Construction Manager
What do Construction Managers do?
The role of a Construction Manager is crucial if the construction of any new nuclear project is to be completed on time, within budget and to the required quality standards. This may be a power station, a nuclear process plant or even just a simple office block. Coordination of various construction activities is a Construction Manager’s bread and butter; they lead people, manage resources, and liaise with stakeholders to optimise project success.
Typical duties and responsibilities of a Construction Manager
- People Leader: One of the most important roles of a Construction Manager is to inspire, motivate and manage their team,.
- Resource & Risk Management: Allocate resources efficiently (including labour, equipment, and materials) and mitigate risks effectively to support completion of construction activities on time and within budget.
- Quality Control: Implement and oversee quality assurance processes that ensure construction work meets regulatory requirements and industry standards; this may include a need to carry out regular inspections and audits of your team's work.
- Stakeholder Management: Maintain open and effective communication with project stakeholders, providing regular updates on progress.
Skills and knowledge required to be a Construction Manager
- Technical Proficiency: A grasp of fundamental construction principles and specialist practices is a must, as well as familiarity with materials, building codes and regulations.
- Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in reviewing project plans, specifications, and documentation, with a commitment to ensuring quality and compliance throughout the construction process.
- Interpersonal Skills: A construction manager must successfully motivate, inspire and lead their team to efficient and proficient success.
- Time Management: An ability to prioritise tasks and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced construction environment.
- Critical Thinking: Making informed decisions relies on attention to detail and objective analysis of complex problems and different options.
How do I become a Construction Manager?
Industry Experience
If you have already started out within an internship or entry-level position, demonstrating your competency and gaining experience will be incredibly valuable. Build your network to seek mentoring from experienced colleagues, look out for development opportunities, and pursue professional certifications. Developing your project management skills along the way can be particularly valuable.
Apprenticeships
If you would prefer to earn whilst you learn, why not consider completing an engineering apprenticeship? This can help you to get those essential technical knowledge and skills at the same time as building up valuable experience. Get started out in the industry and, whilst it may not allow you to jump straight into a senior role, it’s possible to start out as an Assistant Engineer and continue to develop.
Academic Route
Pursuing a college course or university degree in construction, civil engineering or related fields can help propel you into a role within Construction Management. A degree often takes 3-5 years, and may include an opportunity to gain experience in industry.
