What do the Construction Managers do? Learn About Their Job in 4 Elaborative Points

Construction managers play a pivotal role in the world of construction projects. But what do they do that we need so much in building our cities and societies? This article explores construction managers‘ diverse roles and responsibilities, highlighting their work environment, progress reports, and the critical path method, which are essential to managing multiple projects efficiently.

If you are interested in the construction industry or just want to learn more about what construction managers do, continue reading. We will discover the key factors that make them an integral part of the successful execution of construction projects.

1. What’s Their Job Role?

Construction projects are intricate endeavours that require careful planning, execution, and management to give a successful result. This is the time when construction managers take the center. With the help of their experience and expertise, they ensure that the process of construction projects is smooth and successful. In this part of the article, we will discuss various aspects of a construction manager’s role and highlight their significance in the construction industry.

1.1. What is a Construction Manager?

A construction manager, also called a construction project manager, is a certified professional constructor with expertise in construction management techniques. They oversee construction projects from start to finish and ensure that work efficiency does not fall throughout the process.

Construction managers typically have an associate’s degree combined with extensive experience, which helps them gain the knowledge and leadership skills required for this role. People who want to become a construction manager should know that this position involves much more than just supervising the construction phase.

1.2. Importance Of Construction Managers in the Industry

Construction managers are so important that the industry relies on them to ensure project success. They are linchpins that bring together various parties involved in the project, typically general contractors, subcontractors, and other specialists in the construction process.

A construction manager will provide you with management expertise, ensuring projects stay on established schedules and meet project budgets. Last but not least, meet quality standards. They also play an important role in land acquisitions, permit acquisitions, and contractual agreements, which safeguard the owner’s interest throughout the construction process.

Stay Abreast Through Research and Networking

A crucial duty of a construction manager involves continuously keeping abreast of the latest trends in the industry.

This involves regularly researching and monitoring new technologies, materials, and processes that have the potential to improve project efficiency and productivity.

By staying current with industry trends, construction managers can make informed decisions about which tools and techniques to implement on their projects.

Some ways that construction managers can stay updated with industry trends include attending conferences and trade shows, networking with other professionals in the field, and subscribing to industry publications and newsletters.

These avenues provide valuable opportunities to learn about new technologies, exchange ideas with colleagues, and gain insights from thought leaders in the industry.

In addition to external sources of information, construction managers can also foster a culture of learning within their teams.

Encouraging employees to attend training sessions and workshops, and providing opportunities for hands-on experience with new tools and technologies, can help keep the entire team up-to-date and well-equipped to handle the evolving demands of the construction industry.

Ryan Nelson, Founder, RentalRealEstate

1.3. Key Responsibilities

Construction project managers play many roles and wear many hats throughout a project’s life cycle. They start the process with initial planning, create project control and construction schedules, and provide cost estimates. Experienced managers delegate tasks to construction workers and oversee the work progress, ensuring that quality standards are met and expectations are met.

They also manage aspects of the project, such as electrical work, obtaining permits, and addressing work delays. They also record progress in their progress reports, which typically maintain the field office and facilitate effective communication with other professionals and parties involved in the project.

Innovate with Modular Construction Techniques

In our line of work at Shorten Homes, staying abreast of construction technology is not just a necessity; it’s a passion. Our approach to integrating the latest tools and trends into our modular home construction process has significantly boosted project efficiency and productivity.

A concrete example of this is our exclusive use of Superior Walls® for foundations. These pre-cast, insulated foundation walls are produced in a controlled environment and can be installed on-site in less than a day.

This innovation not only speeds up the construction timeline but also ensures high quality and energy efficiency.

We also harness state-of-the-art indoor factories for constructing our custom modular homes. This controlled environment allows for precision and customization that traditional construction methods can’t match.

It’s here that our sales team, with a combined 60 years of experience, brings to life tailor-made designs in a few months—something previously thought to be complex and time-consuming.

The efficiency of in-factory production, coupled with the quality control processes, ensures that we meet the diverse needs of modern homeowners without compromising on the aesthetics or functionality of our homes.

Our commitment to staying updated with the latest in construction technology goes hand in hand with training and development for our team.

This approach has not only placed us at the forefront of modular home construction but also allowed us to maintain our status as the #1 builder in the Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey area, as per our recent accolades in 2022 and 2023.

By consistently leveraging cutting-edge design and quality building practices, we’ve managed to revolutionize the concept of modular homes, making them a preferred choice for homebuyers seeking energy-efficient, functional, and beautifully designed living spaces.

James Shorten, President, Shorten Homes

2. Construction Managers’ Roles in Different Construction Phases

Construction project phases represent the various stages that construction projects go through from start to end. Construction managers play an important role in every phase of the construction project, including the seamless progression of these phases, which is the most important thing for the success of any construction project. This section explores various construction project phases and the key responsibilities of construction managers within each stage.

