The job of a nuclear construction supervisor combines the duties of a construction supervisor with the requirements of working on a nuclear construction project. This position can serve in many different areas of construction or engineering, including carpentry, electrical, and plumbing. Knowledge of engineering and the nuclear field is mandatory, even for an experienced construction supervisor.
As the job title implies, nuclear construction supervisor duties include supervision. Who and what are supervised depends on the job site and project requirements. Someone in this position might be in charge of an electrical crew working on one small part of a larger nuclear construction job. More demanding, high-level jobs place the supervisor in charge of multiple or large crews and project subcontractors.
The supervisor plans work in progress, oversees daily activities of the workers, and reports to his manager or managers, as required. Previous experience and knowledge dictate how many people a supervisor will oversee. Entry-level supervisory jobs typically work with a smaller staff on basic nuclear construction or engineering projects.
Hiring companies seek experienced supervisors for more complex projects with a large staff and many subcontractors. On-the-job knowledge is vital when dealing with a big crew because more workers demand more responsibility to keep the project on budget and moving forward without problems. Nuclear job supervisors can run into a variety of situations that require practice and understanding to handle correctly.
Education and skill level can determine the specific types of projects given to a nuclear construction supervisor. Every position is unique, but supervisors at this level frequently contribute a high level of nuclear and engineering expertise on the job. Supervisors working in nuclear construction sometimes complete tasks requiring technical expertise concerning nuclear facility operations. They may also be called upon to identify areas needing improvement and contribute to future project planning.
A nuclear construction supervisor needs general maintenance abilities and experience in applying this skill in the nuclear industry. It is common for construction supervisors to be called upon to perform hands-on work. Doing a variety of tasks requires prior job experience and in-depth knowledge in construction, engineering, and nuclear facility maintenance.
Supervisors on a nuclear construction project must know and maintain all regulations and standards of the nuclear industry. This person must also follow building codes and work-safety guidelines to prevent accidents and costly mistakes. Performing regular quality inspections helps the construction supervisor keep things running smoothly and according to all required standards.
Other duties related to overseeing the staff and subcontractors include keeping the job on track while working within a specific budget for time and money. On-the-spot problem-solving skills help defer work stoppages, and effective communication helps with conflict resolution. Nuclear construction supervisors work independently on their projects but regularly contact management personnel with updates and to consult on job progress and production.