Construction Management: What Is It?

Construction management is a form of project management.

It has many different aspects, but the most important one is that it consists of managing an entire construction site.

The project managers must coordinate the materials and human resources required to complete a project on time and within budget with the goal of meeting client demands.

Construction managers sometimes must oversee all aspects of a project, such as purchasing, contracting for services, and also other managerial duties such as scheduling work crews or staff members or overseeing progress reports and job costing.

Construction managers are generally employed by construction companies, engineering firms, private owners, or contractors.

Educational Background Requirements

Education and licensure requirements for construction managers vary depending on the state.

Most have at least a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management or a related field. Some states require candidates to become licensed, which requires passing an examination from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) or other organizations. To become licensed, applicants must also have experience managing projects.

Construction managers are generally employed by construction companies, engineering firms, private owners, or contractors. Their weekly work hours vary but generally average 40-45 hours per week.

Construction Manager Job Description and Role

Construction managers often hire contractors, subcontractors, and workers, supervise the workmanship on projects, prepare estimates and participate in bid presentations.

A construction manager may be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits for the project. They are also responsible for making sure that the project is built as specified in the contract.

They must make sure that site inspections and financial reports are completed and that all workers on the site follow safety procedures.

Some may serve as project owners or principals of their own companies.

Construction managers must be aware of codes, regulations, and legalities throughout the construction process.

Construction Management for Different Levels of Contracts

Construction Managers may attend one of the following certification tests to become Certified Construction Managers.

Project Managers are required by their employers to manage projects from preparation and bidding to completion. Project Managers must have excellent communication skills and be able to effectively communicate with others on a multitude of topics.

They must be experts in making decisions on the direction of a project and fully understanding all technical aspects that go into construction.

Project managers should have excellent organizational skills as well as computer skills, preferably Microsoft Excel.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are required to be successful in this role. Successful project managers also need to understand different levels of laws throughout the United States and how they apply to projects within their own state/country.

Project managers are generally employed by construction companies, engineering firms, private owners, or contractors.

The Future Of The Role

Several states in America are experiencing a shortage of construction managers.

The future of the role, however, is still unknown since it has a high demand and low supply.

As technology becomes more advanced, construction managers will gain more responsibilities. The skills that are needed to be successful in this field will become more important every year.