Career Perspective in Construction Project Management
Construction project management is a tough assignment that requires different skill sets. There are different types of application areas covered under construction project management. Construction project management is the combined effort of a team working under the guidelines of a skilled project manager. The construction industry is an ever-growing and evergreen industry that demands more and more people to be engaged, and there is a lack of manpower in the construction industry. Therefore, the construction industry offers a wide range of employment opportunities according to different skill sets. In this topic, we are going to learn about Careers in Construction Project Management.
Roles and Responsibilities
Below mentioned is the breakdown of different kinds of roles and salaries as per the respective responsibilities covered under the construction project management:
1. Construction Project Manager
A project manager is the cornerstone of a construction project which looks after the project from start to completion. The manager is responsible for drafting the outline of the project and executing it as per the estimated timeline. The construction project manager is the construction site boss who keeps constant communication with the stakeholders and the construction workers to keep the project going in a synchronized way. A project manager is responsible for planning, budgeting, estimating the timeframe for project completion, and overseeing progress. The construction project manager must know multi-engineering aspects of construction project handling and have experience in handling projects. The project manager is the decision-maker on the construction site who is responsible for making a wise decision on the construction site in case of any real-time hurdles. The role of a construction project manager is one of the highest paying jobs ranging from 10 to 15 Lakhs per annum based on experience in the construction industry.
2. Architect
An architect is the creative designer and planner of the construction project as the architects develop the creative design of the project as per the client’s requirement and explain how the project is to be constructed. Thus, an architect is involved in the construction project from start to finish as the duty of implementing the client’s vision of the project is on the shoulders of the architect. An architect is paid 6 lakhs to 8 lakhs per annum on average in India and can demand more as per their work, qualification, and experience.
3. Project Engineers from different fields
Construction project management is a tall order which constitutes multi-engineering fields like civil engineering, mechanical engineering & electrical and electronics engineering. A team of engineers from different engineering fields is required on the construction site from start to finish for the successful implementation of the project under the supervision of the construction project manager. Engineers keep a keen eye on the daily tasks carried out on the construction site to oversee the progress of the project. They use the current technology and different computer software to develop various plans and eliminate the risks and flaws in the construction project plan. The average pay of the project engineers in the construction industry in India is 5lakhs per annum and more, depending on the experience and qualifications.
4. Workers on the construction site
The construction workers are the pillars of the construction project, without whom a construction project cannot be completed. There are different types of workers on the construction site, like masonry and ironworkers. They are the ones who are working day and night on the guidelines provided by the construction project manager. The construction workers are the project’s driving force, which turns the project on paper into a reality. They get their hands dirty and work hard to turn the client’s dream into a vision. The construction workers perform the physical work on the construction site, but they also operate different types of machinery used in the construction site. The class of workers operating the machinery on the construction site is called as the equipment operators. The construction workers are required to work in collaboration with the project manager and the project engineers to understand the specifications and construction guidelines. These construction workers are the backbone of the construction industry. The workers’ average pay varies as per the wage law of the state and the central government.
5. Supervisor
Supervision is an additional task that the construction project manager majorly performs. The supervisor acts as an intermediary between the construction workers and the upper management, balancing the whole construction project. In addition, the supervisor is responsible for handling the construction site to avoid any kind of chaos on the construction site. Communication is the key to the supervisor to avoid any kind of conflict between the management and the field members working on the construction site.
6. Electricians/ Technicians
The electricians or the technicians are the wiring men. A level 2 electrician can install the wiring in the newly constructed building and troubleshoot or fix any kind of electricity or wiring-related issue. During the construction, they are also responsible for fixing any light or power-related issue occurring on the construction site. In addition, the electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems included in the construction project. Many professionals in this field start their own businesses and use electrician invoicing software to bill clients accurately and consistently, ensuring they get paid on time and giving this career path plenty of flexibility.
7. Plumbers and fitters
The plumbers and the fitters are required to install and maintain the plumbing system in the building. Plumbers are required for both commercial and residential construction projects. The terms and conditions for their services are already predefined in the tender agreement. These professionals are usually independent contractors. The younger generation really likes their tech, too. Don’t be surprised if you see them using plumbing contractor software for everything from scheduling to invoices.
Conclusion – Construction Project Management Careers
The construction sector includes the construction of commercial, industrial, and residential buildings and engineering projects like roads, bridges, and utility systems. Construction includes both new construction and remodeling, additions, maintenance, and repairs.
Construction is among one of the renowned industries with the highest estimates for new employment openings. The jobs vary, ranging from unskilled laborer to skilled laborer and helper jobs to roles that require professional training, education, and apprentice skills. The construction industry offers a very vibrant career and a wide range of employment opportunities. Patience and hard work are very important in the construction industry as construction takes time. It’s a process of turning a plan into reality, and the same applies to make a career in the construction industry. Remember, perseverance never goes in vain and is paid off.
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