Highway Foreman

Thornton Township • South Holland, IL

9d • $60,000 - $71,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Highway Foreman assists the Highway Commissioner in directing the daily operations of the Highway Department. This working supervisor plans, assigns, and oversees roadway maintenance activities while ensuring safe operations, regulatory compliance, efficient service delivery, and high-quality public works services for Thornton Township.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum five (5) years of municipal public works experience.
• Experience operating heavy equipment and commercial vehicles.
• Leadership and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of roadway maintenance operations.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and emergency situations.
• Valid Illinois driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Successful background investigation, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, and post-offer physical examination if required.
• Must comply with all Thornton Township policies and procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree in Public Works, Construction Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Class B CDL required within six (6) months of hire; Class A CDL preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, assign, and supervise daily work assignments.
• Oversee roadway maintenance, pothole repair, drainage improvements, mowing, tree trimming, signage, and right-of-way maintenance.
• Inspect completed work to ensure quality standards are met.
• Operate heavy equipment when operationally necessary.
• Supervise Highway Department employees and seasonal staff.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, scheduling, and training.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching.
• Recommend disciplinary action and recognize employee performance.
• Coordinate overtime and staffing assignments.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, MUTCD, IDOT, Township policies, and applicable regulations.
• Conduct safety meetings and enforce PPE requirements.
• Investigate accidents and implement corrective actions.
• Monitor equipment readiness and preventive maintenance.
• Maintain equipment logs, inventory records, and work orders.
• Coordinate snow and ice removal operations.
• Respond to emergencies including storms, flooding, and roadway hazards.
• Be available for evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs.
• Prepare daily reports and operational documentation.
• Respond professionally to resident concerns.
• Perform other duties assigned by the Highway Commissioner.
• Direct supervision of Highway Department maintenance employees, equipment operators, and seasonal personnel.
• Promote accountability, teamwork, safety, and employee development.

Benefits

• Employees are eligible for Thornton Township's comprehensive benefits package in accordance with Township policies.
• Overtime compensation in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Thornton Township personnel policies.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED