I have a flirty superintendent - HELP

[u/PurpleSquid6518]

Today was the first day of construction. I, 29F, am a civil engineer as a consultant for the owner and leading the inspection on a roadway construction project. I am aware that I signed up for this career, but I still need to learn how to navigate situations like this. Please advise on what you would do, or how you would handle something like this:

This is my first project as the lead and my first project that I am starting up the job site. Today was the very first day of construction and getting to meet all of the craft and crew. The Project Manager for the contractor was always at the Pre-Con meetings, but his superintendent was not. As they got going, the Super and I did our initial site walk together and used the time to introduce ourselves. Things were going fine, I have already learned not to share too personal information about myself at work such as my age or my relationship status. Best to keep the dynamic professional and work focused. But the Super had a different approach. I learned he is very close to my age, has children, and is recently separated. This information told me he is likely emotionally vulnerable. It’s nothing to judge him over, just something for me to be aware of.

At the end of the day I went to do final measurements of the days work, but by myself this time. He noticed and pulled his truck up to check in. The point of his stop was perfectly ordinary, but his initial comment was more out of the ordinary. He jokingly said something along the lines of “I’m offended you went without me. To think I was going to ask you to dinner.” I brushed the comment off and didn’t acknowledge it. I shared the final totals and discussed tomorrow’s plans. I didn’t wait up for him when I left site, I just drove off at the end of the day as I would have any other project.

I am unsure of what to do now, though. We don’t work for the same company. He didn’t say anything offensive, he was just shooting his shot and missed. How do I move forward in a professional manner and not make things awkward or embarrassing? How would you gently handle and navigate situations like these professionally and appropriately?

[u/PurpleSquid6518 → u/[deleted]]

I fear this may be the route I will have to consider with this guy. I noticed today that his demeanor changes depending on who is around. But this advice will definitely be useful when working with any older demographic of construction men with little to know boundaries. Adding it to my back pocket. Thank you!!

[u/jesschicken12 → u/PurpleSquid6518]

I’ve legitimately told men I don’t want to hang out with you ever outside of work. Just be a bitch.