what is it like to work as a construction manager?
Construction managers oversee the building process from start to finish. Their role involves collaborating with other construction workers to ensure the project is completed on time and within the specified budget. They conduct regular inspections to identify safety issues and ensure that the structure complies with the design plans.
Construction managers are responsible for an entire area or a major part of a large project within bigger companies. When working on a construction phase, they report to the senior construction manager and collaborate with other construction managers to ensure the work proceeds smoothly.
what does a construction manager do?
The construction manager prepares the site before construction begins, recruits construction workers, and plans the work schedule. They oversee the setup of temporary onsite offices. During the construction process, they monitor progress, supervise the transportation and use of materials, conduct safety inspections, and resolve issues that arise on the construction site. Additionally, they keep clients informed about the project's progress and ensure that contractors implement any requested modifications from the clients.
Construction managers work in the building industry, overseeing a variety of projects, including commercial, residential, and industrial construction projects.
check out our latest construction job openings.
construction manager jobs
average salary of construction managers.
Our salary calculator allows you to explore pay ranges and see how much a beginner or experienced construction manager earns.
want to know how much a construction manager earns? check out our salary calculator!
salary calculatorhow can construction managers earn more?
The construction manager's salary depends on the location of the job, their level of education, and their level of responsibility. If they work in major cities, their earnings are higher than those working in smaller towns. Most employers tailor the compensation package to match the cost of living. Additionally, the high demand for senior construction managers in big cities further boosts their earning prospects.
Working at a large construction company, you can expect a higher compensation package because more resources are available, and the company can pay more than smaller firms. Additionally, you have the opportunity to earn more by taking on extra responsibilities.
types of construction supervisor positions.
Construction managers, depending on the types of construction projects they work on, can specialize in the following areas:
- Residential building construction supervisor: oversee and monitor the construction of residential buildings. They plan the construction process, procure the necessary materials, and coordinate the workers involved in the project. They ensure that architectural plans are followed and conduct regular safety inspections.
- Commercial building construction manager: oversees the construction of offices and industrial areas. Their responsibilities include managing workers and ensuring the project meets client specifications. Commercial projects are large-scale, and they may only be responsible for a small part of the entire project.
working as a construction manager.
Working as a construction manager requires perseverance and critical thinking to handle any issues that arise on the construction site. Get to know the daily activities, working hours, and job outlook for construction managers.
-
responsibilities of the construction manager
The construction manager's responsibilities generally include the following:
- Construction supervision: responsible for ensuring proper management of the construction site and construction activities. Monitors the progress of the project by organizing daily work tasks and weekly or monthly milestones. Evaluates the team's performance based on achieved milestones. Additionally, ensures that the construction site complies with safety regulations.
- Maintaining client relationships: reports project progress to the client. Communicates any schedule or budget changes and ensures approval for implementing these modifications on the construction plans. Share updates with the construction team. As a liaison between the construction personnel and the client, it’s important to stay informed about all aspects of the project to prepare detailed reports.
- Selection of materials and tools: responsible for sourcing the materials and tools used. Their role is to find suppliers and ensure that the delivered materials meet quality standards. Efficient tools help minimize project delays.
- On-site inspections: construction sites must comply with building regulations to meet the required quality standards. As a construction manager, you are responsible for on-site safety and adherence to construction rules. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure that workers follow the established safety and regulatory practices.
-
work environment
The construction supervisor works on the construction site. Sometimes, they perform administrative tasks, which are carried out in an office environment; however, their primary work takes place outdoors on the construction site. They work in all weather conditions, including in hazardous areas, so they wear protective gear to prevent accidents. The role also involves working at heights, especially when inspecting roofing. While travel is minimal at the start of a project, they may travel frequently between different project sites.
-
who does a construction manager work with?
Construction managers work in the building industry, so their colleagues may include cost estimators, technical planners, and contractors. They also collaborate with architects, building services engineers, surveyors, and other professionals, including project managers and accountants.
