Construction management encompasses the technical aspects of building and maintenance along with the administrative workings of project management—such as budgeting, regulatory compliance, bidding, and managing employees.
So what career paths are available? What can you expect in terms of salary or job outlook? And how can you get started?
That’s what we set out to answer in this blog. Keep reading to explore various careers in construction management, learn about the job market, and get practical tips on breaking into (and advancing in) the field.
Construction manager roles are comprised of many tasks to ensure a building project is completed on time, within budget, and according to established quality standards.
Responsibilities often include:
Planning and scheduling: Construction managers take blueprints and translate them into a workable plan, outlining the order of construction phases and assigning timelines. They’re responsible for creating a project schedule and budget and constantly monitoring progress to ensure everything stays on track.
Overseeing the site: This involves coordinating and directing workers from various disciplines, ensuring adherence to safety regulations, and managing subcontractors involved in specialized tasks.
Managing budgets: Construction managers track material costs and labour expenses and try to ensure the project stays within budget. They may also be tasked with identifying cost-saving opportunities throughout the building process.
Controlling quality: This role is responsible for ensuring that the finished product meets required standards and specifications. Managers do this by conducting regular inspections and working with quality control specialists.
Communicating and reporting: Construction managers act as a central point of communication between various stakeholders, including clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors. They provide regular progress reports and address any concerns that come up.
Succeeding in this field requires a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities. Some of the most important construction management skills are:
Communication: This is arguably the most crucial skill. Construction managers need excellent written and verbal communication skills to prepare reports and convey complex information to construction workers and other stakeholders.
Leadership and teamwork: Can you motivate and lead a team? Being able to delegate, foster collaboration, and resolve conflicts is also important.
Planning and organization: A major part of construction management positions involves keeping track of deadlines, resources, and budgets. You will constantly be called upon to prioritize tasks and adjust schedules to accommodate changes and delays and ensure the building process moves forward.
Technical knowledge: You must understand construction methods and materials as well as building codes and safety regulations. Staying updated on the latest construction management software and tools is also key.
Problem solving and critical thinking: Effective managers can think critically, analyze problems, and develop solutions to keep the project moving forward.
Construction management offers several potential paths that are typically divided into office-based and field-based roles (but keep in mind that field experience is invaluable in either case). Here are some popular options:
A construction office administrator handles clerical and administrative tasks to keep operations flowing smoothly. They control and manage project documentation like contracts, permits, and drawings; maintain and update project schedules; and help procure materials and equipment. They also provide general office support through coordinating meetings, maintaining supplies, and dealing with couriers.
A field engineer acts as the technical bridge between the project plans and physical construction, ensuring everything is built according to design and up to code. They conduct inspections, monitor progress, identify and resolve construction problems, manage subcontractors’ work, and inform project managers about any deviations or delays.
An estimator meticulously analyzes blueprints, specifications, and material quotes to create comprehensive cost estimates for construction projects. This involves researching labour rates, equipment rentals, and material costs. Estimating is about cost forecasting; estimators must take into account shifting prices and material availability as well as potential risks like unexpected water damage or material decay.
The project manager is the overall leader, overseeing all aspects from planning and budgeting to execution and completion. They develop a comprehensive schedule, track costs, provide direction to the construction workers and other team members, oversee quality control, and act as the central point of contact.
A site superintendent focuses on the day-to-day execution of the project. They spend most of their time on site, directly overseeing construction activities. They manage crews, schedule work phases, coordinate with subcontractors, conduct quality inspections, resolve problems, and connect with project managers regarding project progress.
An owner’s rep acts as the champion and advisor for the project owner throughout the entire construction process. They are not directly involved in construction; instead, they oversee the project to ensure it aligns with the owner’s vision and interests. They review plans and specifications, monitor contractor performance, and ensure quality control.
According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, construction managers have a good or very good outlook in most regions of the country, including Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Overall, BuildForce Canada expects construction employment in the residential and non-residential sectors to grow six and seven per cent, respectively, by 2028.
Regional forecasts also show solid growth in construction management. Ontario government data shows that the number of construction manager job postings in the province doubled between 2019 and 2023, with a further 6,100 openings expected between 2024 and 2028. And Manitoba is estimating that jobs in this field will grow by 18 per cent province-wide between 2022 and 2026.
Job Bank data reveals that the median construction management salary in Canada is $45 per hour, or roughly $94,000 per year. The highest earners make $71.43 per hour, which works out to about $149,000 per year.
How much you make will depend on your company, your experience level, and even your specific location. Here are the five regions with the highest median wages for construction managers (all figures from the Job Bank):
Construction management is poised for a wave of innovation, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Here are some key trends to watch:
Digital transformation: Expect wider adoption of building information modelling (BIM), which creates virtual models of structures to improve collaboration and efficiency. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also gaining traction, allowing for immersive project planning and worker training.
Prefabrication and modular construction: Increasingly, building components are manufactured off site in controlled environments. This reduces waste, improves quality, and speeds up project timelines.
The rise of smart construction sites: Sensors embedded in materials and equipment will monitor progress, identify potential issues, and optimize resource allocation.
Focus on sustainability: Like many other industries, construction is focusing on reducing its environmental footprint. Expect increased use of eco-friendly materials and green building practices.
Remote collaboration: Remote work arrangements are becoming more common. Construction managers will need to leverage collaboration tools and communication platforms to effectively manage teams spread across different locations.
Launching a career in construction management can be challenging, but there are things you can do to boost your odds of success.
First, be aware that hands-on experience matters in construction. Starting as a labourer or craft worker can provide excellent insight into the practical aspects of construction and help you understand how the work is done. Not every construction manager starts out with trades experience, but many do.
Post-secondary training can be helpful, too. You can choose to get either a diploma or degree in construction management. You’ll learn about preparing estimates, creating schedules, negotiating contracts, and more. Herzing’s construction management program even includes a five-week internship.
When it comes to applying for jobs, emphasize any real-world experience you have, including internships. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the niche or specialization of that particular employer (i.e., residential, commercial, or industrial construction). The more specific you can be, the better.
Even in entry-level roles, demonstrate initiative and a strong work ethic. Volunteer for additional responsibilities, ask a ton of questions, and showcase your eagerness to learn and grow.
Also, focus on developing good relationships with everyone around you: tradespeople, foremen, superintendents, etc. Always respect their judgment and never assume you know more than they do.
Herzing College’s construction management training is delivered online and takes just 44 weeks to complete. The program includes a five-week internship for real work experience.
Click below to learn more about the training and chat live with a friendly admissions advisor. We’re here to help!