In simple terms a construction manager or supervisor is responsible for running the whole or part of a construction site. Also known as site or building manager, he or she will make sure a scheme is completed safely, on time and within budget.
Construction management typically encompasses multi-unit residential sites or commercial building sites, but not usually single-family residential building sites. Construction management of the site may be maintained by a general contractor or a separate entity who answerrs to the developer and is responsible for overseeing every aspect of the project from beginning to end.
A manager on a modest site might have full responsibility for the whole task. On larger sites, you may be in charge of a certain section and report to a senior site manager.
During a ordinary project, construction management personnel are responsible for overseeing each phase of construction and resolving any discrepancies in original blueprint design and actual implementation. Construction management personnel are likewise accountable for the cost of a project and must monitor material and labour cost. They may work with one or more project managers, architects, and site-specific superintendents, often in both an office and hardhat environment simultaneously. As well as overseeing the physical construction phases of a project, construction management must also be familiar with design and construction laws — including OSHA regulations and building codes — and serve as a point of contact for all issues. Equally important is delivering each phase of a project within a given time frame and budget.
The construction manager will often work with construction management software to organise efficient delivery and storage of construction material whilst making sure safety measures have been put in place.
Finally, the client will need to be kept informed at all stages in the construction process. Lots of work is done outside on site.
Even though many construction workers have never needed qualifications before, the only way they are finding themselves untouched by the current financial crisis, is by having the qualifications to back up their experience.
There are specialist management construction courses available for all staff of specialist companies with any direct responsibility for supervising the carrying out of work on site plus site supervisors, contract supervisors, contract managers, project managers and sales engineers. These courses look at documentation and procedures and other related legal and contractual aspects relevant to the work of specialist construction companies. They also give a comprehensive practical review of sub contract provisions. Courses are available with particular emphasis on record keeping and good contractual “housekeeping”. They also provide extensive briefing on key contractual aspects of supervising or managing work on site.
Construction management firms vary in size, and some provide their services exclusively to smaller general contractors. Large construction companies generally hire their own construction management personnel. The earning potential for construction management varies by region, but can easily reach six figures with experience and reputation for effectively managing larger, multi-million dollar projects. The best way to increase your earning capacity in today’s financially unstable climate is to enrol on a management construction course.