R-2 Contractors is seeking an experienced and motivated Utility-Scale Trenching Foreman to lead field crews performing high-production trenching and underground conduit installation on utility-scale power, renewable energy, transmission, and substation projects throughout the United States. This field leadership role is responsible for safely planning, coordinating, and executing daily trenching operations while delivering high-quality workmanship, developing crew members, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
Working closely with the Superintendent and Project Management team, the Trenching Foreman oversees day-to-day field operations, including crew leadership, production planning, trenching, single-pass mechanical laying, underground conduit installation, cable lay box operations, bedding placement, warning mesh installation, backfilling, restoration, equipment utilization, and quality control. Success in this role is measured by the ability to build productive crews, consistently deliver quality work, maintain a safe jobsite, and exemplify the R-2 standard of excellence.
Position: Utility-Scale Trenching Foreman
Location: Nationwide job sites
Travel Requirements:
• This is a field-based position requiring 100% travel to active project sites throughout the United States
• Candidates must be willing to travel extensively and work extended schedules as required to support project demands

Salary: $40 - $55 per hour DOE (based on local union rates)
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and supervise daily trenching and underground conduit installation activities for utility-scale infrastructure projects
• Plan daily work assignments and coordinate crews, equipment, materials, subcontractors, and production activities
• Read and interpret project drawings, specifications, trench profiles, utility layouts, and construction documents
• Coordinate high-production trenching, single-pass mechanical laying, cable lay box operations, conduit installation, bedding placement, warning mesh installation, backfilling, and restoration activities
• Ensure trenching operations are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications and quality standards
• Monitor daily production, manpower, equipment utilization, and project progress
• Coordinate the operation of trenchers, rock saws, cable lay box systems, excavators, loaders, and other support equipment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while promoting a strong safety culture
• Coordinate with Superintendents, Project Managers, survey crews, inspectors, subcontractors, and suppliers
• Identify field issues and proactively communicate solutions before they impact production
• Train, mentor, and develop crew members while building future field leaders
• Complete daily reports, production tracking, and required project documentation
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement throughout the crew
• Lead by example while living and reinforcing the R-2 Core Values every day
Requirements:
• Minimum 5 years of utility-scale trenching, underground utility, or heavy civil construction experience
• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Trenching Foreman leading field crews
• Strong knowledge of high-production trenching, underground conduit installation, single-pass mechanical laying, trench safety, bedding placement, warning mesh installation, backfilling, and restoration
• Experience operating or supervising Tesmec trenchers, Vermeer trenchers, rock saws, cable lay box systems, excavators, and other trenching equipment
• Ability to read and interpret project drawings, utility layouts, trench profiles, and construction specifications
• Ability to lead multiple craft personnel while maintaining productivity, quality, and safety
• Strong understanding of trenching methods, underground utility installation, equipment utilization, and quality standards
• Excellent communication, leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build strong working relationships with Superintendents, Project Managers, customers, and field personnel
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, accountability, quality workmanship, and operational excellence
• Willingness to travel nationwide and work extended hours as project schedules require
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background check
What Success Looks Like:
The successful Utility-Scale Trenching Foreman:
• Builds a crew that works safely, efficiently, and takes pride in producing quality work
• Consistently delivers trenching and underground conduit installations that meet project specifications and production goals
• Successfully leads high-production single-pass mechanical laying operations that improve safety, quality, and productivity
• Develops crew members into future Foremen and Superintendents
• Earns the trust and confidence of customers, inspectors, and project leadership through reliable execution
• Plans ahead, communicates effectively, and resolves field challenges before they impact production
• Strengthens R-2 by continuously improving safety, quality, productivity, and teamwork
Union Wages & Benefits:
• Union Wages
• Union Retirement
• Paid Time Off (PTO) / Sick Leave
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus
Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're ready to lead utility-scale concrete crews, develop exceptional field personnel, and help build some of the nation's most critical power infrastructure projects, we'd love to hear from you.
At R-2 Contractors, we don't simply place concrete-we build infrastructure, develop leaders, strengthen teams, and create a culture that refuses to settle for anything less than excellence.
Apply today and help us build what's next.