-
working hours schedule
The typical workweek for construction managers is 40 hours. They spend their entire day on the construction site until the team finishes the job. In addition, they spend a few hours in the office handling paperwork. Most construction managers work full-time, but short-term contracts and part-time positions are also available. They cannot work from home, as they closely monitor the progress of the projects.
-
development opportunities
A construction manager typically begins their career as a construction worker or as an assistant to a construction supervisor. With experience and additional qualifications, they can advance into leadership roles within the construction industry. Construction managers are usually promoted to positions such as project manager or construction manager. Some may specialize in cost estimation to become technical estimators.
-
why it's worth looking for a construction manager position through randstad
There are several advantages to seeking a construction manager position with the assistance of a Randstad consultant.
- a consultant with in-depth knowledge of the construction sector of the labor market supports the selection process.
- you can find a wide range of job opportunities on our website.
- whether you're looking for a fixed-term or indefinite position, we help you find the job that best fits you
required studies and skills.
studies.
To work as a construction manager, it is essential to acquire professional knowledge. It is advisable to choose one of the following training programs to get started:
-
a university degree
It can serve as a solid starting point, for example, with an undergraduate degree in fields like civil engineering or architecture. In most cases, further advancement requires at least a university qualification.
-
trade worker training
Completing the construction technical inspector training allows you to already fill entry-level positions in the field.
skills.
The following skills are required for a construction manager to perform their duties:
-
communication skills
As a construction manager, you work with a variety of construction professionals, from general laborers and surveyors to designers. Additionally, you hold discussions about budgets and construction plans with clients, relying on strong communication skills to explain project details in simple terms. Therefore, effective communication is essential to ensure the construction project proceeds as planned.
-
decision-making skills
Their primary role is to ensure that construction projects are completed on time and within budget. The construction process involves numerous decisions, from selecting the best materials to choosing the most effective construction methods. Strong decision-making skills help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option and determine the best course of action.
-
problem-solving skills
The ability to find cost-effective and innovative solutions to challenges.
-
awareness of cost consciousness
As a construction manager, you ensure that the construction project stays within budget. Therefore, industry knowledge and market awareness are essential; the latter helps you develop ways to reduce costs and optimize project scheduling.
frequently asked questions.
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions regarding the construction manager position.
-
what is the role of a construction manager?
The construction manager maintains communication with clients and reports on the project's progress. They oversee the construction workers and contractors to ensure that work stays on schedule. Additionally, they are responsible for procuring building materials at each phase of the project and monitoring construction costs.
-
what is the difference between a construction manager and a project manager?
The construction supervisor's primary responsibility is focused on the physical execution of the project, including careful oversight and coordination of construction workers and subcontractors, ensuring workplace safety, procuring materials, and managing daily issues on the construction site. The project manager plays a broader and more strategic role, overseeing the entire project management process. This includes project planning, budgeting, preparing status reports, tracking deadlines, and aligning project performance with client requirements. While the construction supervisor's authority is mainly limited to the physical construction site, the project manager's scope extends to all aspects of the project, requiring higher-level strategic planning and extensive communication with various stakeholders. Overall, the construction supervisor and the project manager complement each other in project management. Their collaboration is key to the successful execution of a construction project.
-
what makes a good construction manager?
A good construction manager needs to have a broad understanding of the construction industry. They interpret architectural plans and oversee the construction team to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. A skilled construction manager pays attention to details and closely monitors every aspect of the project. Strong leadership skills are also essential to motivate and guide the construction workers effectively.
-
is being a construction manager a good job?
Working as a construction manager offers exciting career opportunities. There are excellent prospects for career growth, and it also comes with an attractive salary.
-
how can I apply for a construction manager position?
Applying for a construction manager position is easy: create your profile on Randstad, and browse our job offers near you. Once logged in, you can apply with just one click for the opportunity that interests you directly through our website!