Commercial Construction Project Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving field of commercial construction, the role of a project manager is crucial.

As the pace of development accelerates, the demand for skilled individuals who can supervise, direct, and ensure the quality of our commercial construction projects increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commercial construction project manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager delineating the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in understanding the nuances of project management in commercial construction,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable commercial construction project manager job description template, crafted for seamless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Commercial Construction Project Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Commercial Construction Project Managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the construction of commercial building projects from start to finish.

They must ensure that the project is completed within the designated timeframe and budget and to the client’s satisfaction.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Collaborate with architects and engineers to determine the best strategies for making the project successful.
• Develop a detailed project plan, including a work schedule and the required resources.
• Prepare and manage the budget for the project, ensuring that the construction costs do not exceed the estimated budget.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontractors to ensure timely delivery of materials and services.
• Manage the day-to-day work on the construction site, ensuring that all workers are performing their tasks efficiently and safely.
• Monitor the progress of the project, making necessary adjustments to the plan and schedule as needed.
• Ensure that all construction activities comply with legal requirements, building and safety codes, and other regulations.
• Communicate regularly with the client, providing updates on the project’s progress and addressing any concerns or issues that arise.
• Inspect the quality of the work done, ensuring that it meets the required standards and specifications.
• Resolve any problems or disputes that arise during the construction process.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Construction Project Manager to plan and oversee a wide variety of construction projects from beginning to end.

The candidate will be responsible for budgeting, organization, implementation, and scheduling of the projects.

Our ideal candidate will have an analytical mind and great organizational skills.

The goal will be to ensure all projects are delivered on time according to requirements and without exceeding the budget.

 

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers, architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project
• Negotiate contracts with external vendors to reach profitable agreements
• Obtain permits and licenses from appropriate authorities
• Determine needed resources (manpower, equipment and materials) from start to finish with attention to budgetary limitations
• Plan all construction operations and schedule intermediate phases to ensure deadlines will be met
• Supervise the work of laborers, mechanics etc. and give them guidance when needed
• Evaluate progress and prepare detailed reports
• Ensure adherence to all health and safety standards and report issues

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a construction project manager
• In-depth understanding of construction procedures and material and project management principles
• Familiarity with quality and health and safety standards
• Good knowledge of MS Office
• Familiarity with construction/ project management software
• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• A team player with leadership abilities
• BSc/BA in engineering, building science or relevant field
• PMP or equivalent certification will be an advantage

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commercial Construction Project Manager
• Work Environment: This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Construction.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $78,000 minimum to $152,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commercial Construction Project Manager Do?

Commercial Construction Project Managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the execution of various construction projects.

These can range from small renovation projects to large-scale commercial developments.

They typically work for construction companies, real estate developers or consultancies.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

To do this, they have to manage both the day-to-day work on-site and the broader project goals.

They work with architects and engineers to create project plans and timelines, identify potential risks and devise mitigation strategies.

They also ensure that all work is compliant with building regulations and safety laws.

Commercial Construction Project Managers communicate regularly with clients, reporting on progress and addressing any concerns or changes in requirements.

In addition, they manage the project’s budget, negotiate contracts with subcontractors, order materials, and oversee their delivery to the site.

When issues arise, such as delays, cost overruns or design alterations, the Project Manager is responsible for finding solutions and keeping the project on track.

They also conduct regular inspections to ensure that work is being carried out to the correct specifications and quality standards.

At the end of the project, they are often involved in the handover to the client, ensuring that all aspects of the building are functioning correctly and that any final touches have been completed to the client’s satisfaction.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Commercial Construction Project Manager should possess a mix of technical knowledge, managerial skills and industry experience to successfully oversee and complete construction projects.

