Overview
The Underground Piping Superintendent is responsible for overseeing the installation, inspection, and testing of underground piping systems, including HDPE, carbon Steel, and other materials. This role ensures that all work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with project specifications, codes, and standards.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate underground piping installation activities including excavation, bedding, pipe laying, backfilling, and testing.
- Ensure compliance with project drawings, specifications, and applicable codes (ASME,ASTM,API).
- Lead field crews, subcontractors, and vendors to meet project milestones and quality standards.
- Monitor and enforce safety protocols, implementing company safety policies and promoting a zero-incident culture.
- Review and interpret blueprints, isometric drawings, and P&IDs.
- Plan and schedule daily and weekly work activities in coordination with other trades and disciplines.
- Conduct inspections and quality control checks, including hydrostatic and pneumatic testing.
- Maintain accurate records of work progress, manpower, equipment, and materials.
- Interface with project managers, engineers, and clients to resolve field issues and ensure smooth workflow.
- Preserve project profitability through efficient resources management and cost control.
- Study specifications to plan construction procedures, staffing requirements, and timelines.
- Assemble and lead project teams including supervisory, clerical, engineering and field personnel.
- Oversee procurement and timely delivery of tools and materials to meet work schedules.
- Collaborate with engineering personnel, inspectors, and suppliers to resolve construction challenges and improve methods.
- Inspect ongoing work to ensure adherence to specifications and schedules.
- Prepare and review progress reports, material usage, and cost data; adjust schedules as needed.
- Direct major maintenance or reconditioning projects for existing installations.
- Develop and maintain effective relationships with subcontractors and owners.
- Assist project management with monthly cost projections and budget tracking.
- Conduct superintendent meetings and coordinate field coverage across multiple sites.
- Train and develop other superintendents and field staff.
- Coordinate warranty work, punch list, and site logistics.
- Facilitate communication between divisions, and with area safety supervisors regarding incidents.
- Ensure subcontractors meet company expectations and operate at peak performance.
- Assist other craft workers as needed.
- Prepare and submit daily reports, look-ahead schedules, and progress updates.
Qualifications
- Minimum 10 years of experience in underground piping or utility construction, with at 3 years in a supervisory role.
- Strong knowledge of underground piping systems, installation techniques, and testing procedures.
- Basic knowledge of trenching and excavation.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting construction drawings and specifications.
- Familiarity with construction scheduling tools (e.g. Primavera P6, MS Project)
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- OSHA 30 Certification preferred.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor construction environment.
- Willingness to travel or relocate as needed.
Physical
- Must be able to push/pull, lift, or carry up to 50 lbs., but may occasionally push/pull, lift, or carry up to 100 lbs.
- Subject to repetitive use of hands/arms, and legs
- Hand/eye coordination
- Must be able to communicate (hear, comprehend, and speak) to safely perform work
- Will need to be able to perform sedentary to heavy work
- May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types
- Climb and maintain balance on steel/wood framework, stairs, ladders and scaffolds
- Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis
- Position may require prolonged bending/twisting, walking, crawling, kneeling, reaching overhead, squatting, pushing /pulling, or standing and lifting
- Must be able to walk on uneven surfaces, muddy conditions, loose rock, loose/soft sand, etc.
- May be required to work in confined spaces
- Will be exposed to adverse weather conditions (Heat, Cold, Rain, Etc.)
Mental
- Must have the ability to communicate effectively with management/ supervision and field workers
- Reading and writing comprehension is necessary for giving and receiving directions to perform work and/or safety policy
- Ability to use math/complete calculations
- Work at various tempos, and concentrate amid distractions
- Decision making skills necessary
- Detail-oriented; must be able to remember, examine, and observe details
- Requires strong leadership and motivational skills