Good employment opportunities for construction managers are
expected through 2012 because the number of job openings should be
sufficient to accommodate the number of qualified managers seeking to
enter the occupation. Because the construction industry often is seen
as having dirty, strenuous, and hazardous working conditions, even for
managers, many potential managers choose other types of careers.
Employment of construction managers is projected to grow about as fast as the average
for all occupations through 2012, as the level and complexity of
construction activity continues to grow. Prospects in construction
management, architectural and engineering services, and construction
contracting firms should be best for persons who have a bachelor’s or
higher degree in construction science, construction management, or
civil engineering, as well as practical experience working in
construction. Employers prefer applicants with previous construction
work experience who can combine a strong background in building
technology with proven supervisory or managerial skills. In addition to
those arising from job growth, many openings should result annually
from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or
leave the labor force.
The increasing complexity of construction
projects should boost demand for management-level personnel within the
construction industry, as sophisticated technology and the
proliferation of laws setting standards for buildings and construction
materials, worker safety, energy efficiency, and environmental
protection have further complicated the construction process. Advances
in building materials and construction methods; the need to replace
much of the Nation’s infrastructure; and the growing number of
multipurpose buildings, electronically operated “smart” buildings, and
energy-efficient structures will further add to the demand for more
construction managers. However, employment of construction managers can
be sensitive to the short-term nature of many projects and to cyclical
fluctuations in construction activity.
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