This post presents complete information on the job description of a construction manager, to help you learn the work they do, as well as templates employers can use.
It highlights the key tasks, duties, and responsibilities that commonly make up the construction manager work description.
It also presents the major requirements individuals are usually expected to meet to be hired for the construction manager role by most employers/recruiters.
What Does a Construction Manager Do?
A construction manager is responsible for overseeing, directing, and managing the development of construction projects from its start to completion.
His/her job description entails overseeing key tasks that range from planning to budgeting and making crucial decisions, and ensuring that construction projects fall within the proposed budget and the given deadline.
It also involves planning of construction projects and overseeing their progress along the way in a very timely, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
The construction manager is also responsible for overseeing tasks such as budgeting, organization, implementation, and the scheduling of construction projects.
He/she may have an office to work in, though he/she is frequently required to work on construction sites.
One of the core duties that are performed by construction managers is to make schedules for construction projects by supervising production from the conception phase to the construction phase, while also monitoring deadlines to ensure that construction projects are completed within the proposed timeframe.
He/she is also saddled with the responsibility of determining costs, which requires him/her to assess a construction project’s costs and prepare a budget that outlines both soft and hard costs.
He/she is also required and expected to come up with effective ways to minimize budget which may involve finding and using alternative building materials, and/or other relevant ways.
A construction manager must also monitor and control safety by supporting and supervising staff in the day-to-day management and giving directions as necessary and when required.
It is also highly important that a construction manager attends construction meetings alongside staff, supervisors, and other parties that are involved in the construction project and contributing to these meetings by discussing budgets, plans, and goals.
He/she may also be required to create agendas for meetings and gather documents such as schedules and logs.
If you are seeking to work as a construction manager, some of the required skills and qualities employers/recruiters may want you to fulfill include adequate and technical understanding of construction, excellent oral and written communication skills, and good decision-making skills; good financial management skills, profound budgeting experience, and good problem-solving skills; attention to detail, excellent leadership skills, and good time and project management skills.
In terms of academic qualifications, the ideal candidate for the construction manager role is usually required to possess a Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, or Engineering, or in a similar discipline.
To enhance their careers, construction managers can belong to certain professional organizations, including the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and the American Institute of Constructors (AIC).
These professional associations provide opportunity for skills development, networking, and exposures to current best practices in the construction industry.
Construction Manager Job Description Example/Sample/Template
Construction managers perform the following responsibilities:
- Developing detailed construction plans, schedules, and work timelines
- Monitoring and directing construction projects from conception to completion
- Overseeing all onsite and offsite constructions to monitor and ensure strict compliance with building and safety regulations
- Liaising and working cooperatively with construction workers, engineers, architects, contractors, and subcontractors
- Examining and reviewing construction work progress daily
- Negotiating contracts and terms of agreements, drafting contracts, and obtaining permits and licenses
- Examining, assessing, managing, and mitigating risks
- Ensuring that construction standards are of high quality and proper construction techniques are utilized
- Enforcing safety policies and procedures on the job site
- Conducting safety meetings and ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations
- Inspecting workmanship and materials for compliance with building codes and standards
- Ensuring strict compliance with health, safety, and all other relevant regulations
- Preparing and managing project budgets
- Monitoring expenses, approving expenditures, and preventing cost overruns.
- Selecting, hiring, and supervising subcontractors
- Reviewing performance of subcontractors and resolving conflicts or delays
- Ensuring that all required permits are obtained
- Making sure construction activities comply with local, state, and federal regulations
- Overseeing purchasing of materials, equipment, and supplies
- Ensuring resources are available and properly allocated
- Identifying delays, risks, or technical issues and implementing corrective actions
- Adjusting plans to keep the project on track
- Providing regular project updates to clients, architects, and senior management
- Conducting site meetings and addressing stakeholder concerns.
- Preparing progress reports, change orders, and project documentation
- Maintaining accurate project records for reference and compliance
- Ensuring final inspections are completed
- Overseeing project closeout, including punch lists and client handover.
Construction Manager Requirements – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Career Success
If you are seeking the construction manager job, here are major requirements most recruiters/employers may want you to meet to be considered for hiring:
- Adequate knowledge and technical understanding of construction, such as knowledge of building codes, trade sequencing, and best building practices
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for coordinating and liaising with a variety of different professionals, such as contractors, subcontractors, city inspectors, architects, and suppliers
- Strong judgment in deciding majorly for construction projects, while also fully understanding the implications of the decisions
- Good financial management skills and budgeting experience for estimating costs and ensuring that projects do not go over the proposed costs
- Ability to analyze problems and implement timely solutions
- Project management skills: Strong ability to plan, schedule, and manage multiple tasks and teams, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met
- Solid leadership skills for driving productivity, resolving conflicts, and maintaining site safety
- Deep understanding of construction techniques, tools, equipment, and building materials, which ensure quality and efficiency on the job site
- Ability to create budgets, track expenses, manage bids, and control project costs to prevent overruns
- Proficiency with construction software, including MS Project, Procore, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and scheduling software
- Strong communication skills for coordinating with clients, architects, suppliers, inspectors, and site teams
- Project controls, with the ability to evaluate data and determine the needs of a project
- Strong understanding of local, state, and federal construction laws, zoning rules, and safety regulations
- Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and ability to enforce safety procedures to prevent workplace accidents
- Possess valid driver’s license for traveling between job sites, meeting vendors, or inspecting project locations (often required)
- 3 – 7+ years of hands-on construction or site management experience
- A Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or in a related field.
