Final answer:
The general contractor (GC) has the overall job site authority and is responsible for daily oversight, managing vendors and trades, and ensuring the project complies with plans, specifications, time, and budget.
Step-by-step explanation:
The contractor type that typically has the overall job site authority is known as the general contractor (GC). The general contractor is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the construction site, management of vendors and trades, and the communication of information to all involved parties throughout the course of a building project. The GC is the primary point of contact for the job and has the authority to make decisions on-site; they ensure that the project is constructed according to the plans and specifications and within the stipulated time and budget.
The role of the general contractor often includes a variety of tasks such as providing materials, labor, equipment, and services; applying for building permits; securing the property; providing temporary utilities on-site; managing personnel on-site; providing site surveying and engineering; disposing or recycling of construction waste; monitoring schedules and cash flows; and maintaining accurate records.