Construction Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate, usually through subordinate supervisory personnel, activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems. Participate in the conceptual development of a construction project and oversee its organization, scheduling, budgeting, and implementation. Includes managers in specialized construction fields, such as carpentry or plumbing.

What you'd actually do

• Plan, schedule, or coordinate construction project activities to meet deadlines.
• Prepare and submit budget estimates, progress reports, or cost tracking reports.
• Interpret and explain plans and contract terms to representatives of the owner or developer, including administrative staff, workers, or clients.
• Direct and supervise construction or related workers.
• Prepare contracts or negotiate revisions to contractual agreements with architects, consultants, clients, suppliers, or subcontractors.
• Confer with supervisory personnel, owners, contractors, or design professionals to discuss and resolve matters, such as work procedures, complaints, or construction problems.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

The feel of the work

Much of the work happens outdoors; you're around people constantly; it rewards working independently. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 35.8% of construction managers are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are take-charge, organized and detail-focused and hands-on.

Related careers

• Administrative Services Managers
• Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers
• Facilities Managers
• Medical and Health Services Managers
• General and Operations Managers
• Education Administrators, Postsecondary

Quick questions

How much does a construction manager make?

The median pay is $55.28 per hour — roughly $115,000 a year, with the real range running from about $33.50/hr (10th percentile) to $91.08/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a construction manager?

The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

What does a construction manager actually do all day?

Plan, schedule, or coordinate construction project activities to meet deadlines. Prepare and submit budget estimates, progress reports, or cost tracking reports. Interpret and explain plans and contract terms to representatives of the owner or developer, including administrative staff, workers, or clients.