A site manager is responsible for the running of construction projects and supervising those works to ensure everything is running smoothly and to schedule. They are typically the go-to contact on the site, with whom individuals outside the project (salespeople, delivery personnel and the general public) can discuss their questions and concerns.
Most site managers are the first construction operatives to enter the site and the last ones to leave, depending on the needs of the project. One of the most important responsibilities of the site manager role is to always maintain a very visible presence.
To help you understand more about the role, we've created an in-depth construction site manager job description. Find out about what a site manager does, the qualifications you need and how Randstad can help.
what does a site manager do
Site manager duties usually begin before the construction project even starts. They will be required to set out the site, position vehicles and equipment as required, and organise various facilities to ensure the location meets various health and safety standards. A crucial site manager duty is to ensure the project will meet the builder's specifications, budgets and allotted time.
It's the most responsible position on the construction site and will often move candidates from any previous construction or labourer position into a more administrative role. However, that is not to say they won't get involved with the project as needed. Site managers will be required to have well-rounded construction skills to cover any sickness or injury.
A key component of the construction site manager job description is that they will also take on a strong communication role. A site manager will be required to liaise with various personnel, clients and the general public as required. In addition to this, they will often need to supervise staff members, motivate the overall workforce, solve problems that are occurring on the site and meet with various workers to discuss their needs.
Site managers will usually find work with larger companies or public departments and these openings can include civil engineering companies, building companies or smaller construction companies and/or contractors.
education and qualifications
Most construction site manager job descriptions will require a degree to be considered for the role. Typically, the degrees needed are in construction management or engineering. This will be required to gain chartered status through the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) too. In addition, gaining chartered status will require candidates to be employed as site managers for a set period through an approved, regulated employer.
It's also possible to land a site manager job by holding a non-construction degree, but candidates will be required to top up their education by taking the Graduate Diploma Programme through the CIOB.
It's also possible to take a more applied approach to the academic requirements too. BTEC courses offer progression into site management level studies, where completion of the course will grant candidates with chartered status immediately. Work experience is generally required too.
Candidates will need to have been employed within a construction-level role for a period of between three to five years to be considered as prospective site managers through an employer offering company sponsorship.
Speculative applications can also be made when candidates are within their degree programme. This is especially useful in gaining employment within a smaller company, as candidates are bringing the most up-to-date skills possible to their business.
working conditions and salary
Site managers can expect a standard 40-hour working week when employed during a project, but this will often require evening and/or weekend work.
Site manager duties include working in various inclement weather conditions, especially during the earliest phases of a project where roofing has not been installed (which could also require working at heights to perform the necessary safety inspections).
Those who are employed full-time can expect salaries between £35,000 and £43,000, according to recent statistics. Those who are employed in London have the highest chance of securing the most well-paid positions, whereas those in the north-eastern parts of England tend to be paid closer to the starting rate.
working with randstad
Working with Randstad will help give you the best possible chance of securing your new site manager role. We'll work together to understand the type of position you're looking for and any additional skills or attributes that could set you apart from the competition.
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