Job Description
Job DescriptionGrade 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
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Supervise and coordinate daily activities of the grading crew.
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Serve as the on-site Safety Leader; identify, report, and correct hazards and near-misses.
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Plan and execute daily work based on the project’s 4-week schedule.
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Train and mentor crew members to perform at a high level across all grading operations.
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Maintain accurate daily reports, equipment logs, and timecards.
Field Operations
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Operate and direct the use of heavy equipment for mass excavation, fine grading, and finish work.
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Perform and oversee layout, grade checks, and verification of elevations and slopes.
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Coordinate with survey, utility, and paving crews to ensure seamless sequencing and quality.
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Troubleshoot equipment or grade control system issues and ensure efficient site operations.
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Verify that work meets design grades, compaction standards, and project specifications.
Quality & Production Control
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Monitor and manage moisture, density, and compaction requirements.
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Ensure materials, equipment, and manpower are coordinated for daily production goals.
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Uphold Petticoat-Schmitt’s standards for safety, efficiency, and workmanship.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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In-depth knowledge of earthwork, grading, and compaction techniques.
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Proficient in reading and interpreting plans, contours, and grading layouts.
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Skilled in setup and use of rotary lasers, builder’s levels, and GPS/machine control systems.
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Strong understanding of OSHA and Petticoat-Schmitt safety standards.
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Basic IT proficiency — able to use smartphones and tablets for reporting (e.g., HeavyJob or similar).
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Effective communicator who can set clear expectations and motivate the crew.
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Familiarity with environmental compliance requirements (NPDES, erosion control/BMPs).
Physical Requirements
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Stand or sit for long periods; repetitive use of controls and tools.
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Climb in and out of equipment and trenches.
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Lift up to 40 lbs regularly.
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Work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions.
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Distinguish jobsite sounds (backup alarms, voices, equipment).
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Required PPE: hard hat, eye and hearing protection, high-visibility clothing.
Training & Experience
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3–5 years of experience in earthwork and grading at the foreman level.
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High school diploma or equivalent.
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Competent Person, Confined Space, and NPDES/Erosion Control certifications preferred.
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Proven ability to lead by example and motivate a diverse crew.
You’ll Love It Here If You Live Our A.C.T. Values
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Accountability: Safety first, clear expectations, execute the plan, own outcomes.
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Character: Integrity, respect, trustworthiness, humility — no jerks allowed.
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Team: Shared goals, servant leadership, developing others, and determination to win.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation & Incentives
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Competitive pay with performance-based incentives.
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Monthly Safety Bonus – Earned when the company goes recordable-incident free.
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PTO and Paid Holidays available.
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Training, development, and leadership growth opportunities.
Benefits
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Comprehensive Health Coverage Options: Multiple medical plan choices, including a 100% company-paid High Deductible Health Plan (employee-only coverage).
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Dental, Vision, Short/Long-Term Disability, and Accident Coverage.
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Up to $50,000 employer-paid life insurance.
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401(k) with 100% match on the first 4%.
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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.