James E Fulton & Sons, Inc

Lead Man (Junior Foreman)

Location: Kalamazoo, MI (local work within ~50 miles)

Ready to take the next step between operator and foreman? If you can run equipment, keep a crew moving, and take ownership when the foreman steps away, this role is built for you. We're looking for a Lead Man (Junior Foreman) who leads from the front, working with the team, not above it, and helps deliver clean, high-quality work we're proud to put our name on.

James E Fulton & Sons is a family-owned excavating and trucking contractor serving Southwest Michigan. We've built our reputation on quality work, outstanding service, and a committed team, and we've been doing it for decades. Around town, you'll recognize our yellow-and-white fleet, a legacy built on visibility, pride, and equipment that's kept clean and maintained.

The Lead Man (Junior Foreman) is the bridge between the foreman and the crew. You'll run the job when the foreman is in meetings or offsite, coordinate day-to-day execution, and still spend plenty of time doing real work, operating equipment, and pitching in with labor when needed. This is a hands-on leadership role with a clear path to Foreman for the right person.

We use a simple app-based system for timekeeping and basic job tracking, so comfort with basic mobile tech is important.

Responsibilities

• Step in as acting leader when the foreman is away (coordinate crew, pace, and priorities)
• Keep production moving: plan daily tasks, communicate expectations, and problem-solve in real time
• Operate equipment as needed (machine time is part of the role)
• Work alongside the crew on labor tasks when required (this is a team-first environment)
• Coordinate materials, trucking, and jobsite logistics so work doesn't stall
• Maintain a safe jobsite: enforce PPE, spotting practices, and hazard awareness
• Communicate clearly with foreman/ownership, subcontractors, and onsite contacts
• Complete basic job paperwork/time reporting using a mobile app
• Help train and support developing team members (set the tone for work quality and professionalism)

Qualifications

• Strong civil construction background (underground utilities/site work experience preferred)
• Prior experience as a crew leader, lead operator, or "right-hand" to a foreman preferred
• Able to lead people with a calm, respectful, get-it-done approach
• Comfortable operating equipment and understanding job flow (grading/utilities exposure is a plus)
• Able to communicate clearly in English for safety coordination and job documentation
• Valid driver's license and reliable attendance
• Physically able to handle active jobsite work (outdoors, variable conditions, lifting/bending/climbing)
• Able to pass pre-employment drug screening and participate in random testing as applicable
• Comfortable using a phone/tablet app for time and basic job reporting

Pay & Benefits

• Full-time opportunity, W-2 Employment
• Pay: $28 to $34 per hour, depending on experience/qualifications
• Health insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid holidays
• Schedule
• Day shift with job-based start/end time
• Overtime/ occasional weekends (seasonal needs & snow/emergency work)

We are an equal opportunity employer and recruit, hire, train, and promote without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law, including Michigan's civil rights protections. If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply or participate in the hiring process, let us know.