How to Become a Construction Manager in Massachusetts

Construction managers are essential in overseeing the intricate aspects of construction projects.

Also known as project managers or general contractors, their responsibilities involve close collaboration with engineers, construction teams, and government bodies.

If you’re considering a career as a construction manager in Massachusetts, continue reading.

You’ll discover valuable insights on launching a successful career in this dynamic field.

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Massachusetts Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is integral to the conceptualization, strategic planning, financial oversight, and overall execution of construction projects.

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 any delays
• Providing clients with progress updates and reports on completed tasks
• Maintaining project costs within budget

These duties are essential 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 a range of sectors, including civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional projects.

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

You need to meet some requirements so that you can get your first job as a construction manager.

In the section below we will show you what the criteria is.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

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 degree, but they must also have relevant field experience.

If you’ve completed an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program, you can further your education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

The bachelor’s program typically spans four years and includes subjects such as:

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

If you decide not to pursue a four-year degree after earning your associate degree, you can still gain valuable experience by working in the field.

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

2nd Step – Become Licensed

While a bachelor’s degree equips you with essential qualifications, obtaining additional certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects.

Consider the following certifications:

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

Construction Manager Programs in Massachusetts

Now, let’s explore the construction manager programs offered in Massachusetts.

Springfield Technical Community College

Students who want to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management can enroll in the Building Construction Management Program specially designed by this college.

This is a MassTransfer degree program, students can transfer all their credits seamlessly and, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, qualify for a MassTransfer Tuition Credit at the University of Massachusetts.

The curriculum for the Building Construction Management Option is available in both day and evening formats, offering flexibility to accommodate the schedules of working students.

This is particularly beneficial for current employees looking to advance their careers while maintaining their jobs.

You will gain a strong foundation in:

• Architectural Design,
• Building Codes & Principles,
• Construction Estimating,
• Computer-Aided Design,
• Sustainable Building Practices

The coursework at STCC will enable smooth transfers to Bachelor’s Degree Programs at Wentworth Institute and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

After the program ends, you will receive an Associate of Science in Architecture and Building Technology.

Merrimack College

If you’re a student at this college, you will enroll in the Major in Construction Management.

You also have the option to enroll in the Civil Engineering program.

These fields are both similar and different.

The similarity is that both are in the construction field, while the difference lies in the subjects you’ll study.

These are some of the costs you should expect for this program:

• Books – $1,000
• Tuition – $47,636
• Transportation – $1,200
• Personal Expenses – 1,000
• Loan Origination Fee – $70

The final tuition depends on whether or not you live with your parents or on campus.

Construction Manager Salary in Massachusetts

After completing your education and training, it’s only natural to be curious about your potential earnings.

The median annual salary is around $145,341, but your actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience and location.

Generally, construction managers in urban areas tend to earn more than those in rural regions.

For a comprehensive breakdown of construction manager salaries in Massachusetts, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in Massachusetts

Construction Manager Schools by State