and able to lead by example.
  • Valid driver’s license.
• Preferred
  • Previous Lead Operator, Lead Man, or Foreman experience.
  • Utility installation, grading, or site development experience.
  • Basic equipment maintenance knowledge.

Ability to lift heavy materials and perform physically demanding tasks.

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods.

Hourly Pay: $30–$35 per hour DOE (higher pay considered for strong candidates)

Insurance: 50% employer‑paid insurance coverage

Retirement: 401(k) with company match

Bonuses:
Performance‑based bonus structure

Growth:
Leadership role with advancement opportunities

Stability:
Long‑term, steady work with a respected regional contractor

Full‑Time

Monday – Friday

Occasional extended hours depending on project needs.

On‑site across commercial and industrial projects throughout the region

Based out of Rickreall, OR

A professional review will be completed as part of the onboarding process, in compliance with applicable laws.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.