If you’re looking for a career in construction management, an assistant construction superintendent would be a fantastic position to start your career. An assistant construction superintendent supports the superintendent and project manager to complete projects. Workers in this position need to have a solid knowledge of local, quality, and safety guidelines and a deep understanding of construction operations and processes.
An assistant construction superintendent is expected to oversee job site safety and quality, and work with architects and consultants to solve constructability issues. This job is an entry-level construction management position that offers an opportunity to grow into more advanced management positions in construction.
This career opportunity comes with great responsibility. Assistant construction superintendents need to be diligent in their work as they perform daily job site evaluations and safety audit reports. It is important to be organized and have good time management skills to ensure construction projects are completed on time.
Sample job description
Assistant construction superintendents work closely with the superintendent to help manage construction sites. Some of their key responsibilities include managing schedules, supervising workers, meeting with clients, and budgeting. In order to fulfill this position efficiently, the assistant construction superintendent must work well with others and possess exceptional communication skills. [Your Company Name] is hiring an experienced assistant construction superintendent to help oversee construction projects. If you have experience in construction and an in-depth knowledge of health and safety laws, this position at our company could be the perfect fit.
Typical duties and responsibilities
- Create work schedules
- Help supervise construction workers
- Conduct health and safety inspections
- Monitor progress on projects
- Meet deadlines
- Meet and confer with clients
Education and experience
Assistant construction superintendents need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. A bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or vocational school program would be helpful, ideally in a construction-related field. Employers usually offer on-the-job training for their specific needs.
Required skills and qualifications
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Time-management skills and the ability to meet deadlines
- Knowledge of health and safety laws
- Outstanding decision-making skills
- Calm, professional demeanor
- Ability to multitask
- Keen attention to detail
Preferred qualifications
- Exceptionally responsible
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to oversee construction sites to ensure projects are completed smoothly and safely
- Meet client and customer expectations
- Be able to multitask and build positive relationships with clients and crew members
- Prior experience as a construction foreman or equivalent role
Typical work environment
Assistant construction superintendents typically work at the construction site. They usually work 40-hour work weeks, however some projects require them to work overtime to meet deadlines. Assistant construction superintendents may also be on call during the evenings or weekends in case of an emergency at the worksite. Their work week consists of assisting the superintendent with tasks, conferring with the superintendent and other managers about budgets and schedules, meeting with clients, and supervising employees, contractors, and subcontractors.
Typical hours
Assistant construction superintendents often work regular hours, usually at a job site instead of in the office. They sometimes log more than 40 hours a week and may need to be on call in the evenings or on weekends to meet deadlines or in case of an emergency.
Available certifications
Although typically not required, there are many certifications that can help you advance in your career as an assistant construction superintendent. Check out the following:
- EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA) – The EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA) is a comprehensive, equipment-specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM) – The Certified Construction Manager (CCM) demonstrates your ability to manage costs and safely deliver projects on time. The CMM provides professional services which apply effective management techniques to the planning, design, and construction of a project from inception to completion to control time, cost, and quality. Candidates must meet education and experience requirements and pass a technical exam. Candidates must also complete a self-study course that covers topics related to construction managers, including the manager’s role, legal issues, and risk allocation. Renewal is required every 3 years.
Career path
The first step to becoming an assistant construction superintendent is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Graduates who continue their education and receive an associate’s or bachelor’s degree will improve their job prospects. Most employers provide on-the-job training. With experience and outstanding performance, an assistant superintendent can be promoted to construction superintendent. Several types of certifications are available as well.
US, Bureau of Labor Statistics’ job outlook
SOC Code: 11-9021
| 2020 Employment | 448,000 |
| Projected Employment in 2030 | 499,400 |
| Projected 2020-2030 Percentage Shift | 11% increase |
| Projected 2020-2030 Numeric Shift | 51,400 increase |
Position trends
Population growth means that construction-related jobs and assistant superintendents, in particular, will continue to be in demand. Maintenance, improvements, and construction of roads and bridges also will create more job opportunities. The emphasis on environmentally friendly development and energy efficiency should give the industry a boost as well.
Job prospects in the construction industry tend to ebb and flow with the economy. The Construction Management Association of America offers career coaching, a learning center, and job listings for candidates. Another good resource is the American Institute of Constructors.