Construction Managers
Construction managers are like the directors of building projects, overseeing everything from skyscrapers to shopping centers from the first blueprint to the final inspection. They create budgets, coordinate teams of architects and engineers, and use project management software and mobile apps to track progress and solve problems on-site. This career combines leadership, problem-solving, and technical skills, and you can enter the field through construction management degrees, engineering programs, or by working your way up from construction jobs. Many construction managers work both in offices and on active construction sites, collaborating with diverse teams to bring amazing structures to life.
Did you know?
Most states require construction managers to obtain specific licenses or certifications, with requirements varying significantly across different jurisdictions.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$108,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Top skill
Judgment and Decision Making
Things to consider
OSHA Safety Compliance and Liability
Construction managers must maintain strict adherence to federal safety regulations and bear significant legal responsibility for workplace accidents and violations.
Economic Sensitivity and Market Volatility
The construction industry is highly sensitive to economic cycles, interest rates, and government infrastructure spending, affecting job stability and project availability.
Key responsibilities
Plan, schedule, or coordinate construction project activities to meet deadlines.
Determine labor requirements for dispatching workers to construction sites.
Secure third-party verification from sources, such as Leadership in Energy Efficient Design (LEED), to ensure responsible design and building activities or to achieve favorable LEED ratings for building projects.
Plan, organize, or direct activities concerned with the construction or maintenance of structures, facilities, or systems.
Investigate damage, accidents, or delays at construction sites to ensure that proper construction procedures are being followed.