superintendent

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If you’ve ever considered a leadership role in the construction industry, becoming a construction superintendent might be the right path for you. Construction superintendents oversee day-to-day operations on job sites, ensuring projects stay on schedule, within budget, and meet safety and quality standards. It’s a high-responsibility role—and the salary reflects that.

What Does a Construction Superintendent Do?

A construction superintendent manages the entire construction process, from the planning stages to project completion. They coordinate with subcontractors, engineers, inspectors, and site workers to make sure each phase of the job moves forward smoothly. These professionals are often on-site daily, resolving issues in real-time and adjusting timelines or plans as needed.

Common responsibilities include:

  • Supervising construction crews and subcontractors
  • Monitoring job progress and scheduling
  • Ensuring site safety and compliance with regulations
  • Coordinating material deliveries and equipment
  • Communicating with project managers, architects, and clients

This role requires both technical expertise and strong leadership skills. A superintendent must be able to make quick decisions, manage a variety of moving parts, and hold team members accountable to deadlines and quality standards.

How Much Does a Construction Superintendent Make?

Let’s get into the numbers. The salary of a construction superintendent can vary depending on location, experience, and the type of projects managed. However, the pay is typically competitive across the board.

Average salary ranges include:

  • Entry-level: $65,000 – $80,000 per year
  • Mid-level: $85,000 – $105,000 per year
  • Senior-level or large commercial projects: $110,000 – $140,000+ per year

In addition to base pay, many superintendents receive bonuses, company vehicles, travel allowances, and other perks—especially in high-demand markets or for managing large-scale projects.

What Affects a Superintendent’s Pay?

Several factors can influence a construction superintendent’s salary, including:

  • Geographic location: Urban areas and regions with active construction markets often offer higher pay.
  • Experience level: As with most roles, the more experience you have, the more you can earn.
  • Project type and size: Large commercial or industrial builds typically come with higher salary offers than smaller residential projects.
  • Certifications: Earning certifications such as OSHA, PMP, or LEED can boost your earning potential.

Career Outlook

Construction is growing, and so is the need for experienced leaders. As infrastructure spending increases nationwide and skilled labor becomes more in demand, now is an excellent time to pursue a superintendent role. The career path is also flexible—many construction superintendents move into project management, operations, or executive leadership over time.

Ready to Step into a Leadership Role?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your construction career and explore superintendent opportunities, NCW is here to help. We connect professionals with top employers in construction across the country. Whether you’re looking to get started or move into a higher-paying leadership role, our recruiting team can guide you through the process.