Construction Manager Career Guide

What Does a Construction Manager Do?

Construction managers (also called general contractors or project managers) plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish. They oversee everything from residential homes to commercial buildings, roads, and bridges, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification.

On a typical day, construction managers might prepare cost estimates, review blueprints, coordinate with architects and engineers, select and schedule subcontractors, monitor project progress, respond to delays or emergencies, and ensure compliance with building codes. They split time between office work and onsite supervision.

Key responsibilities include:

• Preparing budgets, cost estimates, and project timelines
• Interpreting contracts and technical information for stakeholders
• Collaborating with architects, engineers, and construction specialists
• Selecting subcontractors and coordinating their activities
• Monitoring projects and reporting progress to clients and firms
• Responding to work delays, emergencies, and project problems
• Ensuring projects comply with building codes and safety regulations

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Bachelor's degree in construction, business, engineering, or related field typical. Some advance with associate's degree plus extensive experience. High school diploma plus many years in trades also possible for self-employed contractors.
• Certifications: State licensing may be required (varies by state). Optional professional certifications (PMP, CCM) demonstrate expertise and aid advancement.
• Key Skills: Cost estimation, project management, blueprint reading, communication, leadership, decision-making, business acumen, technical knowledge of construction methods.
• Experience: Moderate on-the-job training (up to 1 year) typical. Many start in carpentry, masonry, or other trades before moving into management. Internships/co-ops valuable for degree holders.

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $106,980 ($51.43/hour)
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $65,160
• Experienced (90th percentile): $176,990
• Top-Paying Industries: Heavy/civil engineering construction ($121,060), Nonresidential building ($120,010)
• Lower-Paying Sectors: Residential building construction ($91,150), Specialty trade contractors ($102,140)

Note: Construction managers often earn bonuses tied to project success and business generation. Self-employed managers (36% of workforce) have variable earnings.

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment is projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 48,100 new jobs over the decade, with about 46,800 total openings annually when including replacement needs.

Growth drivers include:

• Population and business growth: Demand for new homes, offices, retail, hospitals, schools, and restaurants
• Infrastructure investment: Upgrading and replacing roads, bridges, and sewer systems
• Energy efficiency retrofits: Renovating existing buildings for sustainability
• Increasing complexity: Modern construction technology requires specialized management expertise

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or business. Alternatively, gain extensive experience (5-10+ years) in a construction trade. Coursework should include project management, cost estimation, and construction methods.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Start as assistant construction manager, project coordinator, or estimator. Work under experienced managers to learn the business. Or start in trades (carpenter, electrician) and work up through experience.
3. Build Skills: Learn construction software (Procore, Buildertrend), cost estimation, blueprint reading, scheduling. Participate in internships or co-ops during college. Develop leadership and communication skills.
4. Network: Join Associated General Contractors (AGC), Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), attend industry events, connect with contractors and developers in your region.
5. Apply Strategically: Target general contractors, specialty contractors, residential/commercial builders. 36% are self-employed, so entrepreneurship is an option. Use Indeed, LinkedIn, and construction-specific job boards.

Career Path & Advancement

Typical progression: Assistant manager → Construction manager → Senior manager → Project director → Vice President of construction or Owner/Operator (self-employed).

Experienced construction managers can advance to oversee multiple large projects, become senior executives at construction firms, or start their own contracting businesses. Some specialize in specific project types (residential, commercial, infrastructure) or move into real estate development.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Construction Manager, you might also consider:

• Civil Engineer – Design and supervise infrastructure projects ($99,590 median)
• Architect – Plan and design buildings and structures ($96,690 median)
• Cost Estimator – Analyze data to estimate project costs ($77,070 median)
• Project Management Specialist – Coordinate project details across industries ($100,750 median)
• Real Estate Developer – Plan and finance property development projects