Want to become a construction manager? Whether you’re a newly aspiring leader or are already in the profession but want to advance your career, this guide can help you navigate the path toward your professional goals.
Learn How to Become a Construction Manager
Key Takeaways:
● Becoming a construction manager requires a blend of educational background,
industry experience, skills, and relevant certifications.
● Most employers seek construction managers with at least a bachelor’s degree.
● While technical proficiency is essential, don’t overlook the need to cultivate
business management and other soft skills that drive positive outcomes.
● Massachusetts ranks third in the nation for construction manager salaries.
1. Earn Your Degree
A college education is an important first step toward becoming a construction manager, as it provides the foundational knowledge to interpret blueprints, assess structural integrity, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
For most entry-level positions, educational requirements include a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related discipline. Some employers may accept candidates with relevant experience or associate degrees, but many prefer a bachelor's degree.
Moreover, a master’s degree in construction management can give individuals an edge over the competition and increase their eligibility for higher-level positions.
2. Obtain Relevant Industry Experience
Obtaining real-world experience is critical in the pursuit of a career in construction
management.
During a bachelor’s or master’s degree program, students might complete special
projects, a thesis, or an internship to hone their skills and gain hands-on experience
with the techniques and applications used in the profession.
After graduation, individuals might continue to develop their abilities while working in the industry. This could involve working in various roles, such as construction laborer, carpenter, electrician, plumber, or equipment operator, to gain a firsthand understanding of construction techniques, tools, and processes.
Additionally, experience in site supervision roles, such as construction supervisor or
foreman, offers insight into managing construction sites. Other positions, including
assistant project manager, project coordinator, or field engineer, provide valuable
project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and coordination exposure.
3. Build Essential Skills & Proficiencies
To land the job and succeed in the profession, construction managers should
demonstrate a robust set of technical abilities and an understanding of business
operations, management, and other soft skills. These include:
Technical Knowledge:
Construction managers should have a solid understanding of construction techniques, building codes, regulations, and industry standards relevant to their projects.
They must also ensure a safe working environment for all project stakeholders.
Therefore, construction managers should know about safety standards, implement
safety protocols, and promote a culture of safety on construction sites.
Management & Business Skills:
Construction managers manage multiple aspects of construction projects simultaneously. This means that strong organizational skills are essential for prioritizing tasks, managing resources, and maintaining project documentation.
Managers also oversee project budgets, track expenses, and ensure cost-effective
resource use. Proficiency in budgeting and cost control are important for managing
project finances.
Other business-related skills include building trust and maintaining positive client
relationships; contract negotiation with subcontractors, suppliers, and other service
providers; and risk assessment for delays, cost overruns, and safety hazards.
Soft Skills:
In addition to technical proficiencies and the ability to manage business operations
effectively, a variety of soft skills help construction managers succeed. These include team management, conflict resolution, collaboration, time management, problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and leadership.
4. Networking & Professional Development
Building professional relationships within the construction industry is one of the best ways to discover job and professional growth opportunities.
Individuals can do this by attending industry events, joining professional organizations such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) or the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and connecting with peers, mentors, and potential employers at job fairs or other school-sponsored events.
5. Apply for Jobs
In addition to networking, job seekers can benefit from strategically searching for open positions on job boards like LinkedIn. They can also use their university’s alumni network for job leads and advice.
Individuals should also review their résumés and gather any relevant portfolio materials before applying for jobs. Many colleges and universities offer services to help with these tasks. For example, the Career Services and Advising Center at Fitchburg State University provides resources to assist students at each stage of the job search, including crafting a résumé and cover letter, mock interviews, and more.
- Assistant project manager
- Field engineer
- Field technician
- Junior estimator
- Project administrator
- Project coordinator
Salary & Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for construction workers will
increase by 5% by 2032. That’s faster than the national average for all professions, and it’s no wonder why — construction workers play a significant role in the labor force, from building the roads we drive each day to the hospitals we rely on during times of need.
Construction managers receive ample compensation for the vital work they do, with an average annual salary of $104,900. In Massachusetts, the annual mean salary for
construction managers is $144,830, third in the nation!
Learn more about careers in construction management, including skills and qualifications, licensing requirements,
and more.
Considering a Construction Management Degree? Choose Fitchburg State University
Start or advance your education at Fitchburg State in our Bachelor of Science in
Construction Management or Master of Science in Construction Management program.
Which Program Is Right for You?
Bachelor’s Degree Program:
Ideal for recent high school graduates or working professionals looking to go back to school, the construction management bachelor’s degree program consists of daytime classes and an internship that prepares you for work with local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.
Master’s Degree Program:
Our 100% online master’s in construction management program suits working
professionals seeking to advance their careers and attain higher-level management
roles. Students interested in this program should already have a BS in construction
management or a related field.
Career Support for Prospective Construction Management Students
Fitchburg State University students — enrolled in both online and in-person programs — can take advantage of our many resources, including the Career Services and Advising Center.
The Career Services team can meet with students to develop their major-to-career
action plans, secure alumni job shadowing opportunities, prepare for interviews,
network, and more.
Learn More About Fitchburg State’s Construction Management Programs
Have questions? We’ve got you covered. Reach out to us to learn more about our
programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need Previous Experience to Become a Construction Manager?
Previous experience in the construction industry is beneficial for aspiring construction managers. Entry-level positions such as construction worker, assistant project manager, estimator, or field engineer can provide valuable hands-on experience and industry insight.
Do Construction Managers Need Specific Certifications or Licensure?
Licensure or certification requirements vary by state, though obtaining certification can enhance credibility and job prospects. The Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) is one option for construction managers. Moreover, the CCM is required in the state of Massachusetts.
Learn more about licensure requirements.
What Skills Should a Construction Manager Have?
Construction managers should cultivate and demonstrate skills in leadership,
communication, problem-solving, time management, decision-making, and technical proficiency such as knowledge of construction techniques, building codes, and project management software.
What Are the Typical Career Paths for Construction Managers?
Construction managers can advance their careers by gaining experience, pursuing
advanced degrees or certifications, and taking on leadership roles in larger or more
complex projects. Career paths may include roles such as project manager, field
engineer, general contractor, construction superintendent, or senior construction
manager. Explore more career opportunities
Explore more career opportunities, including salary potential, industry outlook, job responsibilities, and more.
Why Become a Construction Manager?
The construction management career path is ideal for those who wish to participate in this system and build a better future for their communities.
The infrastructure all around us was built by construction professionals and managed by project managers. Bridges, roadways, commercial buildings, homes — these structures enable us to live in a well-functioning society. Being able to rely on the production, integrity, and quality of the buildings, motorways, and facilities that empower everyday life supports our economic growth, optimizes the utilization of resources, and ensures safety compliance.
