Career

Project Manager

Project & Operations

Runs the business side of a construction project so the people building it can focus on building it.

What is a Project Manager?

A Project Manager (PM) owns a construction project's budget, schedule, and contracts. They're the main point of contact between the owner, the architect, and the people actually building the project, making sure everyone has what they need, on time and on budget.

What they do

Track budget and approve payments to subcontractors
Review and respond to RFIs from the field
Negotiate and process change orders
Coordinate schedules between the owner, architect, and subcontractors
Manage risk and resolve disputes before they become claims

A typical day

7:30 AMReview overnight RFIs and flag anything urgent for the site team
9:00 AMOwner/architect coordination call
11:00 AMWalk the site with the superintendent to check progress against schedule
1:00 PMReview and approve subcontractor pay applications
3:00 PMDraft a change order for scope the owner just added

Skills

BudgetingSchedulingNegotiationContract readingCommunication

Software

ProcoreMicrosoft ProjectBluebeam

Education

Required:: High school diploma or equivalent
Preferred:: Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or related field
Helpful:: PMP or CCM certification
Not necessary:: A four-year degree is common but not the only path; many PMs move up from estimator or superintendent roles

Career progression

1.Project Engineer
2.Assistant Project Manager
3.Project Manager
4.Senior Project Manager
5.Director of Operations

Who hires for this role

General ContractorsConstruction Management FirmsOwners with in-house construction teams

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