A project manager (PM) is responsible for overseeing every aspect of a construction project, including planning, execution, timeframes and budgets to ensure that the final goal is met. Typically, on projects, a PM will usually work closely with architects and engineers. A project manager’s role varies day-to-day depending on the size, complexity and stage of the project. 

Key responsibilities of a project manager include:

  • Liaising with the customer/client and the suppliers
  • Ensuring standards such as health and safety are within regulations
  • Developing schedules and ensuring the project stays on track 
  • Liaising with engineers, architects and surveyors to ensure budgets and goals are met

Day-to-day tasks of a PM could include: 

  • Reporting to clients
  • Quality checking
  • Planning schedules for employees and the whole project
  • Maintaining a high quality of health and safety
  • Liaising with architects, engineers and surveyors 
  • Admin

how do you become a project manager? 

There are different ways to become a project manager, through an academic route such as a university course or through a vocational route such as an apprenticeship, working your way up or applying directly. 

For a university route, you will need to complete a foundation, higher national diploma or a degree accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building. University courses could be in subjects such as

  • Estimating
  • Surveying or civil engineering
  • Construction engineering
  • Construction site management
  • Building studies or building engineering

For an apprenticeship you will usually need 4-5 GCSE’s graded A-C, however, this can vary depending on the apprenticeship. 

Read more about how to become a project manager here. 

what are the key skills of a project manager?

A project manager needs to have a diverse skill set, as they have to work with a range of people such as clients, suppliers and on-site workers. Good communication is an important skill to possess if you are pursuing a career in project management. Other preferable skills are:

  • Leadership skills
  • Management skills
  • Business management skills
  • Knowledge of building, construction, engineering and technology
  • Maths knowledge
  • Written and verbal skills

what is the salary of a project manager? 

A project managers salary can vary depending on experience, client, location, cost of project and time scale of the project. The average salary of a project manager is £58,000. However, this can vary from £40,000 up to £74,000.