How Much Does A Site Supervisor Earn?

How Much Does a Site Supervisor Earn?

How much does a site supervisor actually earn? In this blog, we’ll break it down honestly, from hourly rates to long-term career growth and the hidden benefits you might overlook.

Typical Range

In the United States, site supervisors typically earn between $22 and $35 per hour.
In the United Kingdom, entry-level supervisors make £18 to £25 per hour, and with five to ten years of experience, that can double.

As you advance, overseeing multiple crews, larger areas, or moving toward a superintendent role, salaries can climb to $85,000–$100,000+ per year.

It’s always best to research local pay scales for the most accurate figures in your area.

Can You Make Six Figures Without a Degree?

Yes, it’s possible. If “site supervisor” in your region means you’re acting as a general foreman or assistant superintendent, you can absolutely reach six figures especially when you take on more work, responsibility, and risk.

A college degree isn’t a strict requirement. As Jason shared from his own experience, being a continual learner matters far more.

Pay Structure: Hourly or Salary?

This depends heavily on where you work.

• On the West Coast (and often in unionized environments), foremen and general foremen are usually hourly employees with overtime pay.
• Once you transition to assistant superintendent, you typically move to a salary meaning no overtime, but often access to bonus structures.

In some regions (like the Midwest near Chicago), even superintendents may still receive overtime pay through union agreements.

If you’re moving to salary, be sure to negotiate fairly for your base pay and bonus potential, since overtime won’t be included.

Which Jobs Pay the Most?

Between the main construction sectors, commercial construction pays the most, followed by infrastructure and then residential.

However, specialized industries can pay significantly higher:

• Oil and gas.
• Mining.
• High-risk remote projects (like offshore rigs).

These environments often come with higher compensation due to the increased risk and difficulty.

Union vs. Non-Union Pay

Let’s keep this neutral and fact-based.

Historically, unions have played an important role in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring proper training and benefits. Many union tradespeople are exceptionally skilled and well-compensated.

However, in some non-union (or “Right-to-Work”) regions, the pay and skill levels can vary more widely.

“When I worked in Southern California, every carpenter was highly skilled. When I moved to Texas, the overall skill level was noticeably lower.”

If you’re just starting out, unions can provide valuable training and stability. But if you find a great company that treats employees well and pays competitively, you may not need union representation.

Ultimately, it’s about finding a system that works best for you and your growth.

Hidden Perks to Look For

When negotiating your offer, don’t just look at the base pay. Consider these additional benefits that can make a huge difference:

Basic perks:

• Company truck or vehicle allowance.
• Gas card.
• Laptop, iPad, or communication gear.

Major perks:

• Per diem (if working away from home).
• Regional cost-of-living adjustments (especially in high-cost areas like California or the Northeast).
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement or 401(k) plans.
• Bonus opportunities.

A strong compensation package considers all these elements together, not just the salary figure.

Final Thoughts

This blog wraps up some of the most common questions about site supervisor pay, roles, and career paths.

Remember, salaries vary by location, market, and company. What matters most is understanding your value, staying curious, and continuing to learn.

Key Takeaway

A site supervisor’s earnings depend on experience, location, and scope of responsibility but with continuous learning, negotiation skills, and awareness of benefits beyond salary, you can build a six-figure career in construction even without a degree.