Difference Between Construction Manager & Project Manager
A construction manager and project manager serve as organizers and leaders of an assigned initiative. A construction manager has a more defined role, who works specifically on a construction project. A project manager is an expert leader, who can work in a variety of industries. As a generalist, a project manager completes administrative duties, such as organizing meetings, completing paperwork, and broadly completing a short-term project that's tailored to the goals of a specific client or business. A construction manager follows an established set of blueprints, and oversees sub-contractors and the overall construction process involved in completing a building project.
Providing coordination for large and small building initiatives, a construction manager delegates tasks to employees, and communicates with sub-contractors about the work that needs to be done to complete a building project. Adherence to specific timelines and trouble-shooting are important duties of a construction manager. Following safety protocols is also a critical responsibility of a construction manager. Similarly, a project manager is an organizer, who also delegates tasks. Once assigned a project to oversee, a project manager must determine what needs to be done; the timeline for completion; and the best way to accomplish the tasks for the project. Both jobs require a detail-oriented person, who can communicate effectively, manage a budget, and bring the project across the finish line.
It is possible for a project manager and a construction manager to obtain gainful employment without earning a college degree. However, working for large organizations generally requires advanced education. A construction manager, who has earned an undergraduate degree in construction management, is more likely to be selected for large-scale jobs. A degree in construction management covers topics such as labor relations, engineering, fundamentals of construction, concrete and electrical principles. Previous experience in construction or in an internship, provides evidence of practical knowledge needed for the job. Project managers typically are more marketable, if they have an undergraduate degree in organizational or project management. Courses include planning, resource management, group behavior, business strategy, and budgeting. Just like construction management, an internship applies classroom learning to a practical experience.
In 2016, construction managers earned a median wage of $89,300, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Large projects could garner as much as $158,000, and smaller projects may bring in a salary of $53,740. A specific date for project managers has not been collected, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics equates this position to a business operations specialist. In 2014, this position was assigned an average annual wage of $67,280.
Years of Experience
Both a construction and a project manager begin in the trenches. Construction managers begin as construction workers or serve in an internship, prior to obtaining a management position. Similarly, a project manager often begins in an assistant position or in an internship, before earning a spot in management.
Job Growth Trend
The need for construction managers is on the rise. Available positions are expected to increase by 11 percent from now to 2026. New York, Florida, Texas, California, and Georgia have the most available positions for construction managers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that data would be collected on project manager positions, beginning in 2018. As project manager positions are tracked and considered a profession, job growth trend will be more readily available.
Dr. Kelly Meier earned her doctorate from Minnesota State Mankato in Educational Leadership. She is the author and co-author of 12 books focusing on customer service, diversity and team building. She serves as a consultant for business, industry and educational organizations. Dr. Meier has written business articles and books for Talico, Inc, Dynateam Consulting, Inc. and Kinect Education Group.