In commercial construction there is a nearly unlimited growth potential for those who are diligent and productive. Now more than ever, the construction industry is an exciting place to work. Over time, professionals can be working for a firm making over 6 figures. If they put in the time and effort, construction professionals can get to that place relatively quickly. Positions as Superintendent I and II require certain skills experience, and their salaries vary depending on the geographic location. Below is a closer look at some of the factors that contribute to salary variability for Superintendents and how firms can remain competitive.
First let’s go over some of the skills needed for these positions. Superintendents work on site and require a certain range of skills including:
- Collaboration and team work
- Efficiency and productivity
- Time Management
- Leadership
- Operational management
- Mathematics, budgeting, and estimating
Some responsibilities include:
- General management – Managing people and processes to ensure that the project is flawlessly completed on-time.
- Organizational and operational control – They control the overall operation of the construction site.
- Maintaining order – Safety has to be top of mind.
- Delegate responsibility – Performance management and task assignment is essential to the success of any project.
While salary is not the only determining factor in applying for or accepting construction jobs, it remains a major contributing factor. As construction professionals map out their career path—they often have a desired salary in mind. To achieve a desired salary, many candidates are willing to relocate. Relocation is more common now than ever. To remain competitive construction firms must consider how to make relocation more attractive. It’s also critical to be up-to-date on salaries across the country and the salary that candidates are looking for.
Superintendent I
| Region | 20th Percentile | 80th Percentile | Mean | Median |
| Midwest | $91.2 | $116.9 | $105.5 | $103.9 |
| Mid-Atlantic | $90.3 | $122.2 | $107.2 | $103.2 |
| Northeast | $101.2 | $141.9 | $122.8 | $122.3 |
| Northwest | $98.4 | $123.7 | $112.5 | $109.5 |
| Southeast | $86.0 | $110.9 | $100.2 | $99.0 |
| Southwest | $86.6 | $110.6 | $98.6 | $98.9 |
*salaries do not reflect bonuses
Superintendent I is typically responsible for projects in the range of $5 to $49 million. Most have between 5 to 10 years’ combined experience as a Junior Superintendent and/or Foreman. Responsible for managing Junior Assistants, Foreman, and a variety of laborers. Leads junior team, scheduling and organizing the project to ensure it is both time and cost-effective. Also drives quality control to ensure the project conforms with specifications, and more.
Superintendent II
| Region | 20th Percentile | 80th Percentile | Mean | Median |
| Midwest | $104.4 | $137.4 | $122.6 | $124.0 |
| Mid-Atlantic | $104.6 | $143.6 | $124.6 | $124.3 |
| Northeast | $111.3 | $167.5 | $140.5 | $137.6 |
| Northwest | $83.4 | $140.2 | $115.7 | $100.1 |
| Southeast | $108.0 | $143.2 | $128.7 | $125.1 |
| Southwest | $91.0 | $122.7 | $107.8 | $122.7 |
*salaries do not reflect bonuses
Superintendent II is typically responsible for projects in the range of $10 to $100 million. Most have between 10 to 15 years’ combined experience working their way up the ranks as a Junior Assistant. The job description is similar to Superintendent I, but with a larger budget and staffing levels that require superior time management skills, leadership effectiveness, and attention to detail.
The construction salary data generated above is compiled from multiple industry and salary sources, coupled with real-time data compiled by The Birmingham Group. As one of the leading recruiters in the nation, construction executive search firm, The Birmingham Group, interviews over 300 construction professionals each week.
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This is an exciting time in the world of construction. With this rapid turnaround over the past few years, many construction general contractors are being forced to reevaluate their construction salaries to stay competitive. We have compiled data from 4600+ individual construction management interviews performed by our staff.
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