Construction management oversees every aspect of a building project, including cost control, design, and construction law. A bachelor’s degree or diploma is typical, but experience can also lead to certification. The industry offers good career prospects and earning potential, with large companies hiring their own management staff.
Construction management is a professional field that focuses on every part of the construction process of any built environment. Typically includes commercial building sites or multi-unit residential sites, but usually not single-family residential sites. Site management may be handled by a general contractor or a separate entity, and the staff or firm reports to the developer and is responsible for overseeing every aspect of the project from start to finish.
Many people who work in this field have a bachelor’s degree or diploma, but in some cases, a person with many years of experience can be certified as a construction manager without any tertiary education. Additionally, some areas may require a Masters in Construction Management for certain projects. Areas of study include advanced mathematics, design and construction law, architecture, appraisal, accounting, and business. Construction is one of the largest industries in the United States, and career prospects in the industry are good. Employment opportunities exist in both the private sector and government.
During a typical project, construction management personnel are responsible for overseeing each phase of construction and resolving any discrepancies in the original project design and actual implementation. They are also responsible for the cost of a project and must control the cost of material and labor. They may work with one or more site-specific project managers, architects, and supervisors, often simultaneously in both an office and hardhat environment. In addition to overseeing the physical construction phases of a project, construction management must also be familiar with design and construction laws – such as OSHA regulations and building codes in the United States, and serve as a point of contact for all matters. Equally important is delivering each phase of a project within a given time frame and budget, right through to the completed building or buildings.
Construction management firms vary in size and some provide their services exclusively to small general contractors. Large construction companies generally hire their own management staff. The earning potential for jobs in this field varies by region, but can easily reach six figures with experience and a reputation for effectively managing larger, multimillion-dollar projects.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
