what is a construction project manager?

While managers are crucial in all projects, their significance increases with construction projects. Their oversight is essential for safely and efficiently creating crucial structures like bridges, hospitals, and office buildings. Construction project managers require a unique skill set beyond basic project management requirements. This includes industry knowledge and practical experience.

As a construction project manager, your main task involves coordinating and bringing together essential elements to complete a building. Unlike other projects, construction projects work on a mission-focused approach and deal with unique constraints linked to building designs. As a result, managing the progress of a residential building differs significantly from that of a commercial property.

The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) states that the construction project manager's role involves collaborating with and overseeing the project's stakeholders.

In the construction project management role, you will guide a team of construction experts—proprietors, general contractors, architects, trade contractors, designers, subcontractors, and laborers—through a series of tasks to complete the project.

In addition to overseeing labor distribution and construction site management, you're also responsible for careful resource planning to ensure workers use resources wisely to prevent delays and shortages in the project.

Would working as a construction project manager suit your skill or interest? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a construction project manager role.

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average salary of a construction project manager

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals in construction project management earn an annual median salary of $98,890. To break it down, this translates to roughly $47.55 per hour, which is around $1,901 per week or $8,240 per month.

factors influencing project manager salary

In this industry, several factors influence your compensation. If you want to increase your earnings, consider the factors that affect your pay.

Close up - Smiling male looking away.
Close up - Smiling male looking away.
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types of construction project managers

The types of construction project management roles vary based on the employer. You'll typically be stationed at the construction site if you work for a contractor. Your role involves overseeing site employees and handling resources for the contractor.

Alternatively, you might be a construction project manager hired by a company or client to lead a project. In this scenario, you answer to the client and oversee all project aspects. Managers sometimes require you to present project progress and expected completion time.

Based on your employer, you can be a project management specialist, project management consultant, portfolio manager, program manager, or director of project management.

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working as a construction project manager

Construction project managers may only sometimes have a clear understanding of their responsibilities due to the overwhelming tasks and interactions with various stakeholders. As a construction project manager, you hold a central role in the project team, and the team's success heavily relies on you.

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construction project manager skills and education

Most construction project managers hold academic backgrounds in fields like construction engineering, construction science, building science, or broader areas like engineering, mathematics, and architecture. As mentioned earlier, having a master's degree in construction can enhance career prospects. But if you lack these degrees, don't worry.

You can pursue courses in project control and management, building codes, design, construction methods, materials, and related subjects. These courses offer insights into the construction industry and its requirements. The construction industry requires you to have the following:

  • undergraduate degree: Certain companies consider an associate degree in construction management and work experience a strong foundation. For those without academic degrees, work experience is crucial. Other employers value apprenticeships, where you go through various project management roles to advance your career.
  • certifications: These documents also contribute to becoming a competent construction project manager. For instance, in the United States, certificates in construction project management from recognized institutions come in handy when searching for a construction project management position.

If you wish to progress in your career, it helps to take extra courses in fields like cost estimation, accident prevention, plumbing codes, and civil construction. However, these programs' availability depends on the school and program and typically requires a bachelor's degree.

skills and competencies

Developing additional skills and competencies enhances your capabilities as a project manager. Some of these skills include:

  • communication: Effective communication is vital when leading a team. Skillful communication ensures that you relay goals and provide clear instructions. Written communication is valuable for creating schedules, assigning tasks, and drafting reports.
  • leadership: As a construction project manager, you motivate and inspire fellow workers, guiding them toward project objectives. This involves setting an example through dedication and proactive adherence to safety and quality standards.
  • interpersonal skills: As a construction project manager, listening to team members and incorporating their input into your plan is essential. Proficiency in team management also bolsters your leadership prowess.
  • risk management: Given project uncertainties, readiness to handle potential issues is crucial. Proficiency in risk management aids in anticipating problems and devising solutions.

 

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three people sitting and having a conversation
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FAQs about working as a construction project manager

Here, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about construction project managers.

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