Powerline Foreman (Live Line Required)
Location: Various sites across Northern and Southern Ontario
Role Overview
This is a working Foreman position responsible for leading a field crew on utility construction projects, with a strong focus on transmission and distribution work.
Typically overseeing a 4-person crew, the Foreman is accountable for daily field execution, safety leadership, and quality delivery in accordance with utility standards and client expectations.
This role is suited for experienced tradespeople stepping into leadership while maintaining strong hands-on involvement in high-voltage environments.
Core Responsibilities
Daily Crew Leadership & Field Execution
- Direct crew activities in alignment with work plans and daily assignments
- Ensure tasks are clearly understood and executed safely and efficiently
- Coordinate tools, materials, and equipment required for daily work
- Address field issues and escalate as needed to maintain progress
- Execute energized (Live Line) work in accordance with approved procedures and switching plans
Safety Leadership & Compliance
- Conduct daily tailboards and field-level hazard assessments
- Enforce PPE, permitting, and safe work practices
- Lead safety discussions focused on energized hazards, minimum approach distances, and Live Line protocols
- Support incident reporting, safety observations, and corrective actions
- Model and reinforce a strong safety culture
Quality Assurance & Task Readiness
- Ensure work meets specifications, drawings, and client requirements
- Support installation checklists, material verification, and photo documentation
- Identify and escalate non-conforming work
- Prepare work areas for inspections and client walkdowns
- Maintain compliance with utility distribution standards and energized work procedures
Time, Tools & Productivity Tracking
- Track crew time and material usage; submit accurate daily reports
- Monitor productivity and identify delays or inefficiencies
- Ensure proper use, care, and storage of equipment and materials
Communication, Team Coordination & Leadership
- Act as primary point of contact for the assigned crew
- Coordinate with other field leaders on adjacent work
- Participate in coordination meetings and clearly communicate direction
- Support onboarding and development of junior crew members
Qualifications & Skills
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in utility construction or related trade work
- Strong technical competency in transmission and distribution work
- Live Line (energized) distribution experience required
- Experience with rubber glove, hot stick, or equivalent Live Line methods (required)
- Proven field leadership and problem-solving ability
- Working knowledge of drawings, specifications, and safety protocols
- Comfortable using digital field tools (timesheets, forms, logs)
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to work in remote and active job site environments
Assets:
- Supervisory training
- Safety certifications (CSTS, WHMIS, First Aid)
Development Path
Foremen demonstrating strong performance in safety, execution, and crew leadership are positioned to progress into General Foreman roles, with expanded responsibility in:
- Scheduling and planning
- Subcontractor coordination
- Quality and documentation oversight
- Broader site management
Additional Information
- LOA provided
- Field-based role with active job site conditions
Equal Opportunity
Forbes Bros Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and inclusive hiring practices. Only candidates meeting the requirements will be contacted.
Pay: From $60.00 per hour
Application question(s):
- Have you directly led a utility construction crew in the field (as a Foreman or equivalent)?
- Do you have direct experience in electrical distribution construction (not just transmission or commercial work)?
- Do you hold a Journeyman Powerline Technician certificate?
Work Location: In person
