How to Become a Construction Manager in New Mexico

Do you want to become a construction manager in New Mexico?

If that is the case, you should first learn more about what this job entails.

These professionals are also called project managers or general contractors.

The completion in time and within the budget, of construction projects, lays in the hands of construction managers.

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Construction managers also work with engineers, construction teams, and government officials.

If you want to learn all the details, all you need to do is read on!

Construction Manager Job Description

As a construction manager, your responsibilities encompass the creation, planning, financial management, and completion of construction projects.

Your specific duties will include:

• Ensuring strict adherence to onsite specifications
• Recruiting skilled personnel for various construction tasks
• Overseeing the timely delivery of construction materials
• Addressing and resolving any delays, no matter their origin
• Producing detailed progress reports for clients
• Managing project costs to stay within budget constraints

These tasks are essential for ensuring the successful completion of a construction project.

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.

CMs have the flexibility to specialize in various sectors within the industry, such as:

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

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

Before you become a construction manager you need to follow some steps.

Luckily, there aren’t many steps to follow, so let’s learn more about them!

1st Step – Complete Your Education

The first thing you need to do is get a high-school diploma or an equivalent like a GED.

Construction managers usually have to get a bachelor’s degree.

Some project managers might get an associate degree.

If you finish an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program you can easily get into a bachelor’s degree program.

A bachelor’s degree will cover topics like:

• Design
• Structural Science
• Engineering
• Materials Management
• Economics

2nd Step – Become Licensed

Getting a bachelor’s degree means you will not need any other certifications, but getting them can impact your career positively.

You can always get some extra certifications, such as:

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

Alternative Methods

If you are unable to work toward a bachelor’s after finishing an associate degree, you can choose to get hired and get experience.

Furthermore, people with a high school diploma can become independent contractors and get experience that way.

Construction Management Programs in New Mexico

So, where can you train in New Mexico?

Santa Fe Community College 

SFCC’s program utilizes the NCCER curriculum to provide industry-driven, standardized craft-training programs, granting credentials recognized nationwide.

Through hands-on learning, you’ll explore all facets of construction, including:

• Project management,
• Safety protocols,
• Building materials,
• Masonry,
• Framing,
• Weatherproofing,
• And more

Additionally, you’ll gain expertise in sustainable (green) building practices, adobe construction, HVAC, and plumbing.

Our Building Science and Construction Technologies Program also offers a Green Building Systems Certificate, equipping you with the skills for entry-level positions in the green building construction industry.

Keene State College

Students will learn to design, manage, and safely execute construction projects from inception to completion.

The curriculum focuses on developing technical, analytical, managerial, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.

Your knowledge will broaden with a range of subjects, including:

• Architecture:
  • Understanding design principles and building aesthetics.
• Business Management:
  • Gaining insights into project management and financial planning.
• Safety:
  • Learning best practices to ensure workplace safety.
• Sustainable Design:
  • Embracing environmentally friendly building practices.
• Communication:
  • Developing effective communication skills for various stakeholders.
• Environmental Science:
  • Understanding how construction affects the environment.
• Math and Physics:
  • Building a strong foundation in the necessary technical disciplines.

The program includes practical learning experiences such as internships and facility tours.

Construction Manager Salary in New Mexico

After you are done with training, you just need to start looking for a job.

Construction managers have good salaries, but it also depends on where you live.

You probably want to know how much you can make in this state.

New Mexico construction managers earn around $123,444 a year.

You can check out the following table for additional details.

Regional Salary in New Mexico

Construction Manager Schools by State