ROLE OVERVIEW
Knife River is seeking an experienced Superintendent - Civil to lead grading and drainage operations on publicly bid DOT and airport projects. This is a field-driven leadership role with full responsibility for how the work gets built.
If youve led large earthwork and drainage spreads, understand production and cost control, and take pride in building work the right way-this role is for you.
What Youll Do
• Lead and execute grading and drainage operations, including excavation, embankment, subgrade, storm drainage, culverts, and erosion control. • Read and interpret plans, specifications, and quantities for DOT and airport work. • Manage crews, equipment, and subcontractors to meet production goals within budget. • Track daily production and costs, adjusting crews sequencing or methods as conditions change. • Ensure work is built to grade within tolerance and meets compaction requirements. • Maintain clear daily communication with project management. • Complete accurate field reporting, including timecards, production, and equipment hours.
HOW YOULL LEAD - KNIFE RIVER CORE VALUES
People Lead with respect and professionalism. Coach and develop operators, foremen, and crews. Build a strong team-oriented jobsite culture.
Safety Champion Knife Rivers I Choose Safety culture. Lead by example-no shortcuts. Conduct daily safety meetings and job hazard analyses. Stop work and correct unsafe conditions immediately. Quality Build grading and drainage work right the first time. Take ownership of the finished product. Prevent rework by addressing issues early. Environment Install and maintain erosion control and stormwater measures. Maintain compliance with environmental plans and permits. Protect surrounding land and resources.
WHAT WERE LOOKING FOR
10 years of heavy civil construction experience 5 years in a superintendent or lead supervisory role overseeing grading and drainage operations Proven experience on publicly bid DOT and/or airport projects Strong knowledge of earthwork and drainage equipment, methods, and sequencing Demonstrated ability to manage production schedule and field-level costs Willingness to lead from the field
WORK SCHEDULE & TRAVEL
Seasonal Full-Time Position 100 Travel Required - This role is based in the field at project locations and requires extended time away from home. Long hours, early starts, nights, weekends, and overtime as project schedules require.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
• Crews go home safe every day • Work is completed on grade on time and within budget • Challenges are owned and solved in the field Knife River values-People, Safety, Quality, and Environment-are visible on the jobsite every day
ESTIMATED SEASON COMPENSATION RANGE
Estimated compensation range for the construction season is $85,000 to $110,000
BENEFITS
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance • Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts • 401k with Company Match • Profit Sharing • Paid Time Off • Paid Sick Time • Paid Holidays • Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance • Short-term Disability • Employee Assistance Program • Years of Service Recognition • Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Dependents • Critical Illness Plan • Accident Coverage Plan • Hospital Indemnity
WHY KNIFE RIVER
At Knife River, we trust our superintendents to run the work. Youll have real responsibility, clear expectations, and the support needed to deliver high-quality results on complex public projects.
HOW TO APPLY
If unable to apply online, mail completed application to:
ATTN HR PO Box 40 Bemidji, MN 56619
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.