Construction managers are essential for the efficient oversight of building projects, handling a wide array of responsibilities.
Also known as project managers or general contractors, they collaborate with engineers, construction crews, and government officials.
If you think this career might be a good fit for you, continue reading to learn more.
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Construction Manager Job Description
Construction Managers (CMs) are essential in overseeing and executing construction projects efficiently.
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As a construction manager, your daily tasks will include:
- Adhering strictly to onsite specifications
- Recruiting skilled workers for various construction tasks
- Ensuring the timely delivery of construction materials
- Addressing and resolving any delays
- Producing progress reports for clients
- Managing project costs to stay within budget
To become a CM, you typically need either an associate degree with relevant experience or a bachelor’s degree.
Practical industry experience remains crucial, even with a bachelor’s degree.
You can also choose to specialize in various sectors within the construction industry, such as:
- Civil
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Residential
- Agricultural
- Institutional projects
Specializing allows you to focus on areas that match your interests and expertise.
Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step
Before you can look for a job as a development manager you have to take some steps.
So what are these steps all about?
Let’s outline them!
1st Step – Complete Your Education
To end up as a development director, having a confirmation is crucial.
Most development directors ordinarily require a bachelor’s degree, requiring a tall school recognition or GED beforehand.
Certain construction directors might secure positions with a related degree, unexpected upon their significant work experience.
Individuals completing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program can consistently advance into a bachelor’s degree program.
A four-year bachelor’s degree educational modules includes an extend of significant subjects, such as:
- Design
- Structural Science
- Engineering
- Materials Management
- Economics
2nd Step – Become Licensed
Although many individuals with bachelor’s degrees may not seek further certifications, obtaining them can demonstrate your dedication to your career and bolster your professional credentials.
Consider these valuable certifications:
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
- Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
- LEED Green Associate
- Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Alternative Steps
Not everyone can finish their education, especially if it’s at a higher level
This shouldn’t be a problem, because you can still work in this field if you’re diligent enough to accumulate enough experience.
Construction Management Programs in Oklahoma
Armed with this information, your next move is to identify a construction management program that aligns with your goals.
Discover construction management programs available in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
If you want to earn an AAS in construction technology and construction management, this is the university where you can enroll.
The program is offered on 2 campuses, in Okmulgee and Tulsa, and lasts 2 years.
Students have a well-rounded approach to earning the AAS:
- Through a hands-on approach to learning
- Attending career-oriented classes
If you want another reason to enroll in this program, then know that the tuition per trimester is $6,702, and you can barely find a lower in this state.
The program also contains 2 parts of internship where you can earn some money.
The University of Oklahoma
The classes you’re interested in are housed in the College of Architecture.
Here, you’ll learn every skill useful to a good construction manager.
How do I know this is a good career for me?
That’s easy, as your interests will gravitate around:
- Design
- Planning
- Organization
- Management
- Decision making
The American Council for Construction Education has given accreditation to the Division of Construction Science.
If you attend this program, you’ll obtain a BS diploma, and then you can pursue a master’s degree.
One important aspect that other programs don’t have, is the possibility of traveling abroad.
Here are the destinations where you can further your skills or knowledge:
- Service Learning in Zambia
- Architecture and Design in the Eternal City In Rome
- Health Culture Design in Germany
- Design-Build in Dubai
School Name | Address |
---|---|
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | 1801 E 4th Street Okmulgee, OK 74447 |
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | 700 N Greenwood Ave, Tulsa, OK 74106 |
The University of Oklahoma | 550 Parrington Oval Norman, OK 73019 |
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Construction Manager Salary in Oklahoma
Wondering what you could earn after completing your education?
As a construction manager, you can expect to earn more than your peers in various roles within the industry.
However, your salary will generally be lower compared to higher-level executives.
For instance, in Oklahoma, construction managers usually make approximately $123,845 per year.
To find out the earning potential in your area, continue reading for more information.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Hendrix | $131,075 |
Albany | $131,075 |
Bennington | $131,075 |
Tulsa | $126,657 |
Oakhurst | $126,657 |
Jenks | $126,523 |
Owasso | $126,389 |
Broken Arrow | $126,255 |
Bixby | $126,121 |
Leonard | $125,854 |
Regional Salary in Oklahoma
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Oklahoma City, OK | 790 | $102,890 | $49.47 | $164,220 | $52,450 |
Tulsa, OK | 660 | $104,190 | $50.09 | $153,430 | $63,960 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best skills to have as a construction manager in Oklahoma?
Having these skills makes you a better CM:
- Comfortable with heights
- excellent interpersonal skills
- Comfortable to work in a team
- Able to stand for periods
- Very good with CAD
What are some career options for a CM in Oklahoma?
Those who train as CMs in this state have many job options to choose from:
- General Contracting
- Specialty Construction
- Land Development Manager
- Project Manager
- Heavy Construction
- Electrical and Mechanical
- Job Superintendent
- State Highway Department Supervisor
Do any of the schools listed have students' associations, if I want to get involved more?
Yes, they do, and this is a small selection:
- American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
- Freedom By Design
- National Organization of Minority Architecture Students
- Society of Urban Design Students
Read the full guide: How to Become a Construction Manager