What does a foreperson do?

Forepeople typically work for construction companies, helping complete new construction and renovation projects according to project plans. They communicate with the management team to determine hiring needs, task deadlines and safety procedures.

They use time management skills to set daily and weekly goals for long-term projects. They then assign tasks to workers and contractors based on each individual’s experience, knowledge and skills. Depending on the company and project, a foreperson may also perform construction work.

Foreperson skills and qualifications

Strong candidates often demonstrate the management, interpersonal and time management skills necessary for success in this role. Attentiveness to detail and a sense of teamwork are also valuable competencies that set top candidates apart.

Skills commonly listed in foreperson job description templates include:

• Ability to interpret schematics, blueprints and technical drawings
• Experience coordinating tasks and tracking project progress with construction management software, such as Fieldwire, Procore and Buildertrend
• Understanding of how to sequence tasks and allocate resources with crew management software, such as Raken, Jobber and WorkMax
• Knowledge of building codes, concrete work, electrical systems, framing, HVAC installation, building material properties, plumbing, foundations, surveying methods and other technical construction topics
• Familiarity with the safe use of hand tools, backhoes, cranes, dump trucks, excavators, forklifts, generators, grading equipment, jackhammers, loaders and welding machines
• Understanding of best practices for cost estimation and budget management, including takeoffs that calculate the materials needed

Foreperson experience requirements

To strengthen your skills-based hiring efforts, consider what transferable skills may help candidates succeed in your foreperson position. For example, candidates might gain construction technical skills through experience as a construction worker or laborer. However, other positions, such as maintenance technician or handyperson, might also prepare candidates for the role.

Forepeople generally need leadership skills, which candidates may develop in several ways. For example, you might consider candidates who have worked as supervisors, managers or trainers within and outside the construction industry.

Foreperson education and training requirements

Forepeople don’t typically need formal education. You might instead consider candidates with training through apprenticeships and postsecondary programs.

In some cases, a foreperson may need to hold a license issued by a state or local government agency to supervise certain construction activities. Your state’s professional licensing department can help you determine the requirements in your area.

Voluntary certification may indicate a quality foreperson candidate. Forepeople can pursue general and trade-specific certifications from organizations such as the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) and the International Masonry Institute (IMI).

Foreperson salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a foreperson is$64,959 per year. Salaries can vary based on employer size, location and candidate skills and experience.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this foreperson job description example doesn’t align with your organization’s needs, check out these job description examples for related fields:

• Construction manager
• Construction project manager
• Construction superintendent

Foreperson job description FAQs

What is the difference between a foreperson and a general foreperson?

Some construction companies may have a general foreperson who oversees an entire project. Forepeople who supervise a team of construction workers may report to them. On other construction sites, the foreperson and general foreperson job titles may be interchangeable.

What qualities make for a good foreperson?

A good foreperson enjoys leading a team and collaborating with others. Individuals who enjoy organizing, planning and problem-solving may be well-suited to the role. The ability to adapt quickly to change can also be beneficial.

Who does a foreperson report to?

On construction sites without a general foreperson, the foreperson typically reports to a mid-level manager. This individual may be a construction manager, a construction project manager or a construction superintendent.

What perks can I offer foreperson candidates?

Mentioning the key benefits of joining your team can help your job description stand out. You might provide a bulleted list of key perks, such as tool replacement allowances, free personal protective equipment (PPE) and use of a company vehicle.