How to Become a Construction Manager in Arizona

Construction managers are responsible for overseeing the majority of aspects of building projects.

They may also hold titles such as project managers or general contractors.

Their role involves collaboration with engineers, construction workers, and government officials.

If you’re intrigued by such a position, read this presentation!

Popular Programs

Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is the one behind the concept, strategy, managing finances, and the execution of the project, but not only.

Here’s a breakdown of your future responsibilities:

• Ensuring precise adherence to specifications onsite
• Recruiting skilled personnel for building components
• Securing timely delivery of construction materials
• Addressing delays, regardless of their source
• Generating client reports on completed tasks
• Managing project costs within budget constraints

In this way, the progress of the construction will go smoothly.

To be hired, you may need an associate degree and pertinent practical background or at least a bachelor’s degree.

Project managers enjoy the flexibility to specialize in various domains within construction projects.

These specialties include civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional endeavors.

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

Becoming a construction manager entails several steps.

Let’s outline them!

1st Step – Complete Your Education

As mentioned earlier, one can’t become a construction manager without a diploma.

The minimum diploma most CMs have is a bachelor’s.

It goes without saying that such a diploma requires first a high school diploma or a GED at minimum.

Some project managers get hired only with an associate’s degree.

However, they need some relevant work experience in the field as well.

If you graduated from an AAS program, then you can move on to study for a bachelor’s.

During the 4 years of this program, you’ll become more familiar with such topics:

• Design,
• Structural science,
• Engineering,
• Materials management
• Economics

Alternatives

If you’re not keen on pursuing a four-year degree after your associate’s, you can opt to gain sufficient relevant work experience.

Another route exists for those with only a high school diploma – becoming an independent contractor.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

Not everyone who earns a bachelor’s diploma will seek further certifications.

This shouldn’t hold you back because with more credentials you’ll show dedication to your career.

Here are a few of the extra certifications you can earn:

• Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
• Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
• LEED Green Associate
• Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

Construction Manager Programs in Arizona

Let’s look at what programs Arizona has to offer for future CMs.

Maricopa Community Colleges

If you want an AAS in Construction Management then this community college should be one of your choices.

The program has topics such as:

• Industry-specific technical subjects
• Construction planning
• Design,
• OSHA 30 safety
• Construction ethics
• Estimating,
• Contracts

Upon graduation, students will also be able to earn the LEED certification.

At the same time, students can also enroll in a bachelor’s degree or choose to earn the AGEC-A and Associate in Arts Degrees.

The total credits needed for graduation are between 60 and 85.

It’s mandatory to maintain a grade of C in all subjects of study.

Arizona State University Online

Earning a Master of Science in construction management and technology is a good step for those who want to advance in their careers.

This program offered by ASU has 10 classes and 30 credits to earn.

Additionally, the course is offered online, to accommodate those who can’t commute to in-person classes.

It has 2 areas on which you can focus, thus you can choose between:

• Construction management and technology
• Facility management

There are 2 core areas from which you have to choose:

• Project management
• Controls and construction technology

From these core areas, you’ll need to opt for a 3-credit-hour course and the rest of the classes will be electives.

To complete your education, you must opt for an applied project or a thesis that represents your research interests.

You can attend full-time or part-time, and your tuition will depend on this aspect.

Most students receive financial aid, but you still have to use the school’s online calculator to find out how much you have to pay.

Construction Manager Salary in Arizona

Now delving into potential earnings, as a manager, your salary exceeds that of your team but doesn’t quite reach your superior’s.

For example, in Arizona, construction managers earn approximately $130,112 annually.

However, specific locations offer higher compensation, as depicted in the table below.

Regional Salary in Arizona

Construction Manager Schools by State