Job Specification – Superintendent
Job Purpose
The Superintendent, working under the general direction of the Works Manager or Project Manager, is responsible for managing and supervising the safe, efficient and effective execution of projects or designated sections of projects, in accordance with contractual requirements, project specifications and company procedures.
The role involves overseeing onshore and offshore operations, ensuring that personnel, equipment and resources are effectively coordinated to achieve project objectives in terms of safety, quality, programme and budget.
Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the Superintendent may also deputise for the Works Manager or Project Manager during periods of absence. On smaller projects, the Superintendent may act as the principal company representative responsible for the execution of the works.
Key Responsibilities
The specific duties and level of responsibility will depend on the size, nature and complexity of the project.
- Health, Safety, Environment and Quality
Implement and maintain the project Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) plans for the relevant area of responsibility.
Contribute to the development and review of Quality Assurance (QA) plans, risk assessments and method statements.
Prepare and deliver Toolbox Talks, Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and other relevant safety briefings.
Ensure all activities are carried out in accordance with approved procedures, safety requirements and environmental legislation.
Promote a positive safety culture and ensure that all personnel understand and comply with their HSE responsibilities.
Carry out quality inspections and checks to ensure works meet the required specifications and standards.
- Project Preparation and Mobilisation
Coordinate site preparations and operational requirements ahead of project commencement.
Prepare short-term programmes covering mobilisation, installation, execution and demobilisation activities.
Identify resource requirements, including personnel, plant, equipment, materials and subcontractors.
Ensure all necessary resources are available at the right place and time to support the planned works.
- Work Planning and Execution
Prepare, review and implement work methods, ensuring activities are undertaken in accordance with approved method statements and project requirements.
Contribute to the development of project execution plans.
Coordinate personnel, equipment, materials and subcontractors in consultation with relevant internal departments and external stakeholders.
Ensure work is carried out safely, efficiently and in accordance with contractual obligations.
Monitor operational activities and identify opportunities to improve productivity and efficiency.
- Programme and Cost Control
Develop and maintain detailed short-term work programmes aligned with the overall project schedule.
Monitor progress against planned activities and production targets.
Identify potential delays, constraints or operational issues and implement corrective actions where required.
Ensure operations are undertaken efficiently, taking account of quality, costs and budgetary requirements.
Report progress, performance and any deviations from the agreed programme to the Works Manager or Project Manager.
- Contractual and Technical Compliance
Maintain a clear understanding of the project scope, contractual requirements, drawings and technical specifications.
Supervise the technical execution of the works, ensuring dimensions, levels and tolerances are achieved.
Identify, record and report any deviations from the contract, including changes in ground or seabed conditions, unexpected obstructions or variations to the original programme.
Escalate technical or contractual issues to the appropriate project management personnel.
Monitor operational risks associated with ground conditions, tides, currents, weather and other environmental factors.
- Team Leadership and Coordination
Lead, supervise and motivate operational teams working both onshore and offshore.
Allocate tasks and responsibilities to employees, subcontractors and third-party personnel.
Coordinate the activities of subcontractors, hired vessel crews and plant operators.
Provide clear instructions, guidance and feedback to ensure activities are completed safely and effectively.
Promote teamwork, accountability and professional standards across all operational activities.
Address performance or operational issues promptly and escalate where necessary.
- Plant, Equipment and Maintenance
Monitor the condition and operational performance of plant, machinery, systems and equipment.
Report equipment defects or breakdowns to the relevant Technical Department or maintenance personnel.
Follow up on repairs and maintenance activities to minimise operational disruption.
Ensure equipment is suitable for the intended activities and is operated in accordance with relevant procedures.
- Reporting and Documentation
Maintain accurate daily site and operational reports, including:
Work activities and progress achieved.
Production quantities, including dredged volumes and achieved depths where applicable.
Materials used and delivered.
Weather, tidal and environmental conditions.
Personnel and equipment deployed.
Subcontractor and third-party activities.
Delays, incidents, defects and operational constraints.
Prepare weekly progress reports and other operational reports as required.
Ensure relevant project documentation and records are maintained accurately and submitted within agreed timescales.
- Quality Control and Production Monitoring
Inspect and monitor the execution of works to ensure compliance with project specifications and quality standards.
Monitor production rates and identify opportunities to optimise operational performance.
Follow up on quality issues, defects and non-conformances, ensuring appropriate corrective actions are implemented.
Work closely with project management and technical teams to ensure successful delivery of project objectives.
