Construction Site Manager
Careers Explorer:
Responsible for the overall running of a construction project.
Overview
Constructions sites are busy places and it’s your job to ensure the smooth operation of the building project from start to finish.
You’re in charge of the practical side of managing and planning every stage of the building process. From complying with health and safety measures and recruiting staff to inspecting the workmanship and liaising with contractors, the workload of the site manager is vast and varied.
You’re directly responsible for the work being carried out on-site and key decision-making falls to you.
One day you could be in the office dealing with contracts and staffing issues, the next you’ll be on-site carrying out inspections or checking materials.
It’s a well-paid job, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Many Construction Site Managers have worked in the industry for 10 years or more before they advance to a management role.
Top 5 Tasks
- Carry out on-site inspections and ensure everyone is following health and safety rules
- Set and agree budgets for the work
- Set benchmarks of work to be done
- Be directly responsible for the work being carried out and the decision making
- Manage and recruit staff for the project.
Salary
Newly trained Construction Site Managers can earn around £25,000 – £35,000, with those trained and experienced earning up to £48,000.
Senior, Chartered or Master Construction Site Managers can earn up to £60,000. Salaries typically depend on location, employer and level of responsibility.
Am I Suited?
- Leader
- Highly organised
- Team player
- Excellent communicator
- Good with numbers and English
Many Construction Managers and other construction professionals started their careers as apprentices.
Qualifications
You’ll usually need a degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or a Higher National Diploma (HND), in a relevant subject. This could be in construction, civil engineering, construction management, architecture or building surveying. It’s a good idea to check your qualification is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building.
Entry requirements vary according to the level of course, but are normally 1-3 Highers for an HNC or HND and 4-5 Highers for a degree.
