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How to become a Construction Manager?

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Talent.com talent.com
Answered June 23 2021
Career Expert at Talent.com
Construction Managers also need to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of current building codes, including, but not limited to, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical related codes; and any other law and ordinance regulating building construction or reconstruction. They also need to possess advanced knowledge of construction management processes, means, methods, and quality standards related to these fields. Some Construction Manager positions require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of construction management experience within a related industry. Still, most of them require up to 10 to 15 years of project management experience. Experience in low-rise construction and high-rise construction is an asset.  
  
Aspiring Construction Managers will have to consider their post-secondary options. Many professionals in this field must have completed a bachelor's degree in Construction, Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, or any other related field; or a combination of education and experience that yields the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. In addition, any previous experience related to a technical field is usually preferred, and there will be occasions where proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and any construction management software are also required. Finally, additional certifications will be highly beneficial for this role. To understand which post-secondary certificates are needed, it is always best practice to research the job in question, the company, and all materials and machinery used on the job site to gauge which competencies will be needed and thus where to focus your studies.  
  
Construction Managers must also be in excellent physical condition since they will need to stand and walk for extended periods and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 


Important Things to Know Before Becoming a Construction Manager
The is plenty that Construction Managers will need to do before pursuing their professional career. A degree would be an excellent place to learn the basics and any accompanying skills that separate a good manager from a great one. On top of the professional and technical skills needed for this role, Construction Managers should also work on their soft skills such as leadership and interpersonal strengths to partner with a diverse group of people in potentially adversarial situations. Check out our list of requirements needed to excel in this position:  

  • Post-secondary degree or certificate in Construction, Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, or any other related field.  
  • Leadership and human resources management skills.  
  • Interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication abilities for clear correspondence between owners, stakeholders, subordinate staff, subcontractors, and suppliers.  
  • Analytical skills and strong attention to detail. 
  • Risk assessment abilities to prevent problems on-site and resolve any other emerging issues.  
  • Quality control management.  
  • Organization and time management skills.  
  • A proven ability to work in a dynamic, deadline-driven, and fast-paced environment.  
  • Productive work style and a results-based approach to project completion.  
  • Adequate knowledge of work safety and hazard prevention.  
  • Cost control and client satisfaction expertise.  
  • Physical fitness and bodily strength.  
  • Essential accounting competencies with an understanding of invoicing and billing procedures. 
  • Being able to plan and monitor budgets.  
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