- Client and Stakeholder Relationships
Maintain positive and professional working relationships with clients, client representatives, subcontractors and other project stakeholders.
Attend operational meetings and coordinate directly with client representatives and site supervisors.
Communicate progress, operational requirements and potential issues effectively.
Represent the company professionally at all times.
- Deputising and Project Management Support
Maintain an understanding of the wider project responsibilities undertaken by the Works Manager or Project Manager.
Deputise for the Works Manager or Project Manager when required.
On smaller projects, take responsibility as the principal company representative for the safe and effective execution of the works.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Minimum of secondary vocational education or equivalent practical experience.
Demonstrable experience in a Superintendent, Site Supervisor or similar operational management role within marine construction, dredging, civil engineering or a related industry.
Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
Good written and spoken English communication skills.
Knowledge and understanding of quality management systems and health, safety and environmental procedures.
Basic understanding of surveying, setting out and dimensional control.
Practical experience and understanding of the operation of marine plant, dredging equipment and associated machinery.
Experience working on projects involving one or more of the following:
Capital and maintenance dredging.
Stone dumping and rock placement.
Bank, bed and scour protection.
Jetties, groynes and marine structures.
Hopper dredging and cutter suction dredging.
Backhoe, grab and clamshell dredging.
Environmental dredging.
Small-scale and specialist dredging operations.
Pipelines, ducts, landfalls and outfalls.
Understanding of tides, currents, sea conditions and weather impacts on marine operations.
Ability to interpret and understand bathymetric survey information, project drawings and technical specifications.
Strong organisational, planning and communication skills.
Ability to lead operational teams and coordinate multiple work activities.
Willingness and flexibility to work both onshore and offshore, including travel and working away from home as required by project demands.
Core Competencies
Teamwork and Collaboration
Works effectively with colleagues, subcontractors and clients to achieve common objectives.
Contributes ideas and supports others in resolving operational challenges.
Demonstrates a flexible and cooperative approach to teamwork.
Initiative and Continuous Improvement
Identifies opportunities to improve working methods, productivity and operational efficiency.
Proactively suggests solutions and improvements.
Takes ownership of tasks and demonstrates a positive, proactive attitude.
Professionalism and Integrity
Maintains high professional standards and takes pride in the quality of work delivered.
Accepts constructive feedback and actively seeks to improve performance.
Acts honestly, consistently and responsibly.
Delivers on commitments and maintains professional relationships.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Treats all colleagues, clients and stakeholders fairly, respectfully and equally.
Supports an inclusive working environment free from discrimination, harassment and unfair treatment.
Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness
Demonstrates a strong commitment to health, safety and environmental protection.
Complies with company HSE policies, procedures and safe systems of work.
Actively promotes a positive safety culture and takes responsibility for personal and team safety.
Job-Specific Competencies
Problem Solving
Analyses operational problems from different perspectives.
Identifies practical solutions and implements appropriate corrective actions.
Uses experience and knowledge from colleagues and other specialists to resolve issues and prevent recurrence.
Accountability
Takes responsibility for completing assigned activities within agreed timescales.
Recognises personal responsibilities and understands when support or guidance is required.
Ensures commitments and responsibilities are followed through.
Adaptability
Responds effectively to changing operational conditions and project requirements.
Adjusts priorities and working methods when circumstances change.
Demonstrates flexibility when dealing with unexpected challenges.
Planning and Organisation
Coordinates personnel, equipment, subcontractors and other resources effectively.
Understands the dependencies between activities and manages them accordingly.
Anticipates potential delays and operational challenges.
Ensures resources are available when required to maintain project progress.
Communication
Communicates clearly and effectively with colleagues, clients and subcontractors.
Listens carefully and asks appropriate questions to establish understanding.
Provides clear instructions and operational updates.
Produces accurate and well-structured reports and documentation.
Leadership and Direction
Provides clear direction and allocates responsibilities appropriately.
Sets objectives, expectations and deadlines for operational teams.
Monitors performance and provides constructive feedback.
Motivates and supports teams to achieve project objectives.
Delivering Results
Maintains focus on project targets, programme and production requirements.
Takes appropriate action when performance or delivery is at risk.
Demonstrates determination and commitment to achieving successful project outcomes.
Taking Initiative
Takes ownership and demonstrates a proactive approach to operational responsibilities.
Anticipates potential issues and acts before they affect project delivery.
Identifies opportunities and puts forward practical recommendations
