What does a project manager in construction do?

Construction management seems like a stable career choice, but I'm not sure what a project manager's job looks like day-to-day. What are their main responsibilities and what should I study to prepare for this role?

A construction project manager plays a key role in planning, coordinating, budgeting, and overseeing construction projects from start to finish. Their job requires complex problem solving, excellent communication, and leadership skills.

Typically, their responsibilities include:

1. Planning: They develop project plans which outline the necessary resources, timeline, budget, and the sequence of tasks. The plan also includes risk mitigation strategies.

2. Coordinating: They facilitate communication between all stakeholders including architects, engineers, contractors, clients, and local authorities. They keep everyone on the same page.

3. Budgeting: They estimate costs, set budgets, and manage expenses throughout the project.

4. Overseeing: They track the progress of the project, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget. They also monitor compliance with building regulations, safety protocols, and quality standards.

5. Problem-solving: They adapt the project plan when unforeseen issues arise, making decisions to keep the project moving forward.

To prepare for a career in construction project management, consider pursuing a degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field. Key subjects often include project management principles, construction methods, cost estimation, building codes and standards, contract administration, and safety management. Some roles also require certification, such as a Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP).

While studying, it's advantageous to gain real-world experience through internships or part-time jobs in the construction industry. This industry also values practical experience, so hands-on exposure can help establish your credentials and provide a deeper understanding of the business.

Of course, any successful project manager also works on developing their soft skills, such as leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities. These skills will help you manage and coordinate with diverse teams more effectively and make the right decisions in challenging situations.

Remember that this is a field with great responsibility, but also the satisfaction of seeing your projects come to life from the drawing board to the finished structure.