Construction managers play a pivotal role in ensuring building projects run smoothly, managing a diverse range of responsibilities.
Often referred to as project managers or general contractors, they work closely with engineers, construction teams, and government authorities.
If this career path interests you and live in Oregon, read on to find out more.
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Construction Manager Job Description
Construction Managers (CMs) are crucial for the successful management and completion of construction projects.
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Construction managers have responsibilities that will include:
- Adhering to onsite specifications
- Recruiting skilled workers for diverse construction tasks
- Ensuring the timely delivery of materials
- Addressing and resolving any delays
- Producing progress reports for clients
- Managing project costs to stay within budget
Becoming a CM typically requires either an associate degree with relevant experience or a bachelor’s degree.
Even with a bachelor’s degree, gaining practical industry experience is essential.
You can also specialize in different sectors within the construction industry, such as:
- Civil
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Residential
- Agricultural
- Institutional projects
If you specialize in a field that sounds more interesting or challenging, you could be earning more or enjoy your job even more.
Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step
Before you can pursue a career as a development manager, there are a few key steps you need to take.
What do these steps involve?
Let’s break them down.
1st Step – Complete Your Education
To begin your career, you are required to get your high-school confirmation or the comparable GED.
Construction directors more often than not have to get a bachelor’s degree.
Some project supervisors might get an associate degree.
If you wrap up an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program you can effortlessly get into a bachelor’s degree program.
A bachelor’s degree will cover themes like:
- Design
- Structural Science
- Engineering
- Materials Management
- Economics
2nd Step – Become Licensed
While many bachelor’s degree holders might not pursue additional certifications, earning them can highlight your commitment to your career and enhance your professional standing.
Here are some notable certifications to consider:
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
- Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
- LEED Green Associate
- Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
With this knowledge, your next step is to find a construction management program that suits your aspirations.
Construction Management Programs in Oregon
Explore construction management programs available in this state.
Portland Community College
The Construction Management program primarily offers evening classes, with each class meeting once per week.
Most CM classes are scheduled from 6-9 pm, Monday through Thursday, and are held exclusively at the Rock Creek campus.
General Education, Writing, and Computer Applications classes, however, are available at multiple campuses and online.
Due to the program’s size, many CM courses are offered only once per year, so it’s important to plan your schedule with an advisor to ensure timely completion.
Students typically graduate within 2 to 2.5 years.
Most new students start the program in the fall.
However it is possible to complete the degree in two years if you begin in winter or spring, provided you attend summer sessions and take a heavier class load.
We will collaborate with you to create an academic plan that meets your specific needs.
You may choose to spread out your coursework over time, taking one or two classes each term.
Full-time attendance is not required, allowing you more time to balance out your life.
Additionally, you can continue your education at night or online with OIT or SOU, earning a Bachelor’s degree in just two more years.
The curriculum is crafted to deliver in-depth training in commercial construction practices, emphasizing the role of the general contractor.
You will gain knowledge in:
- Bid preparation
- Construction project management
- Estimating construction costs
- Job costing techniques
- Scheduling construction projects
- Structural and mechanical systems used in modern high-performance buildings
- Sustainable construction practices
- Third-party verification methods such as LEED and Earth Advantage
School Name | Address |
---|---|
Portland Community College | 2305 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97216, United States |
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Construction Manager Salary in Oregon
Curious about your potential earnings after graduation?
As a construction manager, your income will typically be less than that of senior executives.
For example, in Oregon, construction managers earn around $136,029 annually.
To explore the earning potential in your region, keep reading for further details.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Lexington | $140,849 |
Elgin | $140,849 |
Union | $140,849 |
Pendleton | $140,715 |
Helix | $140,581 |
Bates | $140,447 |
Portland | $139,510 |
Fairview | $139,376 |
Gresham | $139,242 |
Sherwood | $138,975 |
Regional Salary in Oregon
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Albany, OR | 80 | $95,200 | $45.77 | $138,370 | $67,400 |
Bend-Redmond, OR | 170 | $112,760 | $54.21 | $165,980 | $68,680 |
Corvallis, OR | 60 | $119,670 | $57.53 | $165,340 | $85,180 |
Eugene, OR | 240 | $108,940 | $52.37 | $145,810 | $65,900 |
Grants Pass, OR | 40 | $126,190 | $60.67 | $208,360 | $86,460 |
Medford, OR | 100 | $107,880 | $51.86 | $150,770 | $78,360 |
Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | 2,420 | $136,990 | $65.86 | $234,890 | $83,950 |
Salem, OR | 500 | $101,120 | $48.62 | $152,570 | $47,600 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I have a certain age to be a MC in Oregon?
For the most part no.
You might see some requirements here and there of a minimum age of 18 or 21, but other than this, there’s no age limit.
Does Oregon have good salaries for CMs?
Oregon construction managers receive a salary comparable to those at the national level.
With a decently high demand for such professionals, it will also be easy for you to land a job.
Do I need specific skills to become a construction manager in Oregon?
Yes, because all professions require specific skill sets.
In Oregon, some of the abilities needed by CMs:
- Detail-oriented
- Very good interpersonal skills
- Good at multitasking
- Comfortable with heights
- Team-player
Read the full guide: How to Become a Construction Manager