Submittal
A submittal is a key document package in construction projects that needs approval before work can begin. It's like a detailed proposal that shows exactly what materials, equipment, or methods will be used in construction. Think of it as a contractor's "homework" that needs the architect's or engineer's approval. This process helps ensure everything meets project requirements and building codes. The term can refer to shop drawings, material samples, product data, or any documentation that needs review. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has experience preparing, reviewing, or managing these important approval documents.
Examples in Resumes
Managed over 200 submittal reviews for a $50M commercial building project
Streamlined submittal process reducing review time by 40%
Created and maintained digital submittal tracking system for multiple construction projects
Coordinated submittals between contractors, architects, and project owners
Typical job title: "Submittal Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Submittal Coordinators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple submittals are rejected and causing project delays?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss their experience with problem-solving, coordination between parties, and maintaining project schedules while ensuring quality standards are met. They should mention tracking systems, communication strategies, and preventive measures.
Q: Describe your experience implementing or improving a submittal management system.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience with both digital and traditional systems, process improvement, and training others. Should discuss how their improvements impacted project efficiency and team coordination.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What is your process for tracking and managing multiple submittals simultaneously?
Expected Answer: Should explain their organization system, how they prioritize urgent submittals, and methods for following up on pending approvals. Should mention experience with submittal tracking software.
Q: How do you ensure submittal compliance with project specifications?
Expected Answer: Should discuss their review process, attention to detail, and understanding of how to compare submittal contents against project requirements and specifications.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the key components of a complete submittal package?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic elements like product data, shop drawings, samples, and manufacturer information, showing understanding of standard submittal requirements.
Q: Explain the typical submittal review process.
Expected Answer: Should describe the basic flow from contractor submission through review by various parties (architect, engineer, owner) and understand common approval stamps and markings.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic submittal package preparation
- Document organization and filing
- Understanding of construction documents
- Basic tracking and logging
Mid (2-5 years)
- Submittal review and processing
- Digital submittal management systems
- Coordination with multiple parties
- Schedule management
Senior (5+ years)
- Process improvement and optimization
- Team training and supervision
- Complex project coordination
- Quality control management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with submittal tracking systems
- Poor attention to detail in documentation
- Lack of understanding of construction document flow
- Limited communication skills
- No knowledge of basic construction terminology
Related Terms
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