Construction manager
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work irregular and long hours, including weekends
- Usually work on building and demolition sites and may travel locally or nationally
- May work outdoors and in dusty, dirty and noisy conditions
- Need to lead others, make decisions and be safety conscious
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Manage construction sites
- Plan and check health and safety rules
- Assess materials and machinery needed
- Arrange budgets and manage costs
- Consult with clients and building professionals
- Hire and supervise workers and subcontractors
- Plan building schedules and organise supplies
- Make sure traffic and environmental rules are followed
- Review plans and instructions for work
- Communicate progress with clients and stakeholders
Outlook
New Zealand’s construction sector is expected to keep needing skilled managers as the country maintains, upgrades and builds housing, transport, water and community infrastructure. The industry is affected by economic cycles, costs and consent activity, so growth can vary. Digital tools such as Building Information Modelling, project management software and sustainability requirements are changing how construction projects are planned and delivered.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong organisation and planning skills
- Clear communication with clients, contractors and teams
- Good problem-solving under pressure
- Understanding of health, safety and risk management
- Ability to manage budgets, timelines and resources
- Confidence using digital project and construction tools
AUT programmes
- Construction Management Major – Bachelor of Construction
- Civil Construction Engineering Major - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.