Highway Foreperson

Highway Foreperson

The Highway Foreperson serves as a field-based working supervisor responsible for leading and coordinating the work of hourly personnel in the Highway Department. This role bridges the gap between labor and management by overseeing the safety, quality, efficiency, and timeliness of road, bridge, and right-of-way maintenance and construction activities. Key focus areas include supervision and participation in tasks related to grading and ditching, asphalt and concrete repairs and replacements, bridge work and maintenance, traffic operations, asphalt plant and paving operations, road maintenance, and lift bridge operations.

This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and hands-on involvement in field operations. Base Pay Rate: $32.22/hour + $2/hour special assignment pay

While specific responsibilities may vary by assignment, core duties include:

• Supervise and lead highway maintenance and construction crews in the field, acting as a working supervisor.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols, quality standards, productivity goals, purchasing policies, and budgetary constraints.
• Assist with the planning and coordination of daily, weekly, and seasonal work activities.
• Communicate project status, issues, and changes to management in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate records related to labor, materials, and equipment; assist with inventory and procurement as needed.
• Monitor and report field conditions; perform inspections and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• Operate heavy equipment and vehicles, including snowplows and motor graders, especially during winter operations.
• Serve in a rotating on-call capacity for after-hours and emergency response, including weekends and nights.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Additional training or experience in construction, supervision, welding, carpentry, or truck operation preferred.
• Minimum of two years' experience in road construction, bridge, heavy equipment operation, or related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid Wisconsin Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Hazardous Materials (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements.

• Proficiency in roadway grading, excavation, paving, concrete construction, and snow/ice control.
• Ability to operate and maintain heavy equipment under varying conditions.
• Knowledge of MUTCD traffic control standards, temporary/permanent traffic management practices, and detour and flagging operations.
• Working understanding of construction materials, including concrete, asphalt, and aggregate products.
• Ability to read blueprints, interpret survey data, and perform job-related calculations.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to lead and mentor a team.
• Capacity to work extended hours during snow events or emergencies and respond promptly to call-ins.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to conduct minor equipment repairs.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work under a variety of environmental conditions.

• Lift and carry objects up to 75 lbs.
• Regular standing, walking, driving, climbing, and exposure to outdoor elements.
• Use of hands and feet for repetitive actions, control operations, and equipment handling.
• Frequent bending, crouching, twisting, and working on uneven terrain.
• Exposure to extreme temperatures, noise, vibration, and workplace hazards.