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Qualities of a Successful Construction Superintendent

“Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise” was a phrase coined by Benjamin Franklin long before the “Superintendent” title existed.

The advice presented in this axiom is certainly taken up by those with whom our career matchmaking team identify as the most-marketable construction superintendents.

References for candidates who fit this description often tell us things such as:

• “He is the first on the jobsite and the last to leave”.

• “He knows who comes and goes on the work-site for which he is responsible”.

• “He takes ownership of his responsibilities”. (also read: Don’t Assume They Own it!)

These candidates’ sub-contractor references often tell us they know how to drive a project schedule, sequence the scheduled trades, and provide the necessary project updates and parameters.

Their executive references will verify they are proficient in all the appropriate technological platforms (such as Procore, PlanGrid, Buildertrend, etc.). More importantly, these references will verify that the candidates communicate respectfully with everyone, recognizing the importance of the project and dignity of each person on the team.

Balancing Work and Health for Construction Superintendents

The best superintendents tend to be extremely healthy, partly because they constantly walk about the jobsite and engage with others around them. They have no time for a cigarette break and often use their mealtime to catch up with their administrative teammates. When they are not on an active jobsite, they designate someone to cover for them and seek regular updates if they are absent for any significant time.

In my twenty-five years of career placement, I have found it common to interview a seventy-year-old superintendent with a physical fitness superior to that of many fifty-year-olds. They love their jobs, and even after retirement, many are involved with hobbies that permit them to continue building and creating.

The Super Superintendent is In Demand and Well Compensated

These most-marketable field managers also tend to be quite wealthy. In addition to possessing a wealth of knowledge about the industry (which they are often willing to share), they are usually compensated well too. A high-quality superintendent will rarely have to worry about finding offers, for such managers are always in high demand.

Sub-Contractor Relationships and Contract Structures in Construction Management

The “A”-rated superintendent is also aware of the work environment with which he best fits. He understands the importance of safety and will want to work for executives who value it too. He understands the importance of sub-contractor relationships and will therefore seek out employers who structure contracts properly.

The Super Superintendent is Loyal, Committed, and Flexible

While these managers will doubtlessly be wise to inadequate support staff, they also are typically the first ones to offer to mentor a less-experienced professional. They are loyal and complete a project to which they are committed, even if the employer is not the best fit, because they realize the importance of adhering to what they said they would do.

These general qualities are then combined with the individual’s specific flexibilities and qualifications to determine which job and compensation opportunities are available to him. It certainly helps if the candidate is willing to travel, relocate, or work night shifts as needed. Other factors include experience leading large teams on sophisticated projects and the ability to assist in preconstruction between projects.

Leadership by Servanthood in Construction Superintendent Roles

One indication that a superintendent candidate falls into this category is that his planning, communication, and execution skills are exhibited not only on a project but also in his daily life. They are true leaders by servanthood, and those around them notice it.

Another one of Benjamin Franklin’s famous quotes is, “Do not fear mistakes. You will know failure. Continue to reach out.” Franklin was known as a scientist and inventor, and while many of his early pursuits concluded in failure, he learned from these mistakes in the hope of overcoming his weaknesses with self-discipline.

If you are not currently achieving your career goals as a superintendent, we are always available to help you with a career plan.

Next week, we will address the qualifications necessary for field operations managers and company general superintendents

Until then, be healthy, wealthy, and wise,

Suzanne Breistol