Senior Superintendent-Life Sciences & Pharmaceutical Construction

Columbia•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

Columbia Construction is seeking an experienced Senior Superintendent to lead field operations for highly visible science and technology construction projects. The role is responsible for driving safety, quality, schedule, and subcontractor performance in complex, highly technical environments, including pharmaceutical, biotech, healthcare, advanced technology, research, manufacturing, and mission-critical facilities. Projects may involve active campuses, sophisticated MEP systems, critical infrastructure, research environments, specialty equipment installations, and stringent client requirements. The Senior Superintendent leads work from groundbreaking through closeout and serves as the primary liaison between Columbia, the client, and field operations. The position also supports commissioning, turnover, and occupancy planning, and mentors emerging field leaders. Columbia Construction describes its culture through The Columbia Way: accountability, collaboration, integrity, and doing the right thing. The salary range is $165,000–$210,000.

Requirements

15+ years of relevant field experience in commercial construction, including at least 10 years in a Superintendent role.
Demonstrated success leading complex life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotech, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, mission-critical, or technology projects.
Strong understanding of complex building systems, including HVAC, electrical, controls, laboratories, clean rooms, specialty spaces, and critical infrastructure.
Demonstrated understanding and implementation of Lean construction practices and collaborative planning methodologies.
Strong proficiency with construction technology platforms, including scheduling software, VDC/BIM coordination tools, Lean construction software, safety management systems, Procore, and other field productivity technologies.
Deep knowledge of construction means, methods, building codes, and safety standards.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to lead large teams, coordinate multiple trades, and manage demanding project schedules.
Ability to lead, mentor, and develop field personnel while maintaining high expectations for safety, quality, and performance.
Proficiency in scheduling software such as Primavera P6 and MS Project, and construction management platforms; Procore is preferred.
OSHA 30 certification required.
CSL required.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing projects valued at $30M or more.
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or a related field (preferred, not required).
ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors) credentialing, participation in STEP programs, a Boston ABC License, or other recognized construction leadership and safety certifications.
Additional industry certifications related to safety, Lean construction, scheduling, or project delivery.
Ability to anticipate problems, lead with integrity, and bring teams together in technically complex environments.
Understanding of the quality and operational requirements associated with pharmaceutical and life sciences construction.

Responsibilities

Lead all on-site construction activities from groundbreaking through closeout.
Champion jobsite safety and ensure compliance with Columbia’s Safety Program, client requirements, and OSHA regulations.
Partner with Safety Managers to identify risks, implement corrective actions, and promote safety excellence throughout the project lifecycle.
Develop and maintain site logistics plans, project schedules, and look-ahead plans.
Coordinate and manage subcontractors, vendors, and field personnel.
Mentor and develop Assistant Superintendents, Field Engineers, and emerging field leaders.
Support commissioning, turnover, and occupancy planning activities.
Work with the Project Manager to align field execution with budget, schedule, and design intent.
Conduct daily coordination meetings and weekly subcontractor meetings.
Monitor work progress, perform quality control, and resolve field issues in real time.
Maintain project documentation, including daily reports, photos, inspections, and field logs.
Serve as the primary liaison between Columbia, the client, and field operations.
Lead construction activities in active research, pharmaceutical, laboratory, healthcare, manufacturing, and mission-critical environments.
Coordinate construction scopes involving HVAC systems, electrical infrastructure, controls systems, clean utilities, specialty piping, automation systems, and technical equipment installations.
Collaborate with client stakeholders, facility personnel, engineers, commissioning teams, and trade partners.
Ensure adherence to project-specific quality standards, regulatory requirements, and client expectations.
Foster a respectful, solution-focused jobsite environment aligned with The Columbia Way.