What does a construction superintendent do?

I'm considering going into construction after high school, and I'm curious about what a construction superintendent's role involves. Is it more management or hands-on work? Any advice or insights on this career path would be appreciated.

A construction superintendent plays a crucial role in the successful execution of construction projects. This professional often oversees the daily operations on a construction site, ensuring that a project is being carried out according to the planned design, budget, and schedule.

They are typically involved from the beginning to the end of a project, which means they can see a building go from blueprint to completed structure. Their role includes a combination of management and, to a lesser extent, hands-on work.

In terms of management, a construction superintendent is responsible for coordinating and supervising the activities of construction workers and subcontractors, ensuring that work is proceeding on schedule and within budget. They also enforce safety policies and standards, inspect work for quality, coordinate with engineers and architects, and handle any onsite issues or emergencies that may arise.

While a construction superintendent's role is primarily management-focused, hands-on work can certainly come up. They might be directly involved in some aspects of physical construction, and since they're constantly on site, they need knowledge of all the tools, machinery, and processes involved.

Regarding the career path, getting into construction management usually requires experience in the construction industry, and many superintendents start as construction workers and work their way up. There are also formal education programs in construction management that could provide you with a head start. A degree isn't always required, but it could be beneficial for more competitive positions.

Remember that this profession often involves outdoor work and can be physically demanding, with long working hours sometimes required to meet project deadlines.

I hope this gives you a good overview! It's great to see your interest in the construction industry, and being a construction superintendent could be a fulfilling path if the blend of management and on-ground work appeals to you.