Job Description of a Construction Supervisor

A construction supervisor is the backbone of a construction project. Supervisors are responsible for maintaining the daily performance goals of the project's workers. Supervisors coordinate work efforts and ensure activities are sequenced correctly. Typically, a supervisor does not actually perform any construction himself but is in charge of validating work performed by others. A supervisor must be versed in various construction trades so that she may accurately inspect and evaluate the multiple scope elements on a project.

Responsibilities

A construction supervisor has a wide array of job responsibilities. These responsibilities change from day to day depending on the progress of the project and unforeseen events. Some typical duties include evaluating workmanship and quality, ensuring the project schedule is being met, reviewing any plan discrepancies in the field, coordinating activities between subcontractors and resolving any disputes which may arise on the job site. A supervisor must be ready to take on unique challenges daily, with the responsibility of keeping a project on schedule and in budget.

Experience

Construction supervisors must be extremely knowledgeable about the construction industry. Most supervisors have at least 10 years of construction experience. Typically, supervisors began their careers working in the field in a trade (e.g., carpenter or electrician). Supervisors should be familiar with various building methods and the various elements of a project.

Benefits

Construction supervision is typically a well paid career. Supervisors can make in excess of $100,000 and are provided with benefits such as health insurance and vacation time. Most often, supervisors are considered salaried employees and cannot receive overtime. Many supervisors are provided with a company vehicle and gas card since they are required to drive to multiple job sites.

Career Advancement

Supervisors are usually a step under a project manager on a construction company's organizational chart. A supervisor can obtain a promotion to project manager by focusing on the business elements of construction, rather than just execution. Being cognizant of elements such as budget and cost savings will show a construction company that a supervisor is ready for a Project Manager position. Additionally, forming a strong relationship with the project owner will greatly help a supervisor reach the next level.

Misconceptions

Supervisors are not dumb construction workers. Supervisors usually have an education in engineering and are very knowledgeable about building structures. Supervisors are highly educated managers for the construction industry.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics