Excavation Lead Operator​/Acting Foreman

Position: Excavation Lead Operator / Acting Foreman
Location: Rickreall

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)

Job Overview

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.

Who We Are

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.

Learn more at

Key Responsibilities

• Field Leadership & Crew Supervision
  • 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
• Training & Mentorship
  • Train and mentor crew members on equipment operation and jobsite safety
  • Support skill development and promote best practices in excavation operations

Qualifications

• 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

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift heavy materials and perform physically demanding tasks
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods

Compensation & Benefits

• 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

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday - Friday
• Occasional extended hours depending on project needs

Work Location

• On-site across commercial and industrial projects throughout the region
• Based out of Rickreall, OR

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.

Compliance Statement

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

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