A superintendent is an executive who manages a school district, construction company, or apartment building, among other settings and organizations. Depending on the location and job setting, a superintendent may be responsible for a number of different tasks. Most professionals make decisions regarding policies, procedures, finances, human resources, and other important matters. They identify and solve problems, set budgets, and adhere to applicable laws.
A school superintendent oversees the organization and analyzes the achievements of an entire school district. He or she usually works with a board of directors to set district policies and investigate their effectiveness. When a professional identifies a lack of funding or a need for qualified teachers, he or she might contact state or country officials, advertise job openings, or organize fundraising activities. School superintendents are usually very involved in setting academic goals and creating curricula for every grade level.
Individuals who supervise and direct work on a construction site are often given the title of superintendent. Construction superintendents direct laborers, make sure blueprints, building codes, and safety laws are followed, and inspect finished jobs. They are frequently placed in charge of obtaining materials, creating schedules, setting and paying wages, and keeping careful records of expenditures.
The superintendent of an apartment building or residential community is generally responsible for ensuring that the property is kept clean and safe. Residents usually contact the superintendent when minor repairs are needed in their units. He or she must be skilled at troubleshooting and repairing various appliances, fixtures, and structural elements of a building to meet the needs of residents. A professional may also be placed in charge of maintaining the security and appearance of buildings, landscaping, and cleaning units after tenants move out.
There are many types of superintendents who assume managerial duties in other settings. Many public parks, golf courses, and communities hire superintendents to ensure the upkeep of property and facilities. Many countries, including Great Britain, designate police superintendents to manage local departments and communicate with higher officials. Other professionals may work in government agencies, military offices, political organizations, or large corporations.
An individual who wants to become a superintendent in most industries or organizations must obtain a college degree from an accredited university. Most school superintendents hold master's degrees or higher in education or school administration. Professionals at construction companies are often required to have engineering, project management, or business credentials, while building superintendents usually need property management degrees or vocational training. Regardless of the work setting, professionals must be strong communicators, rational thinkers, and problem solvers.