The job of a construction project manager is to ensure that all aspects of the job in the construction are done effectively and on time. They are knowledgeable in almost all aspect of the job being done on the site and about the current project. The construction project manager careers are very critical in the smooth operation of the construction from day one to its completion. They are the ones coordinating the job to be done by the different subcontractors hired to do specific job such as pouring of slabs, doing the carpentry, roofing and so on. Their job is very challenging considering that delays are inevitable in situations like construction of large buildings and edifices. They have to ensure that all the works to be done are finished on schedule to avoid sore tempers and cost of delays. Construction project manager jobs include the reading of blueprints since it is their duty to set jobs to be done according to plan and avoid any changes or alterations from the original plan. In cases where it is unavoidable, changes come from the builders or architects, and then project managers must present these changes to the subcontractors for proper execution. In general, the job of a construction project manager are physically less strenuous than the individual craftsmen but they need to attend meetings with executives, architects, and other contractors to continually assess the progress made on the construction site.
To start your quest towards successful at construction project manager employment the first thing to do is to go back to school. Despite that fact that you have years of experience in the construction site, most companies now are seeking managers that have a bachelor’s degree, preferably major in civil engineering, management, and construction science. Having a college degree is an advantage especially now that machines used for construction have become highly technical and advanced. With the advent of computers and creation of highly sophisticated software that aid engineers in making blue prints and plans for a proposed construction project, a college degree will be of great help in easing things out as well as knowledge of basic and advanced computer programs and systems. Taking refresher courses or undergoing internships from an existing project manager will keep you abreast on the latest software and understanding your software (such as the Bid4Build and WinEstimator) that you currently use will facilitate in making your work easy. Another way to land the construction project manager jobs that you have been eyeing for is to gain formal training and experience on the job site. Skills learned from the on the job training will come in handy from dealing with material contractors and understanding plans. Acquiring a certification from valid and well-respected organizations such as the American Institute of Contractors and the Construction Management Association of America will prove a project manager’s competency and experience in construction.
Learning to make fast decisions is one key attribute that you must possess to be successful in this career. You should be able to do multiple tasks, settle disputes among project heads, and be decisive if needed in order to finish the project on time. Being physically fit will reduce the probability of fatigue and accidents when conducting site inspection and visits. Since construction project managers are the main people responsible for all the activities on the construction site then skills in coordinating the design process and the delivery of building materials as well as good communication skills in settling subcontractor’s dispute and getting across instructions to laborers on the site are essential skills that should be cultivated and honed in order to be successful in this job.
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