Do you have an interest in building, engineering, or architecture? Would you like to hold a management position in one of these fields?
Consider becoming a construction field superintendent.
In this article, we'll talk about what construction superintendents do and provide a step-by-step outline to help you achieve this career.
Steps to Become a Construction Superintendent
So, do you have what it takes to become a construction superintendent? Follow the steps below.
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
It is possible to land a construction superintendent job with only a high school diploma or GED. Other employers have additional education requirements, but having your diploma or GED is a prerequisite.
While you are in school, you can prepare for your future career by taking classes in advanced mathematics, statistics, physics, and engineering.
These classes will help you develop basic skills that you'll use daily as a construction superintendent.
2. Consider Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree
Construction projects are becoming more complex and technologically advanced. For this reason, many employers prefer job candidates who hold a bachelor's degree.
As an aspiring construction superintendent, here are a variety of options you can choose from:
These degree programs include specialized courses such as cost estimation, building codes, and project management.
Depending on your chosen program, you will also learn the necessary technical skills in engineering or architecture.
If you are studying full-time, it will take you four to five years to complete your bachelor's degree.
3. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Most construction superintendents get their start working internships and entry-level construction jobs, gaining valuable on-the-job skills and experience.
You may be able to find internships while you are still in school or shortly after graduating. These opportunities allow you to learn from experienced superintendents and build a professional network.
Entry-level jobs in construction are available to those who have at least a high school diploma or GED. They allow you to build on your internship experience and further hone your skills.
You will likely need to work for several years in construction-related positions before becoming a construction superintendent. It takes a long time to gain the skills and experience necessary for the job.
4. Consider Getting Certified
There are several certifications available for construction managers. These certifications demonstrate to potential employers that you have the education and experience to succeed.
Some of the available credentials include:
- Associate Constructor
- Certified Construction Manager
- Certified Professional Constructor
While these certifications are optional, many employers will give preference to job candidates who have them.
5. Apply for Construction Superintendent Jobs
Once you have gained several years of construction experience, you can begin looking for superintendent job openings.
Consider applying for openings within your own company, as many employers prefer to promote from within. You can also search online job boards, company websites, and career fairs.
You may need to undergo on-the-job training specifically for construction superintendents. You may also need to complete ongoing education throughout your career to keep your certifications up to date.
What Does a Construction Superintendent Do?
Construction superintendents manage construction sites. They coordinate and supervise construction teams working on commercial, residential, and other building projects.
Some of their many job duties include:
- Creating cost estimates and budgets
- Hiring, training, and assigning tasks to workers
- Discussing project details with property owners
- Planning projects and adjusting plans to meet deadlines
- Ordering materials and coordinating delivery
Construction superintendents usually have a background in construction management, architecture, or engineering.
In addition to working on buildings, they also manage road and bridge construction projects.
Construction superintendents spend some time in an office setting, but most of their time is spent on-site, overseeing and supervising the project and making adjustments as needed.
Construction superintendents typically work full-time, standard hours. They may be on-call when they are away from work and often have to put in overtime to meet tight deadlines.
What Skills Do Construction Superintendents Have?
Construction superintendents must have an excellent understanding of construction projects, the steps required to complete them, and appropriate safety measures to take.
They must be good communicators with solid interpersonal skills, as they spend a lot of time interacting with various people and coordinating each step of the process.
Construction superintendents should ideally be comfortable in a leadership position. They must be able to confidently make good decisions and provide training and guidance to those under them.
Construction superintendents must be good at planning, well organized, skilled at efficient time management, and multitasking.
They must be able to take an analytical approach to construction projects and should be skilled at problem-solving, as they are responsible for dealing with any issues that come up.
Become a Construction Superintendent Today
Becoming a construction manager takes time, patience, and a willingness to work your way up. If this sounds like a good career for you, follow the steps outlined in this article.
