A construction management degree can help land you a traditional construction management job. However, with an increased need to fill jobs in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction sector, there are other related careers that you may find just as, if not more rewarding. So what can you do with a construction management degree?
Here are some benefits and possible career paths you can take with your degree in construction management
Benefits of having a degree in construction management
Competitive salary
Construction management degree holders have the potential to earn a high income. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average construction manager earns $ 108,210 annually. That’s a pretty great salary and is well above the average income in the United States (which is around $31,000).
Stability
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction management positions are projected to grow 8% from 2021 to 2031, which is above average for all occupations. This is largely due to the increasing demand for new construction and renovation projects, as well as job openings from those retiring in the next decade.
Leadership
The nature of construction management positions puts you in a leadership position. Making decisions and leading a team will be a part of your daily work. If you are a natural leader or enjoy helping others reach their full potential, construction management could be a very rewarding career for you.
Autonomy and flexibility
Because construction managers typically make their own schedules they have a lot of flexibility and control over their hours. Additionally, they can accomplish a lot of their work independently– and don’t have to depend on everyone else’s schedules.
Jobs you can get with a construction management degree
Commercial Construction Manager
Commercial construction managers lead construction projects and renovations of commercial buildings like movie theaters, shopping malls, office buildings etc. These professionals typically handle finances, oversee the actual construction of the buildings, help to render 3D models of the project, and communicate with the client. Typical clients of these types of projects are local governments, large corporations and businesses. It is important to have excellent communication, time management, and leadership skills in this position.
Residential construction manager
Residential construction managers manage the construction of residential homes. They typically work with a construction team, communicate with clients, ensure that everything is to code, oversee safety, and manage the time and budget of the project. These projects are often shorter in duration compared to commercial projects, so if you enjoy quicker projects with greater variety, you may enjoy this position. Additionally, residential projects may give you more input on the aesthetics of the home you are helping to create, so if you are more creative this may be a rewarding career for you.
Industrial Construction manager
Industrial construction managers typically work with large, complicated projects involving petrochemicals (natural gas). These project managers work with designers, engineers, and supervisors to ensure on-site safety, manage budgets, and track data to make sure the project goes smoothly. This line of work is high-risk and complex. It is best to have a lot of experience or education for this role.
Field engineer
Field engineers, or field service engineers plan, oversee, and manage large construction projects. They are typically responsible for testing equipment, handling repairs, and conducting site inspections. These professionals are great communicators and have high technical skills. Most field engineers’ work is done on-site outside of the office, so if the cubicle life isn’t for you, you might want to try out this line of work.
General Contractor
In the construction industry, general contractors are responsible for overseeing a construction project. Usually, they supervise all parts of a construction project from acquiring permits to creating a budget and communicating with the client and construction team. There are many different avenues you can take as a general contractor. For more information on general contractors check out my other article here.
Sustainability consultant
Sustainability consultants work with companies to help them become more environmentally friendly. They advise companies on how to reduce environmental impacts and the use of vital resources, manage environmental compliance, and help to write strategic sustainability plans. These professionals are normally hired temporarily for either short or long-term contracts. It is helpful to specialize in one area of the industry, such as the petrochemical sector. If you enjoy variety in your work and are passionate about sustainability, this could be a good career for you.
Construction Cost Estimator
Believe it or not, construction projects don’t come with a price tag. A construction cost estimator is in charge of determining an estimate of the cost of a construction project. While this might seem simple enough, construction estimators have a lot of factors to account for. For example, the scope of the project, equipment, the construction site itself, labor, and even the weather– and they sometimes have to do all of this while adhering to a strict budget. This job requires a high level of skill and advanced knowledge of data analytics.
Construction Inspector/Overseer
Construction inspectors/overseers are responsible for inspecting construction sites to make sure that they are complying with codes, zoning regulations, and contract agreements. Among other things, construction inspectors test and survey equipment, inspect plumbing and electrical systems, and approve building plans. They can also issue violations and even stop the whole project if they deem it unsafe or unlawful. Like any good inspector, these professionals document their work through reports and photographs.
If you are interested in building, designing and managing construction projects, a construction management degree could be right for you. Not only can you land a traditional construction management job, but you can branch off into many related careers. With most of the positions on this list you will enjoy job security, a competitive salary, leadership opportunities and a flexible schedule.
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