Construction managers are vital to managing the intricate details of construction projects.
Also known as project managers or general contractors, they collaborate with engineers, construction crews, and government agencies to ensure projects are completed successfully.
If you’re considering a career as a construction manager in Missouri, this guide offers valuable insights to help you embark on a successful path in this field.
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Construction Manager Job Description
A construction manager (CM) is pivotal in the planning, financial oversight, and execution of construction projects.
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Their primary responsibilities include:
- Ensuring projects adhere strictly to onsite specifications
- Recruiting skilled workers for various construction tasks
- Overseeing the timely delivery of materials
- Addressing and resolving any delays
- Providing clients with regular progress updates and reports
- Keeping project costs within budget
These duties are fundamental to the successful completion of construction projects.
Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step
You will need to fulfill some requirements to work as a construction manager.
Have a look at the steps you need to finish.
1st Step – Complete Your Education
To pursue a career as a construction manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree with relevant hands-on experience.
Construction managers can specialize in various sectors, such as civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, and institutional projects.
Here’s how you can follow this path:
- High School Diploma or GED:
- The first step is obtaining a high school diploma or GED, which qualifies you to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program.
- Associate Degree:
- If you already have an associate degree, you’ll need to gain additional hands-on experience to be eligible for more advanced positions.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree:
- Transitioning from an AAS degree to a bachelor’s program is relatively straightforward and provides a robust foundation for further education.
The Bachelor’s Degree Program
A bachelor’s degree program generally spans four years and covers subjects such as:
- Design
- Structural Science
- Engineering
- Materials Management
- Economics
- Alternative Construction Methods
If a bachelor’s degree isn’t the best option, gaining practical experience by entering the workforce directly is another viable pathway.
Individuals with only a high school diploma can start as independent contractors, progressively building their skills and expertise in the construction field.
2nd Step – Become Licensed
A bachelor’s degree is enough to become a construction manager.
But, remember that getting extra certifications will give you an advantage and provide better career opportunities.
Consider pursuing the following certifications to bolster your qualifications:
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
- Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
- LEED Green Associate
- Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Training as a Construction Manager in Missouri
Missouri offers several construction management programs for those aiming to further their education and credentials to help you advance in this field.
Park University
Park University’s construction management degree program is tailored to help you meet your educational and professional aspirations.
Whether you have a passion for building and design or aim to pursue a career in business or construction management, this program is an ideal choice
Its Bachelor of Science and Associate of Science in Construction Management degree programs offer flexibility to suit your needs.
You can attend face-to-face classes at one of over 25 campus centers nationwide or complete your degree online.
For detailed information on required credit hours and a comprehensive list of degree requirements and coursework, please refer to your catalog.
University of Central Missouri
At this university, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management.
This BS received accreditation from ABET.
Some of the study subjects for this degree are:
- Project Cost Estimating
- Engineering Geology
- Commercial Architectural Design/Drafting
These are not all the topics, because I wanted to tell you about how will you study:
- Skills- and experience-based labs
- Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Competition
- Internships
- Student Organization of Construction Managers (SOCM)
Once you’re done studying, you could qualify for additional scholarships which will help you in your career.
School Name | Address |
---|---|
Park University | 8700 NW River Park Drive Parkville, MO 64152 |
University of Central Missouri | P.O. Box 800 Warrensburg, MO 64093 |
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Construction Manager Salary in Missouri
After completing your training, it’s natural to wonder about your potential earnings.
The median annual salary for this position is approximately $127,594, but actual figures can vary depending on factors such as experience and job location
Typically, construction managers in urban areas earn more than those in rural regions.
For a comprehensive breakdown of construction manager salaries across Missouri, please refer to the table below.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Kansas City | $131,075 |
Riverside | $131,075 |
Saint Louis | $131,075 |
Independence | $130,941 |
Florissant | $130,808 |
Bridgeton | $130,674 |
Missouri City | $130,540 |
Smithville | $130,406 |
Saint Charles | $130,272 |
Mosby | $130,138 |
Regional Salary in Missouri
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cape Girardeau, MO-IL | 40 | $105,200 | $50.58 | $131,850 | $72,570 |
Columbia, MO | 90 | $104,190 | $50.09 | $140,130 | $67,510 |
Jefferson City, MO | 90 | $93,400 | $44.91 | $137,430 | $44,830 |
Joplin, MO | 70 | $101,710 | $48.9 | $129,220 | $73,140 |
Kansas City, MO-KS | 1,880 | $117,970 | $56.72 | $173,720 | $71,500 |
St. Joseph, MO-KS | 70 | $111,580 | $53.64 | $146,930 | $75,830 |
St. Louis, MO-IL | 2,150 | $114,670 | $55.13 | $162,860 | $70,850 |
Springfield, MO | 180 | $107,560 | $51.71 | $138,690 | $64,150 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills do I need to become a general contractor in Missouri?
It’s not easy to become a construction manager in any state, considering the requirements.
Among them, there are also a list of skills that may help:
- Leadership skills
- Good communication skills
- Not being afraid of heights
- Teamwork abilities
- Ability to take decisive action
- Math knowledge
The actual list is longer than this and can differ from project to project.
Which scholarships could I qualify in Missouri after a BS as a CM?
I won’t mention them all, but here are a few of them:
- The Ellis Foundation
- Midwest Roofing Contractors Association
- National Association of Women in Construction
- The Builders’ Association – Kansas City
- The Mid-West Concrete Industry Board, Inc. (The MCIB Educational Fund)
- AACE International Competitive Scholarships
- AGC Foundation Undergraduate and Graduate Scholarships
Do I have other job opportunities in Missouri with my education, if need be?
Here are some of the many job opportunities you can also consider:
- Project Coordinator
- Project Estimator
- Project Planner
- Facilities Management
- Field Coordinator
- Risk Management Advisor
- Safety Coordinator
- Superintendent
- Trade Contractor
- General Contractor
- Materials Manager
Read the full guide: How to Become a Construction Manager