According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction management jobs are projected to increase by 16% during the 2006-2016 decade, which is greater than the average for all occupations.
The total number of construction management jobs available is expected to exceed the number of qualified individuals seeking such positions.
Reasons for the projected growth are:
- The ever-increasing complexity of construction projects, some of which involve sophisticated technology
- Regulations and tight building standards regarding worker safety and energy efficient structures
- Environmental protection
- The need to modernize large portions of the nation's infrastructure
- The growing population and number of associated structures
Requirements and Prospects for Construction Management Jobs
Though a degree is not essential for construction management jobs, employers increasingly prefer individuals with a bachelor's degree in construction science, building science, construction management, or civil engineering. Work experience is always an advantage as well.
Entry-level construction manager jobs include working as management trainees or as assistants to construction managers. Those with degrees in construction science may find jobs as field engineers, cost estimators, or schedulers.
A promotion from these ranks could lead to a position as assistant manager, general superintendent, construction manager, construction building inspector, general manager, consultant, or contractor. Individuals with degrees in business administration, finance, accounting, or similar fields can rise to even higher positions. Experience is a factor that is considered regardless of one's educational qualifications.
People with a bachelor's degree or one of the above-mentioned higher degrees will find good prospects in construction management enterprises, construction contracting firms, and architectural or engineering services. Employers also prefer applicants who have completed internships, or have a strong background in building technology.
Construction managers often have opportunities to start their own firms. About 57% of the total number of individuals in construction management jobs are self-employed. The rest are either working in the construction industry or are employed by architectural, engineering, or related service companies, or by the local government.
Salary Potential for Construction Management Jobs
According to the BLS, median annual earnings of wage and salary construction managers in May 2006 were $73,700. Salary for individuals in construction management jobs depends on the size and nature of the construction project, its geographical setting, and the economic status of the country.
An article on CNN/Money called "Most Lucrative College Degrees" lists the average starting salary for construction science gradates as $41,232 per year. Students who intern with construction companies can get $12 per hour along with some moving expenses.
Conclusion
The number of construction management jobs will continue to mushroom as the level of construction activity continues to grow. Population and business growth will result in construction of more homes, office buildings, hospitals, shopping malls, schools, and restaurants, all projects that will require construction managers.
