Construction Superintendent vs. Project Manager: What's the Difference?
Understanding the difference between a Superintendent and a Project Manager in the construction industry
If you are looking for a career in the construction industry you've probably come across the roles of Project Manager and Superintendent. At first glance, they may seem similar, and they do share the end goal of a finished project. However, there are significant differences in their daily responsibilities that contribute to the success and safety of a construction project.
Project Manager responsibilities include:
- Working on-site or off-site
- Planning and coordination of the construction project
- Developing the project schedule, budget, and scope of work
- Communication of project goals to stakeholders and partners
- Identifying and managing safety risks
- Negotiating contracts and schedules
- Managing relationships with clients and subcontractors
Superintendent responsibilities include:
- Working on-site
- Managing day-to-day operations of the construction site
- Supervising the work of subcontractors and laborers
- Ensuring work is completed safely and on schedule
- Coordinating the delivery of materials and equipment
- Tracking details using productivity software
- Enforcing OSHA standards and safety protocols
Day-to-day expectations on a construction site
A Project Manager principally works off-site, occasionally visits the job site, and manages the construction project as a whole. They work with a project admin who handles the timelines and with project accountants who deal with the budget all while maintaining communication about any updates to stakeholders.
A Superintendent works on-site or “in the field” managing the day-to-day operations, directing and guiding craft workers, and ensuring the job site is safe for everyone.
Education and qualifications
A Project Manager typically requires a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Construction Management, with experience and career progression in the field.
According to data compiled by Zippia, estimates indicate that 80% of construction managers have a degree – with 61% of them earning a bachelor's degree, 18% earning an associate degree, and 9% having earned a master's degree. Given the intense financial management, contract negotiations, and other skills needed, an advanced degree can increase consideration for open roles at larger construction companies while increasing the potential for career advancement once established in a position.
For a Superintendent role, construction supervisor experience is necessary and having a high school diploma or GED is often a minimum requirement to be considered. While a strong construction background can be enough to qualify for an open role as a superintendent, Zippia data also indicates that 47% of today’s active construction superintendents have a bachelor's degree in construction, Civil, Architectural Engineering, or Construction Management.
Separate roles working as a team
In smaller construction companies, it is common for one individual to hold both the Superintendent and Project Manager roles, while in larger organizations they are two separate roles.
Typically, the size and complexity of the project along with the structure of the organization determine the responsibilities of a Superintendent and Project Manager.
Mortenson's focus on collaboration
Collaboration between Team Members is paramount at Mortenson, and this is especially true for the Supt/PM relationship.
Free-flowing communication between these two critical project roles – along with many other team members onsite – helps to quickly identify hurdles, minimize disruption, and maximize our efficiency in addressing challenges.
“When I first got here, I couldn't believe the openness of people I reached out to for advice and guidance,” said Chad Smith, Mortenson Senior Project Manager. “Whether it was about equipment, facilities, our file systems, or something else to understand how Mortenson does it…everyone is always very open and helpful to share their knowledge and experience so we’re all on the same page.”
Communication is key
The Superintendent and Project Manager play critical roles in the success of a construction project, working closely together each day to keep things on track. Both roles can be high-pressure at times, and handling that pressure with grace isn’t always easy—but the teamwork and shared communication skills between them help ensure that large-scale builds are delivered on time, on budget, and most importantly, safely.