2.1. Project Initiating and Planning

Initial planning is the first and crucial phase of the construction project, and construction managers play a significant role in this. They bring to the table their expertise and conduct feasibility studies, land acquisitions, and preliminary cost estimations.

The work defines the project scope and objectives and establishes schedules and budgets for the overall construction project. After hiring a construction manager, owners also get the advantage of not stressing about obtaining permits and negotiating union contracts, as they ensure all the legal and regulatory requirements are met.

2.2. Design and Pre-Construction

Designing is the heart of any successful project. This is the phase when construction managers collaborate closely with architects, engineers, and many other professionals to review technical drawings and blueprints. In this phase, all the professionals come together and offer their expertise, which helps to Design pre-construction perfectly.

They evaluate design changes and offer valuable insights into construction methods and materials. Owners need to know the overall cost of construction projects, and construction managers not only provide that but also identify potential risks and establish quality control programs they implement throughout the project.

2.3. Construction Phase

Now, it is time to start pumping the blood to the heart. If the construction phase goes right, the project will be successful. That is why construction managers are always at the forefront of this phase. They monitor all the construction activities and ensure that the work progresses according to the established plans, schedules, and budgets.

Their leadership skills and ability to delegate tasks are crucial in maintaining order in construction, which makes it essential for owners to hire an experienced construction manager. By doing so, they can monitor progress, address delays promptly, and get regular progress reports.

Create Detailed Project Plans

To effectively manage multiple construction projects, construction managers must begin by creating a detailed project plan for each project. This plan should outline the scope of work, resource allocation, and timelines for completion.

By having a clear roadmap in place, construction managers can ensure that all projects are moving forward according to schedule and budget.

In addition to a detailed project plan, construction managers can also utilize project management software to help streamline communication and track progress.

These tools allow for real-time updates and collaboration between team members, reducing the chances of miscommunication or delays.

Keith Sant, Founder & CEO, Sell My Mobile Home Park

2.4. Quality Control and Safety Assurance

Maintaining high-quality standards and safety on construction sites is essential. Construction managers, with their leadership skills, continuously enforce quality control programs and ensure that construction work aligns with industry regulations and standards.

They implement safety measures to protect construction workers, other professionals, and the public from tragedy. They are essential in preventing accidents and mitigating risks.

2.5. Project Closeout

As construction projects approach the final stage, construction managers review them and add finishing touches and inceptions to ensure work meets established quality standards. They also manage project budgets, which ensures that financial parameters are adhered to.

Construction managers play an important role in handing over the project to the owner while ensuring that all the contractual agreements are fulfilled.

Utilize Project Management Techniques

Construction managers often employ project management techniques to effectively manage multiple projects. This includes creating detailed project plans, defining clear timelines and milestones, and closely monitoring progress through regular meetings and tracking systems.

By having a structured approach to managing projects, construction managers can better allocate resources, identify potential delays or issues early on, and make necessary adjustments to ensure each project stays on schedule and within budget.

The use of technology has become increasingly important in managing multiple construction projects simultaneously. Construction managers can utilize project management software to track progress, monitor budgets, and communicate with team members and stakeholders in real time.

This not only allows for more efficient communication and collaboration but also provides access to data that can inform decision-making and help prevent costly mistakes.

Brian Hemmerle, Founder & CEO, Kentucky Sell Now

3. Construction Technology

Construction managers are at the forefront of employing cutting-edge construction technology to streamline processes and provide excellent outcomes that would be impossible without it.

This section will examine the utilization of technical drawings and technology, construction methods, and building materials. We will also examine the elective construction specialties that are crucial in the construction management field.

3.1. Utilizing Technical Drawings and Technology

Construction managers harness the power of technology in various aspects of construction projects. They use digital technical drawings to communicate design specifications to construction workers and other professionals.

These drawings help them provide precise instructions for the construction process, which ensures that the project aligns with the architect’s and engineer’s vision. They also use project management software to oversee schedules, budgets, and project control, which gives them the power to monitor and control the project effectively.

3.2. Construction Methods and Building Materials

Knowing the latest construction methods and building materials is essential for construction managers. They often stay updated with industry advancements to ensure that the project uses the most efficient and sustainable construction techniques.

This includes being updated with eco-friendly materials available in the market and energy-efficient building solutions. They are responsible for making informed and right decisions about building materials, considering cost, durability, and environmental impact.

3.3. Elective Construction Specialities

Construction management is a field that requires numerous elective construction specialties. These specialties serve specific project-type requirements like commercial office buildings, industrial facilities, or even residential developments.

Specialties may include critical path methods, also known as CPM, electrical work, or specialized construction techniques. Aspiring construction managers choose one or more of these specialties to develop expertise in niche areas of the industry.

