Bing
Australian map Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
Home > Careers > How to become > How to become a construction manager in Australia: careers in construction
Building & Construction

How to become a construction manager in Australia: careers in construction

How to become a construction manager in Australia: careers in construction
Construction managers have a pivotal role to play in organisation and execution of construction job sites. They oversee and advise staff on all matters concerning the day-to-day running of job site operations. They liaise with construction workers and investors, ensure workplace health and safety regulations are adhered to and delegate roles and tasks amongst workers.
Pathways

Being a construction manager: daily duties

Construction managers are involved in all aspects o a building site’s operations and need to have a thorough understanding of the building and construction industry. They set calendars for works to be completed, coordinate workflow and report on progress to development investors. Construction managers ensure the smooth running of the job site and manage any issues that arise, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to plan.

Tasks:

  • Managing labour resources
  • Enforcing safety regulations
  • Identifying potential workplace hazards
  • Communicating with workers and investors
  • Organising building inspections
Skills

Being a construction manager: skills for success

Efficient problem solving skills, the ability to multitask and excellent communication skills are necessary to be a construction manager. The ability to manage competing priorities, sound judgment and an eye for detail are also required, as is the ability to oversee a building project, costing materials and labour appropriately.
Skills/attributes
  • Communication skills
  • Able to delegate tasks effectively
  • Able to multi-task
  • Able to work in high stress situations
Does this sound like you?
Find courses now >
Specs

Specialised roles within construction

There are a range of opportunities and career paths within construction management.
  • Building surveyor
    Building surveyors liaise with building owners and construction crews during the planning phase of construction projects and ensure planning requirements and building regulations are met.
  • Civil engineer
    Civil engineers understand how to create, build and plan large infrastructure projects. They specify materials, techniques and the type of building to ensure structures are robust enough to withstand stress and strain.
  • Quantity surveyor
    Quantity surveyors are in charge of financial management and planning on construction sites. They formulate cost estimates and put in place procedures to ensure outcomes are achieved within budget.
Pathways

Educational pathways for construction managers

There are several ways you can enter the construction industry and work your way to the level of construction manager. There are a range of study options, combined with practical experience, that can boost your career.
  • Start your career
    Targeted courses will give you a head start on your construction industry career.
    Explore your study options >
  • Strengthen your skills
    Find gainful employment within the building and construction industry by honing your industry skills.
    Find courses that fit you >
  • Build your resume
    Pursue higher-level employment opportunities by adding to your professional skill set.
    Expand your qualifications >
  • Industry requirements
    To work on a construction site in Australia, you will need to have a Construction Induction Card.
    Jump to resources section >
  • Finding Work
    Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your construction career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.
    View sample resumes >
  • Employment Prospects
    There are high levels of growth forecast in the construction industry, meaning a range of new blog stories.

Resources for Construction managers

Related Articles

WORKFORCE TRENDS

Unemployment and the global financial crisis

When it comes to determining exactly what the global financial crisis will mean for Aussie jobs, the figures are conflicting. Despite doom and gloom predictions, the figures from October were encouraging with an increase of 34 300 jobs

Read more
WORKFORCE TRENDS
Building & Construction

Building and construction industry going green

The building and construction industry is undergoing a green makeover which is simultaneously creating jobs and fighting climate change.

Read more
CAREER ADVICE
STUDYING

Apprenticeships a great way to launch your career

If you have just finished school, are re-entering the workforce or simply want to change careers – have you considered applying for an Australian apprenticeship?

Read more
Pop up

DON'T GO!
Stay in the loop with loads of
free study and career advice

Thanks, but no thanks
Thank you email

WELCOME!

we'll be in touch

Resources

About us

Career FAQs markets a range of courses from leading Australian tertiary education providers, and receives a commission from them for each prospective student.
© Career FAQs 2018 | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use