Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Omar Vargas

Lake In The Hills,IL

Summary

Seasoned Bricklayer/Foreman with a proven track record of leading teams to success at Westerm Specialty Contractors. Expert in masonry and worksite safety, I excel in blueprint interpretation and project management, ensuring quality and efficiency. My leadership fosters team cohesion and skill development, significantly enhancing project outcomes.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Bricklayer/foreman

westerm specialty contractors
Glendale Heights, IL
09.2019 - 01.2024
  • Adhered to company policies while leading team members in completing tasks efficiently.
  • Managed the quality control of construction projects by inspecting workmanship and materials used.
  • Reviewed project blueprints and specifications to determine number of workers needed to complete jobs.
  • Kept production team moving forward for progress in daily site operations.
  • Evaluated performance of team members regularly to identify strengths and weaknesses for improvement opportunities.
  • Delegated duties to employees based on skillset.
  • Assisted in resolving conflicts between different contractors or subcontractors at the site.
  • Collaborated with architects and engineers on design changes when necessary.
  • Ensured that all safety protocols were followed while working with hazardous materials.
  • Reported project progress, site problems and labor status to supervisors.
  • Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing safety rules and regulations.
  • Communicated effectively with management regarding daily job activities and status updates.
  • Identified potential problems before they occurred through active monitoring of jobsite conditions.
  • Worked closely with supervisors to determine appropriate staffing levels on job sites.
  • Implemented onsite safety protocols and procedures and properly trained team members on prevention measures.
  • Provided on-site training to new workers in safety procedures, techniques, and task expectations.
  • Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.

Bicklayer

I.W.G.
Des Plaines, IL
05.2017 - 08.2018
  • Measured distance from reference points and marked guidelines to lay out work with plumb bobs and levels.
  • Mixed mortar by hand, wheelbarrow or mechanical mixer.
  • Provided guidance and instruction to apprentices on proper techniques.

Bricklayer

kenna construction
Northbrook, IL
04.2011 - 05.2014
  • layouot work projects per blueprints
  • Installed flashing around window sills, door frames and rooflines.
  • Laid bricks in various patterns according to specifications.
  • Used mechanical cement-mixing equipment or hand tools to prepare cement for use.
  • Assisted other tradespeople such as carpenters, electricians, when necessary.

Apprentice Bricklayer

ceisel masonry
Northbrook, IL
04.2005 - 10.2011
  • Mixed mortar and grout and used to adhere building materials and create structures.
  • Used trowel edges and hammers to break or cut brick and tiles to size.
  • Cleaned up site debris such as broken bricks, mortar mixers and building materials.
  • layup brick
  • cut different size brick and c.m.u. per job requirements
  • observed and learn from journeyman bricklayers

Material Handling Supervisor/Vendor Coordinator

v-s industries
Wheeling, IL
09.1997 - 11.2003
  • Implemented new operational procedures, increasing efficiency.
  • Fostered a positive and motivating work environment, leading to an increase in team morale.
  • Addressed and resolved interpersonal conflicts within the team, maintaining a harmonious work environment.
  • Evaluated employee performance through periodic reviews and documented results accordingly.
  • Monitored employee productivity levels on a regular basis to identify areas of improvement.
  • Performed monthly inventory checks to ensure sufficient stock levels for all products.
  • Responded to customer questions regarding products, prices and availability.
  • Oversaw inventory management, ensuring adequate stock levels and reducing waste.
  • Acted as a liaison between upper management and staff, facilitating open communication.
  • Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.
  • Provided guidance and direction to subordinates regarding job duties and responsibilities.
  • Negotiated with vendors and suppliers to secure advantageous terms and pricing.
  • Trained new employees on company policies and procedures.
  • Created new strategies for improving customer service standards within the organization.
  • Audited company's legal documents to verify compliant policies and procedures.
  • Collaborated with other departments to coordinate workflow processes between teams.
  • Complied with company policies, objectives and communication goals.
  • Conducted weekly meetings with team members to discuss upcoming tasks and project deadlines.
  • Coordinated with other department supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and project alignment.
  • Resolved customer complaints and issues promptly, ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Maintained accurate records of employee performance, attendance, leave requests, and disciplinary actions.

Education

Diploma of Completion - Bricklayer

International Masonry Instutue
Chicago, IL
12-2004

Some College (No Degree) - General Ed.

Wright College
Chicago, IL

High School Diploma -

Steinmetz High School
Chicago, IL
06-1994

Skills

  • Masonry expertise
  • Arch building
  • Block laying
  • Stonework techniques
  • Fireplace installation
  • Brick cutting
  • Wall construction
  • Restoration work
  • Worksite safety
  • Blueprint interpretation
  • Chimney construction
  • Waterproofing techniques
  • caulking expert
  • rigging expert

Certification

  • historical masonry preservation certificate
  • welding certificate
  • chicago boom and scissor lift certificate
  • aac masonry installation certificate
  • fireplace certificate
  • OSHA 30-hour construction safety certified
  • IL internal audit certified
  • Skill Building for Supervisors certified
  • Preventing Sexual Harassment certified

Languages

English
Professional
Spanish
Professional

Timeline

Bricklayer/foreman

westerm specialty contractors
09.2019 - 01.2024

Bicklayer

I.W.G.
05.2017 - 08.2018

Bricklayer

kenna construction
04.2011 - 05.2014

Apprentice Bricklayer

ceisel masonry
04.2005 - 10.2011

Material Handling Supervisor/Vendor Coordinator

v-s industries
09.1997 - 11.2003

Diploma of Completion - Bricklayer

International Masonry Instutue

Some College (No Degree) - General Ed.

Wright College

High School Diploma -

Steinmetz High School
Omar Vargas