Most superintendents follow a field progression: start as a field engineer or assistant superintendent ($75K, $95K), then move into a superintendent role ($95K, $145K depending on market and project complexity). The leap requires hands-on ownership of schedule management, subcontractor coordination, safety compliance, and quality control, ideally across larger, more complex projects.

Hiring managers we work with look for candidates who've demonstrated real field leadership: managing multiple crews, recovering schedules under pressure, reading and executing plans/specs, and solving problems in real time. Experience in commercial, civil, industrial, or energy sectors accelerates your path; mission-critical work typically commands higher compensation.

The trajectory doesn't stop there, senior and general superintendents earn $125K, $185K+ by adding portfolio depth, relationship capital, and ability to lead multiple sites or operations. If you're early-stage, focus on getting under a strong PM, learning the full scope of site operations, and building a track record of delivering on time and safely.