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How much on the job experience do you need to be a construction manager?

I am interested working for my family outdoor water and sever company and am hoping to one day take over the company. I am also wondering what the salary is for a job like this. Along with the salary as when you start working.

Thank you comment icon Start with the lowest position on the company and work you way up like a regular person. Learned the in and out of each position no college degree is going to teach you that. Rolando Caraballo

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Subject: Career question for you

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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Garrett,

Pathway to Becoming a Construction Manager:

To carve out a successful career as a construction manager, it's generally expected that you have a substantial amount of hands-on experience in the construction sector. The duration of this experience can fluctuate based on the employer's preferences, the specific role you're applying for, and the intricacy of the projects you'll be handling. However, a ballpark figure that most employers are comfortable with is around 5-7 years of pertinent experience in construction.

Having a wide-ranging experience in different facets of construction management is vital. This includes proficiency in project planning, scheduling, budgeting, managing resources, coordinating with subcontractors, and supervising the project in its entirety. As a construction manager, you're the captain of the ship, overseeing every aspect of a construction project from inception to completion. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the construction process is indispensable.

Many construction managers kick-start their careers in basic roles such as construction laborers or assistants, gradually climbing up the corporate ladder. This hands-on experience in diverse roles within the construction sector can equip you with invaluable insights and skills, which are the building blocks for a successful career as a construction manager.

Earnings of a Construction Manager:

The income of construction managers can swing based on various factors like experience, education, geographical location, and the magnitude and scope of the projects they manage. As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median yearly income for construction managers stood at $95,260 as of May 2020. The bottom 10% earned less than $56,140, while the top-tier 10% earned in excess of $164,790.

Initial salaries for construction managers can range from approximately $50,000 to $70,000 annually, contingent on factors like the geographical location and the level of experience. As you accumulate more experience and undertake larger and more intricate projects, your earning potential as a construction manager is set to rise.

Top 3 Credible Sources Consulted:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS is a federal organization that furnishes data on employment statistics, including details on professions such as construction managers. Their data is widely acknowledged as authoritative and trustworthy in the realm of labor economics.

Construction Management Association of America (CMAA): The CMAA is a professional organization committed to promoting professional construction and program management globally. They offer valuable resources and information on industry best practices.

Associated General Contractors of America (AGC): The AGC is a premier association representing the construction industry. They provide insights into industry trends, advocacy efforts, and resources for professionals engaged in construction management.

These sources played a pivotal role in furnishing accurate and current information on the experience necessary to become a construction manager and the earnings prospects in this field.

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
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Karin’s Answer

Hi Garrett,

To be a construction manager, at least a bachelors degree in a construction-related field or business is recommended to find employment. CM with only an associates degree or only high-school do exist, but in today's competitive world I wouldn't recommend going that path. You might need a license. And you can earn additional certificates to set yourself apart.

Experience is very important too. Depending on your education, bachelors vs associates or only high-school, the required experience can differ in length. New construction managers typically work under an experienced CM for a few years. I would recommend that you get some experience outside of the family business before you take over. You'll gain a broader experience and be more flexible.

I have attached links to a bit more information. I hope this helps! Good luck!

KP

Karin recommends the following next steps:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/construction-managers.htm
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-construction-manager
Thank you comment icon Its a very small family company. Its like 2 crews of 3 I was thinking about working on a crew and then eventually run my own crew when the time comes. Then be the business owner of the company. I am also considering the more construction manager side of things with a larger company. I just like doing the work not managing, so I am seriously considering working on family crew. What do you think the best way to go is? Garrett
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