A career in construction project management can be incredibly lucrative, though those considering this role may not know all the ins and outs of the job itself. Because construction projects must be completed on time and within budget, a construction project manager plays a vital role in ensuring everything runs smoothly.
If you’re considering a career in this field and wondering how to become a construction manager, read on to find out more about what this job requires.
What Is Construction Project Management?
Construction management is a career that involves coordinating and supervising all construction activities and tasks to ensure project delivery. This includes planning projects, coordinating teams, overseeing construction tasks, and guiding the project as a whole from start to finish.
Project management in construction may look slightly different from similar roles in other industries. This is because construction projects tend to have many moving parts, and managers must do their due diligence in following specific construction requirements, budget needs, and deadlines.
Construction project management is required for both residential and commercial construction projects. Management may be required for anything from a simple home to a large bridge, so project managers in this field should be well-versed in various projects and their individual construction processes.
Above all else, the goal of construction management is to minimize risk as much as possible. This would include safety concerns, project delays, and being over budget.
What Does a Construction Project Manager Do?
A construction project manager wears many hats to accomplish the same goal: ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget without compromising quality, efficiency, and worker safety.
Construction project manager duties and key responsibilities typically include:
- Planning and Budgeting: Develop project plans, timelines, and budgets.
- Site Management: Oversee the construction site, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Team Management: Lead a team of construction professionals, including architects, engineers, contractors, and more.
- Risk Management: Identify and mitigate potential risks.
- Quality Control: Ensure the project meets quality standards.
- Client Communication: Communicate with clients, keeping them informed about the project’s progress.
Construction project managers are the bridge between the client’s vision and the construction team’s execution. They ensure the project is completed successfully, meeting the client’s expectations and delivering a high-quality product.
How Much Do Construction Project Managers Make?
As of 2023, the median pay for a construction project manager was $104,900 per year or $50.43 per hour. However, this number can vary depending on many factors, including:
- Location
- Experience
- Education
- Certifications
- Company Size and Construction Industry
The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that construction management positions are set to grow by nine percent from 2023 to 2033, so this role is in high demand across the country.
5 Tips for Becoming a Construction Project Manager
Becoming a construction project manager requires a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and real-world experience. If you’re wondering how to be successful in a construction project manager position, consider the following tips.
1. Gain Education and Certifications
First, you’ll need the right education and certifications to pursue a career in construction project management. At a minimum, you’ll want a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field that can provide a strong foundation for this career.
You can also pursue additional certifications, such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification. Keeping up with the latest industry trends and knowledge will demonstrate your expertise and skillset and can even increase your earning potential.
2. Build Technical Skills
Beyond understanding construction processes, materials, and equipment, construction project managers must also develop other technical skills. This would include a general understanding of project management platforms and the skills needed for estimating costs, creating budgets, and managing finances.
3. Develop Soft Skills
Construction project management does require certain qualities and soft skills that can be easily attained and developed over time. These would include:
- Leadership: Project managers must be effective leaders who inspire and motivate their teams to achieve project goals.
- Communication: Strong communication skills are necessary for interacting with clients, team members, and stakeholders.
- Problem-Solving: Construction project managers must be prepared to address challenges and find creative solutions.
- Negotiation: Negotiation skills are beneficial for resolving conflicts and reaching agreements among all parties involved.
Developing these soft skills will help provide you with a solid foundation for managing others and will be valuable as you manage construction projects.
4. Gain Experience
There are multiple ways to gain experience as you come into a career as a construction project manager.
Internships are a great way for college students just starting in the field to gain experience. Consider seeking out these opportunities to gain hands-on experience in construction projects.
Entry-level construction positions, such as assistant project managers, can provide valuable day-to-day experience as you advance in your career.
5. Network and Build Relationships
Networking with others in the same field can offer additional knowledge and mentorship. Working with a mentor who is an experienced construction project manager can give you insight into the job and how you can improve your skills to work in the same position.
To build relationships in the field, consider attending industry events, such as conferences, trade shows, or networking events.
A job in construction project management can be very rewarding. As you navigate the world of construction projects and learn how to manage others, you will reap the benefits of this lucrative career.
Are you looking for your next construction project manager position? At Austin Nichols, we work with many firms and can place construction candidates in the Kansas City area. Contact us today to learn more.
