Groundworks Foreman / Site Manager
Location: Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Our client, a leading Irish main contractor, is seeking an experienced Groundworks Foreman / Site Manager to join their team on a major public-sector development in Portlaoise.
This is a key site-based role on a large-scale refurbishment and new-build project involving significant enabling works, structural alterations, and construction of new facilities within a live and historically sensitive environment.
The successful candidate will take responsibility for managing groundworks and early-stage site operations, progressing into wider site management duties as the project develops. You will play a key role in driving programme, coordinating subcontractors, and ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery on site.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and coordinate all groundworks and enabling works packages
- Oversee site set-up, logistics, and day-to-day operations
- Supervise subcontractors, direct labour, and site activities
- Ensure works are delivered in line with programme requirements
- Maintain strict health & safety standards across all site operations
- Carry out site inductions, toolbox talks, and safety briefings
- Monitor quality control and ensure compliance with specifications
- Liaise with engineers, project managers, and design teams
- Assist in sequencing and planning of works
- Support smooth transition from groundworks phase into main build stages
Requirements
- Proven experience in a Groundworks Foreman or Site Manager role
- Strong background in civil engineering, enabling works, or early-stage construction
- Experience working with main contractors on commercial or public-sector projects
- Strong leadership and site coordination skills
- Solid understanding of construction sequencing and site logistics
- Excellent knowledge of health & safety procedures and compliance
- Ability to read drawings and work closely with engineers and setting out teams
- Trade background or construction qualification desirable
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary package (DOE)
- Company vehicle or allowance
- Pension scheme
- Performance-related bonus
- Long-term pipeline of secured work in the region
- Strong career progression opportunities
- Exposure to large-scale, high-profile public infrastructure projects
- Supportive and well-structured site team environment
- Ongoing training and professional development
Why Apply?
This is a strong opportunity for an experienced groundworks professional looking to take the next step into a more senior site-based role on a major project. You’ll be joining a well-established contractor with a solid reputation for delivering complex, high-quality builds across Ireland.
If you want responsibility, stability, and the chance to be part of a significant live project from early stages through to completion, this role will suit you well.
