How to Become a Construction Manager in Louisiana

Construction managers are instrumental in overseeing the multifaceted aspects of construction projects.

Additionally, they may go by titles such as project managers or general contractors.

Their responsibilities involve close collaboration with engineers, construction teams, and governmental bodies.

If you want to work as a construction manager in Louisiana, all you need to do is read on.

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Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is essential to the conceptualization, strategy, financial oversight, and overall project execution.

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring precise adherence to onsite specifications
• Recruiting skilled workers for various construction tasks
• Managing the timely delivery of materials
• Addressing and resolving delays
• Reporting progress and completed tasks to clients
• Maintaining project costs within budget

These duties are crucial for the seamless progression of construction projects.

To qualify for this role, an associate degree with relevant practical experience or a bachelor’s degree is typically required.

Construction managers can specialize in various sectors:

• Civil,
• Industrial,
• Commercial,
• Residential,
• And more

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

You need to take several steps before working as a construction manager.

Let’s have a look at the steps to follow!

1st Step – Complete Your Education

As previously mentioned, becoming a construction manager typically requires a diploma.

Most construction managers hold at least a bachelor’s degree, which necessitates a high school diploma or GED first.

Some project managers are hired with just an associate’s degree, but they also need relevant work experience in the field.

You can pursue a bachelor’s degree if you have graduated from an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program.

The bachelor’s program lasts for four years and includes subjects such as:

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

If you don’t want to get a four-year degree after getting your associate’s degree, you can get more experience by working.

If you only have a high school diploma, you can choose to work as an independent contractor.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

If you already have a bachelor’s diploma, you don’t need to get any extra certifications.

However, you can always get more credentials as this will increase your career opportunities.

Below you can see some of the certifications you can get:

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

Construction Manager Programs in Louisiana

Now, let’s see what construction manager programs are available in Louisiana.

University of Louisiana Monroe

While laborers and engineers often come to mind when discussing construction, managers play an equally vital role.

Consider this program if you like to plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.

The construction management program at ULM equips students with the skills needed for the job and it also facilitates connections with post-graduation opportunities.

However, this program isn’t for the faint of heart.

Rigorous coursework covering construction graphics, cost estimation, surveying, soil testing, mechanical systems, and more ensures that ULM graduates emerge as top-tier professionals.

Louisiana State University 

Do you want to earn a B.S.C.M. or Bachelor of Science in Construction Management?

This university could be your choice!

To graduate, students must accumulate 24 credit hours in subjects with codes over 1,000.

One such subject is Math 1550, AKA Business Calculus, in which you’ll need a grade above C.

Furthermore, your GPA must be at least 2.0.

The duration of the program is 4 years.

LSU Online

Before anything else, LSU has online programs as well.

One is the Bachelor of Science in Construction Management offered 100% online.

For this program, students must earn between 123 and 125 total credit hours.

For the credit to be earned, students must pass the exams associated with the course.

Candidates should keep in mind that the price for a credit hour is $399.

One advantage is the possibility of earning more certifications at once.

Construction Manager Salary in Louisiana

Upon completing your education and training, you’ll likely be curious about your potential salary.

You can anticipate a median annual salary of $127,040.

However, several factors will influence your earnings, including your level of experience and location.

Generally, construction managers in urban areas tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in rural regions.

For a clearer understanding of construction manager salaries in Louisiana, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in Louisiana

Construction Manager Schools by State