What does a construction superintendent do?
Construction superintendents generally work for construction companies and supervise the process of building new structures. Using analytical skills, they can identify the resources needed to complete a construction project and generate cost estimates for the project budget.
When these professionals finish their job duties proficiently, they can help construction workers complete their tasks on time and within budget. They may also identify cost-saving opportunities to maximize the profitability of projects.
For example, their scheduling may help prevent costly delays, or they may create construction takeoffs, which plan the materials and workers needed to complete a project.
Construction superintendent skills and qualifications
Strong candidates often demonstrate planning, organization and time management skills, which may be important for success in this role. Leadership ability and observational skills are also valuable competencies that set top candidates apart.
You might use these skills in your construction superintendent job description:
- Understanding of how to build and update project timelines and budgets with construction management software, such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Buildertrend and Fieldwire
- Experience creating worker and contractor schedules with crew management programs, such as Connecteam and Workyard
- Familiarity with blueprint and document management software, such as Autodesk Constructware and Construction Master Pro
- In-depth knowledge of construction standards, local building codes and safety regulations
- Math and analytical skills to create accurate cost estimations
- Understanding building material properties, such as concrete, steel, masonry, vinyl and lumber
- Ability to identify and address quality control issues and safety and compliance risks
Construction superintendent experience requirements
When taking a skills-based hiring approach, consider what transferable skills candidates may have gained in previous jobs. Leaders on construction sites, such as foremen and crew supervisors, may be familiar with your company’s software programs, best practices and regulations relevant to your construction superintendent role.
Work history in other areas can also prepare candidates for your open position. For example, operations managers and facilities managers may successfully lead multiple teams, control costs, and manage shipments of supplies and materials. Building inspectors and estimators may have beneficial hard skills, such as familiarity with on-site inspections.
Construction superintendent education and training requirements
Construction superintendents don’t generally need formal education. While some construction superintendents may hold post-secondary certificates, diplomas and degrees, others can acquire their skills and knowledge through work in construction and other trade industries.
You may prioritize candidates who have demonstrated knowledge and skills through voluntary certifications. These might include the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) designation awarded by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and the Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) credential granted by the American Institute of Constructors (AIC).
Construction superintendent salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a construction superintendent is $96,470 per year. Factors that impact pay rates can include location, employer size and the candidate’s experience and skills.
Construction superintendent salary expectations
-
Common salary:
98888.27 YEARLY -
Typical salaries range from
36000.00 -191000.00 YEARLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Job description samples for similar positions
If the job description for the construction superintendent doesn’t align with your needs, you can view descriptions for related professions:
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.