These include:

• Strong knowledge of construction methods, construction designs, materials, industry trends and legal regulations, ensuring all projects comply with safety standards and building codes.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills to effectively coordinate and supervise a team of contractors, architects, engineers, and other professionals involved in the project.
• Superior planning and organization skills to prepare schedules, allocate resources, and monitor progress against deadlines and budgets.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify potential issues or delays in the project and formulate effective solutions.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills to liaise with clients, suppliers, government officials, and other stakeholders, ensuring everyone is updated about the project’s progress and any changes in plans.
• A solid understanding of financial management to manage project budgets, cost estimates, and financial reports.
• Proficiency in project management software and technologies, for efficient project planning and execution.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances, demonstrating resilience and flexibility.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level Commercial Construction Project Managers are often expected to have at least 3 to 5 years of experience in the construction industry.

This experience can be gained through internships, junior roles such as Construction Coordinator or Assistant Project Manager, or on-the-job training.

It’s beneficial for these professionals to have hands-on experience with different construction tasks, which provides a solid understanding of the entire construction process.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience generally have a thorough knowledge of commercial construction processes, including the ability to plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from early development to completion.

They may have worked in roles such as Senior Project Coordinator or Associate Project Manager, gaining valuable experience in leading teams, managing vendors, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards.

Those with over 10 years of experience are often considered seasoned professionals.

They may have extensive project management experience and might have worked on large scale and complex construction projects.

These professionals are usually competent in handling multiple projects simultaneously, negotiating contracts, handling financial matters, and leading large teams.

With this level of experience, they may be ready for senior leadership or executive roles within the company.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Education and Training Requirements

Commercial Construction Project Managers generally need a bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field.

During their degree, they learn about construction methods, building codes, and safety regulations, and are trained in project management, budgeting, and cost control.

They also need to be proficient in using project management software, such as Microsoft Project or Primavera.

Some roles may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in construction management or a related field.

This advanced education can provide deeper knowledge in areas such as sustainable building practices, contract negotiation, and risk management.

Commercial Construction Project Managers may also need to have a Construction Manager Certification (CMC), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, which demonstrates their ability to plan, coordinate, and oversee construction projects.

They may also need certain state-specific licenses or permits, depending on the location and the type of project they are managing.

Continuing education is also important in this role, as construction methods, technologies, and regulations can change over time.

These professionals often participate in seminars and workshops to keep their knowledge and skills current.

Field experience, often gained through internships or entry-level positions, is also highly valued, as it provides practical understanding of the day-to-day operations of a construction site.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Salary Expectations

A Commercial Construction Project Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $95,167 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly depending on the individual’s years of experience in the field, level of education, geographical location, and the size and budget of the construction projects they manage.

 

Commercial Construction Project Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Commercial Construction Project Manager need?

Commercial Construction Project Managers need strong leadership and management skills to oversee projects and teams.

They should have excellent communication abilities to coordinate with various stakeholders, from workers to clients and suppliers.

Proficiency in project management software is important, as well as solid problem-solving skills to anticipate and resolve construction issues.

They also need a thorough understanding of construction processes and building codes.

 

Do Commercial Construction Project Managers need a degree?

While some Commercial Construction Project Managers might come from a trade background, it’s increasingly common for these professionals to hold a degree in construction management, civil engineering, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, they must have significant experience in the construction industry.

 

What should you look for in a Commercial Construction Project Manager resume?

Look for a combination of education and experience in construction or project management.

Certifications such as Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) can be assets.

Check for a track record of completed construction projects, leadership skills, and familiarity with construction software.

Also, look for skills such as budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.

 

What qualities make a good Commercial Construction Project Manager?

A good Commercial Construction Project Manager is a strong leader who can manage teams and keep projects on track.

They are excellent problem-solvers, ready to address any issues that might arise during construction.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that all aspects of the project adhere to plans and regulations.

They also have strong communication skills, enabling them to effectively coordinate with all project stakeholders.

 

Is it challenging to hire Commercial Construction Project Managers?

Hiring Commercial Construction Project Managers can be challenging due to the specific combination of skills and experience required.

They need to have a deep understanding of construction processes, building codes, project management principles, and be able to lead teams effectively.

However, with a careful recruitment process, you can find professionals who meet these criteria.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the true substance behind being a commercial construction project manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about overseeing a construction site.

It’s about sculpting the skyline, one project at a time.

With our exclusive commercial construction project manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards fine-tuned job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every construction project is a part of the broader urban landscape.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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