General Foreman – Earthworks

SUMMARY:
General Foreman – Earthworks
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This position is currently based in Durban for the duration of the project. Upon completion, the successful candidate may be deployed to other project sites across South Africa, depending on operational requirements.

Candidates must therefore be willing and able to relocate nationally

 
Job Purpose:
To oversee and manage all earthworks operations on site, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The role combines hands-on site supervision with production planning and resource management.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

1. Site Management & Supervision

• Supervise and coordinate daily earthworks activities on site
• Ensure work is executed according to drawings, specifications, and method statements
• Manage and lead site foremen, operators, and labor teams
• Manage of Sub Contractors that form part of the Earthworks Team
• Monitor productivity and implement improvements where necessary

1. Production Planning

• Develop and manage short-term and long-term production schedules
• Allocate plant, equipment, and labor efficiently
• Track daily production outputs against targets
• Identify risks to progress and implement corrective actions

1. Health & Safety Compliance

• Enforce compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
• Conduct toolbox talks, risk assessments, and safety inspections
• Ensure safe operation of plant and equipment
• Report and investigate incidents and near misses

1. Quality Control

• Ensure all work meets required engineering and quality standards
• Coordinate with surveyors for levels, setting out, and final checks
• Oversee compaction, layer works, and material compliance

1. Plant & Equipment Management

• Oversee utilization and maintenance of earthmoving equipment
• Coordinate repairs and preventative maintenance
• Monitor fuel usage and equipment efficiency

1. Cost Control

• Monitor site costs and production efficiency
• Minimize waste and prevent rework
• Assist with budgeting and cost forecasting

1. Reporting & Communication

• Provide daily and weekly production reports
• Liaise with engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers
• Attend site meetings and contribute to progress discussions

• National Diploma / Degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management (preferred)
• Relevant trade or foreman qualification with strong experience will be considered

• Minimum 10 - 15 years’ experience in earthworks and civil construction
• At least 5 years in a supervisory or management role
• Proven experience on bulk earthworks, roadworks, or infrastructure projects

• Strong knowledge of earthworks processes (cut/fill, compaction, layer works)
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings
• Experience with GPS machine control systems (advantageous)
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word)

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent planning and organizational ability
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Valid driver’s license
• Willingness to work long hours and travel if required
• Medically fit to work on construction sites

• Market-related salary (based on experience)
• Company vehicle (if applicable)
• Other benefits as per company policy