Construction Project Manager Description

Construction project managers are ultimately responsible for the completion of a construction project.

Construction projects require a manager to oversee their successful completion. Managers supervise construction staff and coordinate all jobs within the project. Construction project managers may be salaried employees of a construction firm or self-employed business owners.

Duties

Construction project managers plan construction projects and schedule all aspects of the work. They are also responsible for the project's budget and for hiring specialty trade contractors. Construction project managers also secure all necessary licenses and permits for projects.

Education

Many employers require construction project managers to have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, building science or construction science. Work experience in the field coupled with an associate's degree may also be acceptable.

Working Conditions

Construction project managers are often required to be on call 24 hours a day in case an emergency occurs at the construction site. More than one-third of construction manager worked a standard 40-hour week in 2008, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages for construction project managers were $79,860 as of May 2008.

Employment Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for construction project managers will grow by 17 percent by 2018, which is a faster rate than the average for all occupations.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Construction Managers

Resources

• Construction Management Association of America: Home Page