Construction Manager
ConstructionYou'll plan, coordinate, and oversee construction projects from groundbreaking to ribbon-cutting. You're the one making sure the electricians, plumbers, and framers all show up in the right order, the materials arrive on time, and the project stays on budget. Spoiler: it never stays on budget. But that's what change orders are for.
Salary Range
Low
$65k
Median
$104k
High
$170k
10-Year Growth
5%
US Workers
502K
Education
Bachelor's in construction management or equivalent field experience
Environment
mixed
Tools & Technical Skills
- ▸Blueprint & plan reading
- ▸Construction scheduling software (Primavera, MS Project)
- ▸Budget management & cost estimation
- ▸Building codes & permit processes
- ▸OSHA safety regulations & compliance
- ▸Contract negotiation & change order management
- ▸BIM software (Autodesk, Revit)
People & Mindset Skills
- ▸Leadership
- ▸Problem solving
- ▸Communication
- ▸Negotiation
- ▸Decision-making
- ▸Time management
- ▸Conflict resolution
Learn the skills
Courses and certifications to get you job-ready
Budget management & cost estimation
Contract negotiation & change order management
What you'll actually do
- 01Review blueprints and coordinate with architects and engineers
- 02Schedule subcontractors and manage construction timelines
- 03Monitor project budgets and approve change orders
- 04Conduct site inspections and find things the sub swore were 'done'
- 05Obtain permits and ensure building code compliance
- 06Resolve conflicts between trades on the job site
- 07Explain to the client why it costs more than the estimate
Career Path
Where this role sits in the bigger picture — and where it can take you.
Construction Laborer
$30k–$42k
Foreman / Job Superintendent
$55k–$80k
Construction Manager
YOU ARE HERE$80k–$130k
VP of Construction / Owner
$130k–$250k+
Related Shifts
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