You've finalized the design and can already see your finished pole barn standing tall. But have you thought about the hands that will actually build it? The quality of the crew, and more importantly, their leader, is the single most important factor in bringing your vision to life.
Many people believe they must choose between a low price, a fast timeline, or superior quality. For over 65 years, FBi Buildings has challenged that idea. By employing a robust force of skilled crews across the Midwest and innovating with the best materials, we’ve proven that the key to delivering speed and quality is expert leadership on the job site.
That leader is the Crew Foreman. In this article, we’ll pull back the curtain on the responsibilities of our construction crews and show you why a highly skilled Crew Foreman is your greatest asset for a building you'll be proud of for decades to come.
Building a high-quality post-frame structure requires a coordinated team. While company structures can vary, a professional build relies on several key roles to ensure your project is completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standard. Here are the people who bring your building to life.
General Laborer: The hands-on backbone of the crew. A team of 2-5 General Laborers is responsible for the essential day-to-day construction tasks, including site preparation, cutting lumber, setting posts, and installing steel siding and roofing, all under the direction of the Crew Foreman.
Crew Foreman: The on-site project leader and your primary point of contact. The Foreman is an expert builder who reads the blueprints, manages the daily schedule, and directs the General Laborers, assigning tasks based on skill. They are responsible for on-site problem-solving, enforcing safety protocols, and ensuring that the work meets our quality standards.
Subcontractor: A specialized, independent company hired to perform a specific part of the construction process. This includes trades like concrete, electrical, plumbing, insulation, or installing overhead doors. While they report to the General Contractor, the Crew Foreman coordinates with them on-site to ensure their work integrates seamlessly with the overall project schedule.
Crew Manager: The leader of the leaders. A Crew Manager is a highly experienced construction professional who oversees 3-5 different Crew Foremen and their respective job sites. They are responsible for high-level training, quality control across all projects, resolving complex issues, and ensuring that every crew has the necessary resources to succeed. This role guarantees consistency and excellence across the board.
General Contractor (GC): The "CEO" of the entire project. The General Contractor is responsible for the overall management of the build, including obtaining permits, managing the master budget and schedule, and hiring all necessary Subcontractors. While some clients act as their own GC, it is a significant time commitment. Companies like FBi Buildings often serve as or assist in the responsibilities of the General Contractor, providing a single point of responsibility for a seamless customer experience.
Construction requires a person willing to build in varying weather conditions and be adaptable to problem-solving, in order to build a pole building on time and with excellence. What sets a Crew Foreman apart is someone willing to lead and possess the following skills.
They have mastered the craft of pole barn construction, from foundation to finishing touches. They know the "why" behind every step.
2. They Understand the EngineeringA Crew Foreman can read complex blueprints and technical plans, translating the engineer's vision into actionable tasks for the crew.
3. Natural PlannersThey excel at reviewing the day's or week's goals and creating a step-by-step plan to accomplish the task efficiently and in the correct sequence.
4. They Nurture Their PeopleA great Crew Foreman knows their team's strengths and weaknesses, assigning tasks where individuals can succeed and grow.
5. On-Site TrainersThey are constantly teaching, sharing new techniques, and mentoring less-experienced crew members to elevate the entire team's skill level.
6. Exceptional CommunicatorsThis is the glue that holds everything together. They clearly convey plans, expectations, and feedback to the crew, project managers, and sometimes even clients.
The Crew Foreman serves as the cornerstone of on-site operations, responsible for safeguarding the project's critical elements at the ground level. Each day brings unique challenges and opportunities, allowing the Foreman to continuously expand their expertise, adapt their leadership, and refine their skills with every new project.
Our repair and renovation crew foremen are excellent problem solvers. They often work on competitor buildings, such as those of Morton, Cleary, or Lester, to repair old structures damaged by storms or renovate with new metal roofs and siding.
Clear, consistent communication from the Crew Foreman is the critical factor that keeps a project running smoothly and ensures everyone is aligned.
A great Crew Foreman's legacy isn't just the structures they build but the people they develop. They are actively building the next generation of leaders.
When you hire us, you're not just getting a crew; you're getting a dedicated on-site leader. Our foremen are your assurance that your pole barn will be built to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. They are the keepers of our promise to you.
If you have the skills, the leadership potential, and a passion for building, you might have what it takes to be a Crew Foreman on our team. We believe in investing in our people and providing a path for growth. Click here to see our open positions and start building your future with us.
Do you have more questions about pole barn construction crew foremen that is not covered in this article? If you need help designing and planning, please contact FBi Buildings at 800.552.2981 or click here to email us. If you are ready to get a price, click here to request a quote and a member of our customer engagement team will help you determine the next steps of your project.