Heavy equipment Jobs in Knoxville, TN

About the Company

Our client is a privately owned, rapidly growing heavy civil contractor specializing in transportation and infrastructure construction throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. Their diverse portfolio includes heavy highway construction, bridge and culvert construction, grading and drainage, underground utility installation, concrete paving, erosion control, trails, greenways, ADA improvements, and other complex civil infrastructure projects for state, federal, municipal, and private clients.

Known for delivering exceptional quality while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, teamwork, and operational excellence, the company has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner across the region. As they continue to expand, they are seeking an experienced Heavy Highway & Bridge Construction Superintendent to join their leadership team.

About the Position

The Heavy Highway & Bridge Construction Superintendent is responsible for the day-to-day leadership of field operations on complex transportation and civil infrastructure projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee. This individual will ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

The Superintendent will provide leadership to field personnel, coordinate subcontractors and vendors, collaborate closely with project management, and foster a culture of accountability, safety, and teamwork.

This position requires travel to project sites located up to approximately four hours from Lexington, Kentucky. The majority of current projects are located throughout Tennessee, including the Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, and Clarksville markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily field operations for heavy highway, bridge, and civil infrastructure projects.
• Coordinate labor, equipment, subcontractors, and material deliveries to maintain project schedules.
• Partner with the General Superintendent and Project Managers to achieve production goals, budgets, and project timelines.
• Ensure all work complies with project specifications, contract requirements, and company quality standards.
• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture while maintaining compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Conduct daily jobsite planning meetings and communicate expectations with field crews.
• Maintain accurate daily reports documenting labor, equipment, production, weather conditions, safety observations, and project progress.
• Identify potential schedule impacts or field challenges and proactively implement solutions.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents.
• Coordinate inspections and communicate effectively with owners, engineers, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop field personnel while promoting a collaborative, high-performing work environment.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of field leadership experience as a Superintendent or Foreman on heavy highway and/or bridge construction projects.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Strong knowledge of heavy highway construction methods, sequencing, and industry best practices.
• Experience managing field crews, subcontractors, equipment, and multiple project activities simultaneously.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Working knowledge of OSHA regulations and construction safety standards.
• Willingness and ability to travel to projects throughout Kentucky and Tennessee.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• OSHA 30 Certification or equivalent safety training.
• Experience working on DOT, municipal, and federal transportation projects.
• Background overseeing bridge construction, roadway improvements, grading, drainage, and underground wet utility installations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of $100,000-$125,000, based on experience
• Comprehensive health benefits
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Retirement savings plan with company contribution (where applicable)
• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance (based on role)
• Opportunities for career advancement with a growing organization
• Ongoing professional development and safety training
• Collaborative, team-oriented work environment focused on excellence and employee success