Construction Manager role in AEC — architecture engineering construction
AEC Career Library

Construction Manager: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data

Construction Managers plan, coordinate, and oversee construction projects from inception to completion. They manage budgets, schedules, quality, safety, and all stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery. This role requires both technical construction knowledge and strong business and people management skills.

What Does a Construction Manager Do?

Construction Managers plan, coordinate, and oversee construction projects from inception to completion. They manage budgets, schedules, quality, safety, and all stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery. This role requires both technical construction knowledge and strong business and people management skills.

What Does a Construction Manager Responsible For?

  • Plan and manage all aspects of construction projects
  • Develop and maintain project schedules and budgets
  • Coordinate subcontractors, suppliers, and project teams
  • Manage procurement and contract administration
  • Ensure quality control and safety compliance
  • Communicate with owners, architects, and stakeholders
  • Resolve project issues and manage change orders
  • Monitor project performance and financial reporting

Construction Manager Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Skills

  • 5-10 years of construction project management experience
  • Proficient in Procore, MS Project, Primavera P6, Bluebeam
  • Strong understanding of construction methods, means, and sequencing
  • Budget management and cost control expertise
  • Contract administration and procurement knowledge
  • Scheduling and project planning skills
  • Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations

Professional Competencies

  • Excellent leadership and team management
  • Strong communication and negotiation skills
  • Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Client relationship management
  • Conflict resolution and stakeholder management
  • Organizational and multitasking capabilities

Education & Certifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field

Certifications:

CCM (Certified Construction Manager), PMP, LEED AP preferred; OSHA 30 required

Preferred Qualifications

  • +10+ years of progressive construction experience
  • +Experience with multiple project delivery methods (CM at-risk, design-build, GC)
  • +Specialty expertise (commercial, healthcare, education, industrial)
  • +Large project experience ($10M-$100M+)

Construction Manager Market Outlook

Construction Leadership Path

Construction Managers advance to Senior Project Manager, Program Manager, Director of Construction, or VP of Operations roles.

Typical Career Progression:

1
Senior Construction Manager
2
Program Manager
3
Director of Construction
4
VP of Construction Operations

Construction Manager Salary Ranges (2025)

$95,000 - $125,000

Entry Level: $75,000 - $95,000

Mid Level: $95,000 - $115,000

Senior Level: $115,000 - $145,000

Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.

Get Full Salary Guide

Check Salary in Your Area

Enter your ZIP code to see localized salary data for this role in your specific market.

Looking to Hire a Construction Manager?

Partner with recruiting specialists who understand your hiring needs and deliver qualified candidates fast.

Book a Strategy CallSubmit a Search Request

Looking for a Construction Manager Role?

Submit your profile and get matched with opportunities that fit your experience.

Submit Your Profile
Loading job outlook data...