Kiewit is a powerhouse in the construction and engineering industry, consistently ranking as one of the largest and most successful firms in North America. Founded in 1884, this employee-owned company has built a reputation for tackling massive, complex projects that shape the modern world. Whether you are looking for information on their major infrastructure projects, their unique company culture, or how to start a career with them, this guide provides a clear overview of everything you need to know about Kiewit.
Who is Kiewit?
Kiewit is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Unlike many large corporations, Kiewit is primarily employee-owned, which means the people working on the projects often have a personal stake in the company’s success.
The company operates through a network of decentralized units, allowing them to maintain the feel of a local contractor while leveraging the resources of a global giant. They serve a diverse range of markets, including transportation, energy, water, and mining.
With thousands of employees across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Kiewit is known for its technical expertise and its ability to deliver projects under challenging conditions. Their commitment to safety and quality has made them a preferred partner for both government agencies and private corporations.
Core Markets and Services
Kiewit’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. They do not just build buildings; they design and construct the critical infrastructure that keeps society functioning.
Transportation Infrastructure
Kiewit is a leader in the transportation sector, building the roads, bridges, and rail systems we use every day. They specialize in complex interchanges, massive suspension bridges, and high-speed transit lines.
Their transportation teams often work on “design-build” projects. This approach integrates the design and construction phases to save time and reduce costs for taxpayers and stakeholders.
Energy and Power
The company plays a vital role in the energy sector, from traditional power plants to renewable energy solutions. They construct gas-fired power plants, hydroelectric dams, and massive solar and wind farms.
Kiewit is also heavily involved in the oil, gas, and chemical industries. They build refineries, pipelines, and offshore platforms that are essential for global energy production.
Water and Wastewater
Providing clean water is a global priority, and Kiewit is at the forefront of this effort. They build water treatment plants, desalination facilities, and complex piping systems that deliver water to millions of people.
They also specialize in wastewater management, helping cities modernize their sewer systems to protect the environment and meet modern health standards.
Mining and Industrial
Kiewit’s roots are deep in the mining industry. They provide comprehensive services including mine planning, operations, and reclamation for various minerals and resources.
In the industrial sector, they build manufacturing plants and processing facilities. Their teams are trained to handle the specialized equipment and safety protocols required in these high-stakes environments.
Notable Projects and Achievements
Kiewit’s portfolio includes some of the most iconic engineering feats in North America. These projects demonstrate their ability to handle immense scale and technical difficulty.
- The Holland Tunnel: Kiewit played a significant role in the renovation and maintenance of this vital link between New York and New Jersey.
- The Fort McMurray Oil Sands: They have completed numerous massive projects in the Canadian oil sands, demonstrating their ability to work in extreme climates.
- The Oroville Dam Spillway: After the emergency at the Oroville Dam in California, Kiewit was brought in to perform rapid, high-quality repairs to ensure public safety.
- Decentralized Power Plants: They have successfully built dozens of high-efficiency power plants that provide electricity to millions of homes across the U.S.
Working at Kiewit: Careers and Culture
For many engineering and construction professionals, Kiewit is a top-tier employer. The company is known for its rigorous training programs and its “work hard, play hard” culture.
The Employee-Ownership Model
One of the most unique aspects of Kiewit is its ownership structure. Many employees have the opportunity to buy stock in the company, which fosters a culture of accountability and shared success.
This model encourages long-term thinking and high levels of dedication. Employees are not just workers; they are owners who are invested in the quality of every project.
Entry-Level and Internship Programs
Kiewit is highly active on college campuses, recruiting the next generation of engineers, estimators, and project managers. Their internship program is famous for being “hands-on,” often putting students directly into the field.
New hires often enter a rotational program. This allows them to gain experience in different departments before specializing in a specific area like field engineering or safety management.
Commitment to Safety
The phrase “Nobody Gets Hurt” is the cornerstone of Kiewit’s safety philosophy. They invest millions of dollars annually in safety training and equipment to ensure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day.
Safety is not just a set of rules at Kiewit; it is a core value. Every meeting starts with a safety briefing, and every employee is empowered to stop work if they see a potential hazard.
How to Connect with Kiewit
Whether you are a subcontractor looking for work or a job seeker looking for a career, there are specific ways to engage with the company.
- For Job Seekers: Visit the official Kiewit careers page to view current openings. They hire for a wide range of roles, from craft workers and welders to senior project managers.
- For Subcontractors: Kiewit often partners with local businesses. They have a formal pre-qualification process for subcontractors to ensure they meet the company’s standards for safety and quality.
- For Clients: If you are looking to hire Kiewit for a project, you can contact their regional offices. They have locations in most major North American hubs.
Sustainability and Innovation
As the construction industry evolves, Kiewit is investing in sustainable building practices. They are increasingly focused on reducing the carbon footprint of their projects and using environmentally friendly materials.
Innovation is also a key focus. Kiewit uses advanced technology like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones for site surveying, and sophisticated data analytics to improve project efficiency and accuracy.
By staying at the cutting edge of technology, they are able to deliver projects faster and with fewer errors. This focus on the future ensures they remain a leader in a competitive global market.
Summary of What Makes Kiewit Unique
Kiewit stands out in the construction world because of its scale, its employee-ownership model, and its unwavering focus on safety. They are a company that values hard work, integrity, and technical excellence.
From building the bridges we drive across to the plants that power our homes, Kiewit’s impact is visible everywhere. Their ability to manage massive projects while maintaining a local, personal touch makes them a unique player in the industry.
Finding the right construction partner or employer can be a challenge, but understanding the history and values of a company like Kiewit is a great first step. If you found this guide helpful, you may want to explore our other articles on career development in engineering or how large-scale infrastructure projects are funded and managed.