Construction managers play a critical role in ensuring the efficient completion of building projects, overseeing a diverse range of essential tasks.
Referred to as project managers or general contractors, they work closely with engineers, construction teams, and government officials.
If you’re interested in this career path, keep reading to discover more.
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Construction Manager Job Description
Construction Managers (CMs) play a vital role in the effective oversight and successful completion of construction projects.
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As a construction manager, your responsibilities will include:
- Adhering to onsite specifications
- Recruiting skilled workers for various 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.
Practical experience in the industry is essential, even if you hold a bachelor’s degree.
You can also specialize in different sectors within the construction industry, such as:
- Civil
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Residential
- Agricultural
- Institutional projects
Specializing allows you to concentrate on areas that align with your interests and expertise.
Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step
If you want to work as a development manager you need to take some steps first.
So what do you need to do?
Read more below about these steps.
1st Step – Complete Your Education
To start, you need to obtain a high school diploma or an equivalent such as a GED.
Construction managers typically pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Some project managers might opt for an associate degree.
Completing an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program can seamlessly lead to a bachelor’s degree program.
A bachelor’s degree encompasses subjects such as:
- Design
- Structural Science
- Engineering
- Materials Management
- Economics
2nd Step – Become Licensed
While many individuals with bachelor’s degrees may not pursue additional certifications, earning them can showcase your dedication to your career and enhance your professional standing.
Consider these esteemed certifications:
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
- Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
- LEED Green Associate
- Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
With this knowledge in hand, your next step is to find a construction management program that aligns with your career aspirations.
Alternative Steps
If pursuing a bachelor’s degree isn’t feasible after earning an associate degree, gaining work experience is a viable alternative.
Additionally, individuals with a high school diploma can become independent contractors to gain practical experience.
Construction Management Programs in Rhode Island
Explore construction management programs available in Rhode Island.
Roger Williams University
Roger Williams University provides two distinct programs in Construction Management.
The programs are a Major and a Minor.
In the Major program, students have access to a well-rounded education that will prepare them for a successful career.
This program has a duration of 4 years and awards a BS.
To graduate, you’ll need 130 credits and to perform 40 hours of service.
New England Institute of Technology
At this institute, you have the possibility of earning a BS in Construction Management.
If you earned an associate’s degree in Architectural/Building Engineering Technology or Building Construction and Design Technology, you can easily transfer your credits over to a BS.
Other educational fields will also be accepted if other admission requirements are also met.
The last course of the program is a Senior Thesis through which graduation candidates will have to prove what they learned so far.
If you want to go further with your studies, you can also choose to enroll in the master’s degree offered both online and on campus.
The master’s degree will take as little as 18 months to complete.
If you prefer the online version, you can learn anytime, anywhere, and for as long as you can.
School Name | Address |
---|---|
Roger Williams University | 1 Old Ferry Rd, Bristol, RI 02809 |
Roger Williams University | 1 Empire Street, Providence RI 02903 |
New England Institute of Technology | 1 New England Tech Boulevard East Greenwich, RI | 02818 |
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Construction Manager Salary in Rhode Island
Wondering about your earning potential after graduation?
As a construction manager, you can expect to earn a higher salary compared to many other roles in the industry.
However, your income will generally be lower than that of senior executives.
In Rhode Island, construction managers typically earn approximately $139,778 per year.
For more information on earning potential in your area, continue reading.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Rockville | $142,857 |
Ashaway | $142,723 |
Wyoming | $142,590 |
Westerly | $142,456 |
Block Island | $141,786 |
Charlestown | $141,652 |
Carolina | $141,518 |
Jamestown | $141,385 |
Kingston | $141,251 |
Portsmouth | $140,849 |
Regional Salary in Rhode Island
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | 530 | $121,980 | $58.64 | $191,340 | $82,660 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there some better skills than others for construction managers in Rhode Island?
Some of the skills that will help you stand out, include:
- Leadership skills
- Good communication skills
- Able to work in a team
- Ability to take action when needed
- Math knowledge
Is a degree in CM worth the effort in Rhode Island?
Considering that it takes 4 years to complete the Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and that your salary will be a 6-figure number per year, then, yes, a degree in this industry is well worth the effort.
Where can I find employment as a CM in Rhode Island?
Some of the top companies that need construction personnel in Rhode Island, include:
- Gilbane Building Company
- Hensel Phelps Construction
- Pariseault Builders
- Shawmut Design and Construction
- Whiting-Turner Contracting
Read the full guide: How to Become a Construction Manager