Global Construction

What requirements must one meet to become a construction manager and be successful?

Kathrin Ivens
Kathrin Ivens
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Published on 10th Oct 20245 min read

Are you interested in a career in the construction industry and want to know what requirements must be met to become a construction manager and be successful? In this article, you will learn everything about the necessary qualifications, personal characteristics, and skills required for this responsible position.

Construction Manager: A Brief Definition

A construction manager is a person who takes on the planning, coordination, and control of a construction project. They are responsible for the successful implementation of the project and ensure that all work is completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with applicable regulations. You can learn more about the tasks of a construction manager here.

Why Become a Construction Manager?

A career as a construction manager offers many advantages, such as high job satisfaction (according to surveys), good income opportunities, and the chance to work on exciting projects. Find out about the salary of a construction manager in Bavaria here.

Requirements for Construction Managers

Education and Qualifications

To become a construction manager, you typically need a completed apprenticeship in construction or a related field. A degree in architecture, civil engineering, or construction management is particularly helpful. Additionally, further training, as described here, is advantageous.

Studies and Further Training

A university degree is not strictly required, but it can facilitate access to higher positions and better salaries. A list of further training options for construction managers can be found here.

Work Experience

In addition to education, work experience in the construction industry is important to acquire the practical skills and knowledge necessary for the position of construction manager. Typically, several years of work experience in various positions within the construction sector are expected before you can work as a construction manager.

Personal Attributes and Skills

Besides formal qualifications, certain personal attributes and skills are also important for being successful as a construction manager.

Communication Skills

Construction managers must be able to communicate effectively with various individuals and groups, such as construction workers, architects, engineers, clients, and authorities. They should therefore possess strong communication and negotiation skills.

Organization and Planning

The ability to organize and plan projects is essential for construction managers to ensure that all work is completed on time and within budget. This also includes the ability to set priorities and solve problems effectively.

Leadership and Decision-Making

As a construction manager, you are responsible for leading and motivating your team. You must make decisions that affect the success of the project and be able to take responsibility for those decisions.

Succeeding as a Construction Manager

Building a Good Network

A good network of contacts in the construction industry can help you gain new projects and clients, as well as valuable information and resources. This includes contacts with Site-Managers and construction companies that hire construction managers.

Continuous Further Training

To be successful in the construction industry, it is important to stay up to date and continuously further your education. This can be done by attending training courses, seminars, or trade fairs. Here you can find a list of further training for construction managers.

Keeping Up with Current Projects and Trends

A successful construction manager should always be informed about the latest developments and trends in the construction industry to implement innovative solutions and technologies in their projects.

Conclusion

To become a construction manager and be successful, a solid education in construction, work experience, personal attributes and skills, as well as continuous further training and a good network in the industry are required. If you meet all these requirements, nothing stands in the way of a successful career as a construction manager.

FAQ

  1. What are the requirements to become a construction manager?A completed apprenticeship in construction, work experience, personal attributes such as communication skills and organizational talent, as well as further training are necessary to be successful as a construction manager.
  2. Is a degree required to become a construction manager?A degree is not strictly required, but it can facilitate access to higher positions and better salaries.
  3. What further training is recommended for construction managers?There are numerous further training options for construction managers that focus on various aspects of construction management. A list of further training can be found here.
  4. How do I find new projects and clients as a construction manager?A good network of contacts in the construction industry, as well as collaboration with Site-Managers and construction companies that hire construction managers, can help you gain new projects and clients.
  5. What are the most important personal attributes and skills for construction managers?Communication skills, organization and planning, as well as leadership and decision-making are important personal attributes and skills for construction managers.

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