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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Job Supervisor

💰 $65,000 - $95,000

ConstructionManufacturingOperations ManagementSupervisory

🎯 Role Definition

As a Job Supervisor, you will be the on-the-ground leader responsible for the day-to-day management of job sites and operational teams. You will serve as the crucial link between project management and the skilled workforce, translating project plans into tangible results. This position demands a hands-on approach to leadership, ensuring that all work is completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. You will be empowered to make critical decisions, solve complex problems in real-time, and mentor your team to achieve peak performance. This is an ideal role for a seasoned professional looking to take ownership of project outcomes and foster a culture of excellence and safety.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Lead Technician
  • Foreman
  • Senior Craftsperson
  • Project Coordinator

Advancement To:

  • Project Manager
  • Site Superintendent
  • Operations Manager
  • Construction Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Control Manager
  • Safety Manager
  • Estimator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Directly oversee, manage, and coordinate the daily activities of on-site crews, trade partners, and subcontractors to ensure project milestones are achieved.
  • Develop, maintain, and execute detailed short-term project schedules (e.g., three-week look-aheads) in alignment with the master project timeline.
  • Champion and enforce a rigorous safety culture on-site, conducting regular safety meetings, site inspections, and ensuring strict compliance with all OSHA and company-specific safety policies.
  • Act as the primary on-site authority for quality control, meticulously inspecting workmanship and materials to ensure they meet project specifications, design drawings, and industry standards.
  • Interpret blueprints, schematics, and construction documents to guide crews and resolve any ambiguities or discrepancies in the field.
  • Proactively identify, document, and resolve on-site issues, conflicts, and construction challenges to prevent delays and cost overruns.
  • Manage the logistics of on-site resources, including the timely ordering, receiving, and staging of materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Maintain comprehensive and accurate daily project documentation, including daily logs, progress reports, crew timesheets, safety incident reports, and photo documentation.
  • Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between the project management team, clients, architects, engineers, and on-site personnel.
  • Monitor project budgets and control on-site costs by managing labor hours, minimizing waste, and ensuring efficient use of equipment and materials.
  • Lead and mentor team members, providing clear direction, constructive feedback, and on-the-job training to enhance skills and promote professional growth.
  • Coordinate and schedule required inspections with local authorities, building inspectors, and other regulatory agencies to ensure code compliance.
  • Conduct pre-installation meetings with crews and subcontractors to review scope, specifications, and quality expectations for critical tasks.
  • Manage the project closeout process, including the development and completion of punch lists and ensuring all final inspections are passed.
  • Assess and manage on-site risks, implementing mitigation strategies to protect personnel, property, and the project timeline.
  • Prepare and submit regular progress updates and performance reports to the Project Manager, highlighting achievements, challenges, and upcoming activities.
  • Ensure the job site is kept clean, organized, and secure at all times to promote safety and efficiency.
  • Resolve any employee or subcontractor conflicts that arise on-site in a professional and timely manner.
  • Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, schedule, budget, and quality for all supervised work.
  • Participate in project planning and pre-construction meetings to provide valuable field-level insights on constructability, logistics, and scheduling.
  • Coordinate equipment needs, including rentals, maintenance, and operator assignments, to ensure optimal utilization and availability.
  • Uphold company policies and procedures on-site, serving as a role model for professionalism and work ethic.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist the Project Manager with cost tracking, change order documentation, and budget forecasting.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of company-wide operational processes, safety protocols, and quality standards.
  • Mentor junior supervisors or foremen, providing guidance and support for their professional development.
  • Participate in the evaluation and selection of subcontractors and vendors based on past performance and capabilities.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, construction drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and relevant local, state, and federal building codes.
  • Expertise in job site safety standards and OSHA regulations (OSHA 10/30 certification highly preferred).
  • Experience with construction management software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam, PlanGrid).
  • Competency with project scheduling software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).
  • Ability to perform material take-offs and assist with cost estimation.
  • Knowledge of quality control and assurance processes and documentation.
  • Skills in resource planning and workforce allocation.
  • First Aid/CPR certification is a strong plus.
  • Basic computer skills for reporting and communication (MS Office Suite, email).
  • Understanding of equipment management and maintenance logistics.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional leadership and team-building abilities.
  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Advanced problem-solving and critical-thinking capabilities.
  • Strong decision-making skills, especially under pressure.
  • Excellent conflict resolution and interpersonal skills.
  • Superior time management and organizational skills.
  • High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Adaptability and flexibility to manage changing priorities and unforeseen challenges.
  • Motivational skills to foster a positive and productive work environment.
  • Client-focused mindset with a commitment to professional service.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Construction Management
  • Business Administration
  • Engineering
  • Skilled Trades

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

5-8 years of progressive experience in the relevant industry (e.g., construction, manufacturing), with a minimum of 2-3 years in a direct supervisory or leadership role (e.g., Foreman, Lead).

Preferred:

Possession of relevant certifications such as OSHA 30-Hour, First Aid/CPR, or specific trade licenses.

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