Utilities Crew Lead

Utilities Crew Lead

Burns Group is a family-owned business, established in 1977 serving the civil construction and aggregates industry in the Southeast. Our portfolio includes heavy civil, logistics, and recycling divisions. Our core values and dedication to our people guide every aspect of our company. We invite you to contact us and see what it means to be #burnsbuilt.

THE JOB

The Crew Lead is responsible for leading field crews to safely and efficiently execute underground utility and site work according to plan. This includes water, sewer, storm drainage, and related site infrastructure. This role exists to ensure jobs are built right the first time through strong leadership, clear communication, and hands-on execution. The Crew Lead owns daily field operations, crew performance, safety, and quality while serving as the primary point of accountability on the jobsite.

At Burns Crew Leaders function as Foreman or Superintendents.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead daily field operations for assigned crews, ensuring work is completed safely, accurately, and on schedule


• Read and interpret plans, grades, and work scopes to execute projects as designed


• Assign tasks, set daily priorities, and manage crew productivity and job flow


• Operate and oversee the use of heavy equipment and tools as needed to complete work


• Maintain jobsite safety, cleanliness, and organization at all times


• Communicate daily progress, issues, and needs to the Superintendent or Project Manager


• Identify and address field issues quickly, escalating when necessary


• Ensure materials, equipment, and manpower are aligned with daily and weekly work plans

TRAINING, COMPLIANCE, AND PROCESS

• Train crew members on utility installation methods, equipment operation, and safety procedures


• Enforce trench safety, confined space awareness, and all company safety standards


• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional jobsite


• Ensure work meets Burns’ quality standards and project specifications


• Complete daily reports, inspections, and required documentation accurately

LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION

Lead by example through work ethic, professionalism, and accountability

• Serve as a mentor to crew members, helping develop skills and future leaders


• Work closely with Trade Managers, Project Managers and other crews to coordinate work


• Communicate clearly and respectfully with team members, subcontractors, and site contacts

TECHNOLOGY AND SYSTEMS

• Use job-related technology including multi-brand machine control and project documentation tools and software


• Accurately complete digital or written daily reports and time tracking in company platforms


• Demonstrate a willingness to learn new systems and tools

PROJECT EXECUTION AND COORDINATION

• Prepare phase planning, resource planning, and construction schedules.


• Coordinate crews, materials, equipment, and subcontractors.


• Monitor project progress to ensure work is completed on schedule and within budget.


• Properly notify clients of delays related to weather, scope changes, or unforeseen conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED:

• Proven experience leading crews in utilities, dirt work, or site development


• Proven experience leading crews in dirt work, grading, or site development


• Strong understanding of safety practices and jobsite operations


• Ability to read plans, understand grades, and execute work to specification


• Valid driver’s license

PREFERRED:

• Prior experience training or mentoring field employees


• CDL or ability to obtain one


• Experience with HCSS platforms

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

• Crews consistently work safely with no incidents and zero rework


• Projects meet grade, quality, and schedule expectations


• Crew members understand their roles and perform with confidence


• Equipment and materials are used efficiently and responsibly


• Clear, consistent communication flows between the field and management


• The Crew Leader is trusted to own their work and solve problems in the field

WHY BURNS DIRT

Burns Dirt is a growing heavy civil contractor built on accountability, craftsmanship, and long-term thinking. We invest in our people, promote from within, and believe strong field leadership drives strong results. This role offers real influence, career growth, and the opportunity to shape how work gets done.