Construction managers are responsible for plannning, managing and coordinating a construction project. Normally involved from the project’s initial conception, a construction manager has the task of ensuring that all project work is carried out according to the client’s specifications
This type of job usually necessitates working on more than one project at a time. Typical employers are building, construction and engineering firms, as well as local authorities. Duties include attending meetings, providing guidance, making sure certain quality standards are met, monitoring progress, making health and safety checks, and keeping financial records to do with expenditure, costing and billing
Successful candidates for management positions are usually those who have gained a satsifactory level of relevant experience at lower positions, such as that of assistant site manager or assistant quantity surveyor. Starting salaries are highest in London and York, with earnings of £33,500 and £32,500, respectively. Oxford offers graduates the lowest deal at £25,000, while Aberdeen provides the greatest earning potential, where salaries are in the £29,000 to £75,500 range.

• Managing projects
• People management
• Leadership
• Being assertive and respectful
• Knowledge of industry regulations
• Project management
• Planning and prioritising
• Organisation and administration
• Being computer literate
• Being professional
• Resolving problems
• Conflict management

Pursuing qualification in areas such as Building Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Building Studies, Surveying or Civil Engineering is helpful in getting a Construction Manager position. Persons starting out in construction often have a High School Diploma, BTEC, HND or HNC certification. They work their way up in specialised areas, often gaining employment as apprentices.
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) have programmes in Construction and building. Interested persons can also start with NVQ Level 3 to 5 qualifications in Site Supervision, Contracting Operations, Site Management, and Senior Management.