1

Utilities Superintendent Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Site Superintendent with experience in heavy civil construction, specifically underground utilities and earthwork operations. This role requires someone who understands the ...

Be Seen First

For Shaw Construction, the Superintendent serves as the primary field leader on municipal utility, pump station, and heavy civil infrastructure projects and is responsible for maintaining ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Utilities Superintendent information

See Virginia salary details

$35.2K

$101.4K

$163.6K

How much do utilities superintendent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for utilities superintendent in Virginia is $101,408.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,300.00 and $127,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a utilities superintendent, and how can they be effectively managed?

Utilities Superintendents often encounter challenges such as coordinating large teams across multiple projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding swiftly to emergency situations like outages or infrastructure failures. Effective management involves strong organizational skills, frequent communication with staff and stakeholders, and staying updated on industry regulations and best practices. Utilizing technology for monitoring and maintenance scheduling, along with fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement, can also help address these challenges.

What is the difference between Utilities Superintendent vs Water Plant Operator?

AspectUtilities SuperintendentWater Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or environmental science, plus certifications like CWEA or state-specific licensesRequires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as CWEA Water Treatment Operator are common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple utility operations, including water, sewer, and power systems, often in an office setting with field visitsWorks primarily in water treatment plants, operating and monitoring equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal and utility companies managing large-scale infrastructureCommonly employed by water treatment facilities and municipal water departments

The Utilities Superintendent oversees multiple utility operations and manages staff, while the Water Plant Operator focuses on operating and maintaining water treatment equipment. Both roles require certifications, but the superintendent's role is broader and more managerial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utilities superintendent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utilities Superintendent, you need expertise in utility operations, infrastructure management, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field and relevant supervisory experience. Familiarity with SCADA systems, GIS software, and certifications such as water or wastewater operator licenses are commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive team performance and stakeholder collaboration. These skills are vital to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant utility services for the community.

What does a utilities superintendent do?

A Utilities Superintendent oversees the operation, maintenance, and repair of public utilities such as water, wastewater, gas, or electrical systems within a city or municipality. They manage teams of technicians and ensure that all services are delivered efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Their responsibilities often include budgeting, scheduling maintenance, implementing safety procedures, and coordinating with other departments or agencies. They play a crucial role in ensuring reliable utility services for the community.

What job categories do people searching Utilities Superintendent jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Utilities Superintendent jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Utilities Superintendent job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,408 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Pipe Crew Superintendent - Underground Utilities

S.J. Louis

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Pipe Crew Superintendent - Underground Utilities
S.J. Louis Construction, Inc. | Nationwide (Traveling Role) | Full-Time
Position Overview
S.J. Louis Construction is seeking an experienced Pipe Crew Superintendent to lead field operations on heavy civil and underground infrastructure projects across the country. You will be the boots-on-the-ground leader responsible for safety, production, quality, and schedule on complex municipal and industrial projects including pump stations, large-diameter sewer and water pipelines, deep utility installation, and heavy civil infrastructure.
This is a traveling position. Project locations vary; S.J. Louis provides per diem, travel support, and competitive compensation to reflect the demands of the role.
What You'll Do
  • Supervise daily field construction activities; coordinate subcontractors, suppliers, and inspectors
  • Oversee trenching, excavation, utility installation, bedding, backfill, testing, and site restoration
  • Manage installation of gravity sewer, force mains, water mains, storm drainage, and underground structures
  • Coordinate utility tie-ins, shutdowns, bypass systems, and sequencing in active municipal environments
  • Review drawings and specs; identify and resolve field conflicts before they impact schedule
  • Enforce OSHA standards and company safety policies; lead daily toolbox talks and site inspections
  • Maintain daily reports, look-ahead schedules, and project documentation
  • Work closely with project managers, engineers, and owner representatives to keep projects on time and on budget
  • Reporting directly to either the general superintendent or project superintendent, depending on the size of project

Required Experience
  • 10+ years of heavy civil construction experience, with 5+ years as a Superintendent on municipal utility projects
  • Proven experience managing crews on projects valued at $5M-$50M+
  • Hands-on expertise with: gravity sewer, force mains, water mains, large-diameter pipelines (48-inch+), and pump stations
  • Deep understanding of trenching, shoring, dewatering, excavation support, and OSHA trench safety
  • Experience with Fiberglass Reinforced Pipe, Ductile Iron, HDPE, and Steel Pipe Systems
  • Familiarity with jack-and-bore, directional drilling, and other trenchless methods (preferred)
  • Ability to manage work within active municipal environments and public right-of-way while maintaining safety and operational continuity

Technical Knowledge & Tools
  • Strong working knowledge of utility construction sequencing, testing, and restoration requirements
  • Familiar with municipal utility standards and specifications
  • Proficient in Procore, Bluebeam, HCSS and Microsoft Office
  • Able to read and interpret civil/mechanical drawings and project specifications

Preferred Qualifications
  • OSHA 30 Certification
  • Excavation competent person training

Salary, Benefits & Total Compensation
S.J. Louis offers a competitive total compensation package designed to reward experienced field leaders. Salary starts at $120,000 and scales with experience and qualifications.
  • Base Salary: Starting at $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience
  • Company-paid travel: travel expenses covered when working away from home base
  • Daily per diem provided for all overnight project assignments
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

Who We're Looking For
You are a proven field leader who takes ownership of safety, quality, and production. You know how to build complex underground infrastructure safely and efficiently, communicate clearly with project teams and owners, and solve problems in the field before they become schedule or cost impacts. You are comfortable traveling and thrive on the challenge of diverse, complex projects.
Apply at :https://sjlouis.com/employment/sjlouis.com
EOE/M/W/VET/Disability/Drug-free/E-VERIFY