How Are Superintendents Chosen?

How to Choose the Right Superintendent for Your Project: Key Considerations

In this blog, I’m going to walk you through the process of choosing the right superintendent for your construction project. I’ll cover exactly what to look for, the steps you should take, and how to ensure you’re not left with a leaderless job site. This is a crucial decision, and if you’re into creating smooth, successful construction operations, you’ve come to the right place.

The Common Issue with Superintendents in Construction

This is a topic that not only gets searched frequently online but is also a common challenge in the industry. Many companies hire superintendents based solely on experience. What often happens is that the superintendent will show up on the job site and begin acting as the lead foreman, digging into the details, solving day-to-day problems, and in doing so, neglecting their true role. Meanwhile, the project goes leaderless, systems fall apart, and the overall job site environment suffers.

Understanding the Role of a Superintendent

A foreman is the lead worker on a crew, but a superintendent is not supposed to be a “lead foreman.” The superintendent’s job is to synchronize the entire job site, ensuring all systems are in place for success. They are process-driven and systems-oriented professionals. Their focus should be on the big picture: setting the rhythm of work, organizing collaborative meetings, and creating the right environment for trade partners to do their best work.

When superintendents get bogged down in foreman-type tasks like managing materials and solving every small issue, they’re not focusing on critical areas like how the team operates, how to maintain the job site’s flow, and how to set up systems that ensure project success.

The Key Qualities to Look For

So, what should you look for when hiring a superintendent? It’s not just about experience. Yes, experience is important, but it’s not everything. The best superintendents know the processes, systems, and how to build teams. Here’s what really matters:

• Cultural Fit: Are they aligned with your company’s values?
• Growth Mindset: Are they willing to learn, adapt, and implement new systems?
• Process-Driven Thinking: Can they run processes and systems effectively?

By focusing on these qualities, you’ll find superintendents who can truly lead, not just individuals with years of experience repeating the same tasks without growth.

How to Hire a Superintendent

1. Project Needs: First, outline what type of project you’re hiring for. The superintendent’s experience should align with the project type (civil, industrial, etc.), but prioritize their ability to manage systems over their experience in a specific niche.
2. Job Requirements: Make it clear what the superintendent will be in charge of. Use a scorecard to list out responsibilities and ensure the candidate understands exactly what they are signing up for.
3. Recruitment and Sourcing: Advertise the role internally and externally, and look for candidates who not only have relevant experience but also demonstrate a growth mindset and a focus on systems.
4. Evaluation: Evaluate candidates against your scorecard and conduct scenario-based assessments. See how they handle real-world job site challenges.
5. Interviews: Conduct a 360-degree interview process with multiple rounds and input from different team members. Get a broad perspective on each candidate.
6. Cultural Fit: Ensure the candidate aligns with your company’s core values and long-term vision. This is critical for long-term success.
7. Support: After hiring, provide ongoing support. It takes time to adjust to a new company culture, so stay involved in the first three months to ensure they’re the right fit.

Final Takeaway

The role of a superintendent isn’t just about solving problems on-site or overseeing the work directly. It’s about running a system, managing processes, and creating an environment where the project can thrive. By focusing on cultural fit, growth mindset, and process-driven thinking, you’ll be able to hire superintendents who not only lead but excel in their roles.