Foreman – Wet Utility (Public Works Construction)

Lead the Crew, Build the Future – Foreman – Wet Utility (Public Works Construction) at CEM Construction

Job Title: Foreman – Wet Utility (Public Works Construction)
Company: CEM Construction Corp
Location: Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding areas
Salary: Hourly (prevailing wage plus fringe benefits)
Employment Type: Full-Time | Monday – Friday
Industry: Civil Construction / Utilities / Public Works

About the Role:
CEM Construction Corp is looking for an experienced and safety-focused Foreman – Wet Utility to lead field crews in the installation and maintenance of underground utility systems, including potable water, sanitary sewer, and storm drains. This hands-on leadership position is critical for delivering high-quality public works projects across Southern California. You will manage daily field operations, ensure compliance with regulations, enforce safety standards, and drive crew productivity on-site.

About CEM Construction Corp:
CEM Construction Corp is committed to building strong, lasting infrastructure for the communities we serve. Specializing in civil construction and wet utility work, our team values safety, teamwork, and technical excellence. We operate on union and prevailing wage projects throughout Los Angeles County, providing stable employment, weekly pay, and opportunities for professional growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise and lead field crews, including equipment operators, pipe layers, and laborers
• Manage excavation, installation, and backfill of wet utility systems on public works projects
• Read and interpret project plans, grade sheets, and civil utility drawings
• Coordinate equipment, materials, and manpower to meet production targets
• Ensure all work follows Cal/OSHA, trenching, confined space, and environmental regulations
• Communicate effectively with superintendents, inspectors, and agency representatives to resolve field issues
• Maintain project records, including daily logs, crew hours, equipment usage, and field changes
• Monitor installation quality and prepare for public agency inspections
• Conduct toolbox talks and enforce daily jobsite safety procedures
• Mentor and develop crew members to enhance skills and maintain company standards

Qualifications:

Experience & Education:

• 5+ years in underground wet utility construction, including 2+ years as a foreman or crew lead
• Prior experience on public works or municipal projects required

Licenses & Certifications:

• Valid driver’s license (Class A or B preferred)
• OSHA 30 Certification preferred or required
• CPR/First Aid Certification is a plus
• Competent Person Certification (trenching & excavation) preferred

Skills & Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of water, sewer, and storm utility systems
• Knowledge of Caltrans, local DPW, and agency specifications
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and project documentation
• Familiarity with prevailing wage requirements and public works reporting

Benefits:

• Weekly Pay Cycle
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holidays)
• Prevailing Wage Fringe Benefits (public projects)
• Company Vehicle or Vehicle Allowance (if applicable)
• Paid Certifications and Safety Training
• Career Development & Leadership Opportunities
• Company Events & Team Culture

Schedule:

• Full-Time, Monday-Friday
• 8-10 hour shifts; overtime or weekend work as needed by project schedule

Work Location:

• Field sites across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas
• Must be open to regional travel between job sites

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: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.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $46.00 - $60.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Experience:

• underground wet utility construction: 5 years (Required)
• Foreman or crew lead: 2 years (Required)
• wet utility systems (water, sewer, storm): 1 year (Required)
• Caltrans, local DPW, and agency specs: 1 year (Required)
• Prevailing wage requirements and public works documentation: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• CDL (Required)
• OSHA 30 (Required)
• CPR Certification (Preferred)
• First Aid Certification (Preferred)
• Competent Person Certification (trenching & excavation) (Preferred)

Location:

• Los Angeles, CA (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Los Angeles, CA (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Los Angeles, CA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person