4. Becoming A Construction Manager

A construction manager requires a combination of education, experience, and the development of leadership skills. Remember, construction managers have many responsibilities. They are instrumental in overseeing construction projects from start to finish, and their journey to this role involves specific steps.

4.1. Educational Requirements

People who want to become a construction manager should know they must meet certain educational prerequisites. These prerequisites are essential as they teach the essential parts of the role of a construction manager.

4.1.1. Associate’s Degree in Constructing Management

First and fundamental in the journey to becoming a construction manager is acquiring an associate’s degree in construction management or other related field. This degree provides students with the essential knowledge and skills required in the construction industry by covering project management, construction methods, and construction technology. People seeking to learn such skills can search for the best universities in their location and become construction managers.

4.1.2. Certified Construction Manager (CCM) Certification

Although an associate’s degree is an excellent choice, many aspiring construction managers pursue certification as a Certified Construction Manager (CCM). People with this certification commit to excellence in construction management and a deep understanding of the industry. To achieve CCM certification, one must pass a comprehensive exam designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and competence in construction management.

4.2. Gaining Experience

We all know that to grow in any field, we must gain experience. The same goes for the construction management field; it values people who have hands-on experience. However, to gain experience in this field, one has to start through entry-level positions in the construction industry.

Many job seekers in this field start as construction workers or in related roles to build a strong foundation and gain experience in this industry. As they progress and gain a deep understanding, they typically step up to positions requiring more responsibilities.

4.3. Developing Leadership Skills

Becoming a construction manager isn’t just about having the technical knowledge; it goes beyond that. Leadership skills are considered crucial for effectively overseeing construction projects.

To become a successful construction manager, one must be able to manage and delegate tasks, maintain established schedules, and control project budgets. Another must-have skill is to communicate properly, which ensures that all parties involved are informed and engaged in the project’s progress.

Fostering Collaboration in Construction Projects

In my extensive experience leading numerous construction projects, including the creation of private outdoor resorts and high-end custom homes, one effective strategy I’ve utilized to enhance collaboration among diverse teams involves the implementation of integrated project delivery (IPD) models.

This approach aligns the interests, objectives, and practices of all parties, from contractors and subcontractors to designers and clients, through a shared project risk and reward model, a multi-party agreement, and collaborative project management tools.

For example, in one of our complex outdoor kitchen projects, adopting an IPD model enabled seamless communication and decision-making among all stakeholders, resulting in a project that was delivered on time, within budget, and with outstanding quality.

Another crucial component I prioritize is fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding by conducting regular team-building activities and educational workshops.

These initiatives encourage open communication, trust-building, and conflict-resolution skills among team members of various backgrounds and areas of expertise.

By understanding each other’s roles and the challenges they face, team members are more likely to collaborate effectively and come up with innovative solutions to problems.

For instance, during a challenging remodel of a luxury master suite involving intricate millwork and custom cabinetry, facilitating workshops on the importance of each team member’s contribution led to improved teamwork and a beautifully finished project that exceeded client expectations.

Lastly, leveraging advanced technology and tools for project management, like BIM (Building Information Modeling) and cloud-based collaboration platforms, has been indispensable in improving team collaboration and communication.

These technologies enable real-time sharing of project updates, designs, and changes, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. On one occasion, using BIM helped identify a potential design conflict early in the project, allowing for a quick resolution that saved time and costs.

Implementing these technologies not only streamlines project management processes but also fosters a collaborative environment where every team member can contribute to the project’s success efficiently.

Bob Berriz, Creative Director, Berriz Design Build

Take Away

In conclusion, construction managers are paramount in the construction industry. These certified construction managers oversee all aspects of construction projects, from initial planning to completion. Owners gain valuable insights from them, such as cost estimation and the implementation of quality control programs. This helps them ensure that construction projects meet quality standards as per their desires.

Construction managers delegate tasks, schedule deliverables, and negotiate contractual agreements with various parties involved in the project. To become a successful construction manager, one needs a combination of leadership skills and technical expertise in construction methods and construction technology. They sometimes manage multiple projects simultaneously, measuring work progress, addressing work delays, etc.

Their work environment also requires good communication skills to communicate with general contractors, other construction specialists, and various professionals in the field, which makes them indispensable in the construction industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What challenges do construction managers face in their work?

There are numerous challenges construction managers deal with, such as work delays, material shortages, and unforeseen issues in construction projects. However, they can adapt to these challenges and find solutions to keep projects on track.

Q2. How do construction managers interact with other professionals?

Throughout the construction process, construction managers collaborate with general contractors, architects, engineers, and other specialists. They communicate progress, address issues, and ensure that the project aligns with quality standards.

Q3. What qualifications are needed to become a construction manager?

Aspiring construction managers should need to pursue an associate’s degree combined with experience in the construction industry. Other than that, they also need leadership skills and technical knowledge, which are essential.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on April 8, 2024 by Saket Kumar