| File:Superintendent.jpg A superintendent in the field | |
| Occupation | |
|---|---|
| Names | Superintedent |
Occupation type | Profession |
Activity sectors | construction Civil Engineering |
| Description | |
| Competencies | planning, scheduling, strong work ethic, leadership, understanding of safety regulations, understanding of construction materials, and management skills |
Education required | see professional requirements |
A superintendent is a person that plans, coordinates, and supervises new construction.[1] The specific jobs will vary from job to job, but overall, a superintendent is responsible for operation on site.[2] Construction involves many trades that need to be scheduled properly in order to finish the project on time; therefore, subcontractor coordination is key to the superintendent's job.
Etymologically, superintendent was originally an ecclesiastical word for "bishop" or "minister who supervises churches in a district" in the 1550's. [3] It is still applicable today to the roles that a superintendent plays in the construction industry.
Education and Experience
editTypically the educational requirements for a superintendent are a high school diploma (or GED). Further education is required, but can vary in the specifics. There is a range from 30 credit hours to a bachelors degree in construction building coordination or related fields.[4] The course hours can be combined with work experience in order to meet the requirements of specific companies. It is possible for a superintendent to not have a college degree, but have a lot of construction experience. A minimum of two years of supervisory experience is usually required. Many superintendents are chosen from foreman that have demonstrated leadership qualities.
Construction Role
editSuperintendents are a critical part of the construction process. They are responsible for overseeing all matters that occur in the field. Careful planning and coordination is required in order to have a successful project. Through effective leadership and strong communication superintendents will do well in their field. Other aspects of the construction process that superintendents are responsible for include: interview, training, cost records, inspections, and many other day to day construction issues. [5] Superintendents are responsible to reporting to the owner on the progress in the field and any changes that need to be made.
Salary
editThe average salary for a field superintendent in the United States is $79,825.[6] There is a large range from stating out to having many years of experience.