How to Become a Construction Manager in New Jersey

Construction managers hold a pivotal position in supervising various facets of construction projects.

They’re commonly known as project managers or general contractors.

This role entails extensive coordination with engineers, construction crews, and governmental authorities.

Keep reading to delve deeper into this profession in New Jersey.

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Construction Manager Job Description

So what are the daily tasks and responsibilities of a construction manager?

You will be in charge of creating, planning, managing financial resources, and completing of the construction projects.

Some of your other duties will be:

• Ensuring strict compliance with onsite specifications
• Recruiting skilled personnel for diverse construction tasks
• Ensuring timely delivery of construction materials
• Addressing and resolving any delays, regardless of their source
• Generating comprehensive progress reports for clients
• Managing project costs to remain within budget constraints

These tasks are crucial for a construction project to be completed successfully.

Educational Requirements

To start a career as a construction manager, people have to get an associate degree with relevant hands-on experience or a bachelor’s degree.

Construction managers have the flexibility to specialize in various sectors.

The sectors are:

• Civil
• Industrial
• Commercial
• Residential
• Agricultural
• Institutional projects

This flexibility enables construction managers to focus on areas that align with their interests and expertise, allowing for a more tailored and fulfilling career.

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

Naturally, you need to follow some requirements to work as a construction manager.

These prerequisites are detailed in the following paragraphs.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

To become a construction manager, having a diploma is crucial.

Most construction managers typically need a bachelor’s degree, necessitating a high school diploma or GED beforehand.

Certain project managers might secure positions with an associate degree, contingent upon their relevant work experience.

Individuals completing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program can seamlessly progress into a bachelor’s degree program.

A four-year bachelor’s degree curriculum encompasses a range of crucial subjects, such as:

• Design
• Structural Science
• Engineering
• Materials Management
• Economics
• Alternative Construction Methods

If you can’t get a bachelor’s after getting an associate degree, you can pick the practical experience route instead.

Additionally, individuals with only a high school diploma can start their careers as independent contractors, gradually building the necessary skills and experience to advance.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

Opting for a bachelor’s degree eliminates the necessity for additional certifications.

Yet acquiring them can significantly enhance your career prospects.

Various supplementary certifications exist, presenting avenues for advancement, such as:

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

Construction Management Programs in New Jersey

Now, it’s time to learn more about available construction manager programs in this state.

Bergen Community College

At this college, you can enroll in a Certificate in Construction Management program made of 5 courses.

Students can also opt to enroll in individual courses.

A high school diploma or a GED is mandatory to be accepted into the program.

There is no need for transcripts, SAT, ACT, or other standardized test scores.

Students are chosen through a meticulous process, including resume and application evaluations, personal interviews, and detailed questionnaires.

Once accepted, students participate in a 135-hour training program, which includes consistent check-ins throughout the semester.

Additionally, they benefit from Career Placement Services Assistance, which offers job search support, networking opportunities, and panel events.

The New Jersey Department of Labor generously supports through a grant this program.

New Jersey Institute of Technology

NJIT offers a course called Construction Management Technology that prepares individuals for various roles in the industry.

This program lasts for 4 years and it is the only one of its kind at this institute.

As the duration of the program suggests, this is a bachelor’s of science degree course.

128 total credits are required for graduation.

After graduating, most students will start their own businesses.

Construction Manager Salary in New Jersey

Now that your training is complete, the natural progression is to embark on the job hunt.

If you’re curious about construction manager salaries in New Jersey, they hover around $146,740.

Refer to the accompanying table for further insights.

For a closer look at potential earnings in your locality, keep reading for additional details.

Regional Salary in New Jersey

Construction Manager Schools by State