Construction Manager Job Description Templates
Here are construction manager job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Construction Manager
Reports To: Director of Construction / Project Executive / Senior Management
Location: [Your Company Location or Project Site]
Employment Type: Full-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a leading construction and development firm specializing in [commercial, residential, industrial, civil, infrastructure, or healthcare] projects. We are committed to delivering high-quality, safe, and efficient construction services while maintaining strong client relationships. Our team-oriented culture supports innovation, integrity, and long-term professional growth.
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Construction Manager to oversee construction projects from planning through completion. This role is responsible for managing schedules, budgets, subcontractors, quality, and safety to ensure successful project delivery. The Construction Manager will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, field teams, clients, and subcontractors to keep projects on track.
The ideal candidate is a strong leader with deep construction knowledge, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
Project Planning & Coordination
- Oversee construction project planning, scheduling, and coordination of all phases of work.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and project managers to interpret plans and specifications.
- Develop detailed project schedules, milestones, and sequencing plans.
- Ensure all materials, equipment, and labor are available to meet project deadlines.
Site Management
- Manage daily operations on the job site, ensuring work is performed safely, efficiently, and according to standards.
- Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress, resolve issues, and ensure compliance with project requirements.
- Coordinate on-site labor, subcontractors, and vendors.
- Enforce safety standards and maintain OSHA compliance.
Subcontractor & Vendor Management
- Review and approve subcontractor scopes, qualifications, and performance.
- Schedule and coordinate subcontractor activities to ensure timely project execution.
- Maintain communication with vendors regarding material deliveries and equipment needs.
Quality Assurance & Control
- Ensure all work meets company quality standards, project specifications, and building codes.
- Evaluate completed work and provide direction for corrections or improvements.
- Participate in punch list creation and project closeout procedures.
Budgeting & Cost Control
- Assist with preparing project budgets, cost estimates, and financial forecasts.
- Track expenses, manage change orders, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Review subcontractor and vendor invoices for accuracy before approval.
Communication & Reporting
- Prepare and deliver project updates, progress reports, meeting minutes, and presentations.
- Communicate regularly with clients, project teams, and stakeholders.
- Participate in construction meetings and coordinate resolutions to emerging issues.
Risk Management & Problem Solving
- Identify potential risks related to safety, schedule, quality, and costs.
- Implement corrective actions swiftly to minimize disruptions.
- Support the development and enforcement of safety plans and emergency procedures.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, codes, and industry standards.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and foster collaboration.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
- Proficiency with construction software such as Procore, PlanGrid, Buildertrend, or similar.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- High level of professionalism and attention to detail.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred.
- 5–10 years of construction experience, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
- Experience managing commercial, residential, or civil projects depending on company focus.
- OSHA 30 certification preferred; additional safety training is a plus.
- Valid driver’s license required.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Frequent on-site work with exposure to outdoor weather, noise, and machinery.
- Requires standing, walking, climbing, and lifting materials as needed.
- Office work required for reporting, planning, and administrative tasks.
- Occasional overtime, weekend, or evening work depending on project demands.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any legally protected category.
Additional Information
- This job description outlines primary responsibilities but may include additional duties as needed.
- Responsibilities may vary depending on project scope and company requirements.
- Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment background checks or skill assessments may be required.
How to Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Us
[Your Company Name] is a construction firm specializing in [commercial/residential/industrial/civil] projects. We are seeking an experienced Construction Manager to lead and oversee project operations from start to finish.
Job Summary
The Construction Manager is responsible for supervising construction activities, managing schedules and budgets, coordinating subcontractors, ensuring safety compliance, and delivering quality work on time and within budget. This role plays a key part in project planning, execution, and completion.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily site operations and coordinate subcontractors and field teams
- Manage project schedules, budgets, materials, and resources
- Conduct site inspections and ensure safety and quality standards are met
- Review plans, specifications, and project requirements
- Communicate with clients, vendors, and project stakeholders
- Resolve issues, manage risks, and ensure timely project delivery
- Approve invoices, track costs, and support change order management
Qualifications
- 5+ years of construction experience, including supervisory or management roles
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, building codes, and project management
- Ability to read plans and manage schedules, budgets, and subcontractors
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency with construction management software preferred
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field preferred
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Construction Manager Job Description for Resume
If you are making a new resume or CV and have worked previously as a construction manager or are presently working in that position, you should boost the resume/CV by adding the professional experience section to it.
The professional or work experience section helps you to effectively let the recruiter/employer know that you have been successful performing the duties and responsibilities of a construction manager.
This information in your resume/CV can greatly help you gain an interview with the recruiter/employer, especially if the construction manager work experience is important to the new position that you are applying for.
You can quickly make an impactful professional experience section for your resume/CV by applying the construction manager job description example provided above.
(Learn how to make an effective resume applying the Employer-focused Resume Writing Technique)
Conclusion
This post is helpful to individuals interested in the construction manager career.
They will be able to make the right decision about getting into the career or not by learning about the duties and responsibilities that construction managers commonly perform from reading this page.
Information provided on this page is also valuable to recruiters/employers looking to hire for the vacant construction manager position in their companies.
They can apply any of the construction manager job description templates provided on this page in making a detailed description of the available position in recruiting for their companies.