Construction Project Manager
The person who runs a project's cost, schedule, contracts, and communication.
Quick Answer
A construction project manager (PM) is the contractor's representative who manages a project's budget, schedule, contracts, and communication with the owner and design team. The PM buys out subcontractors, tracks costs and changes, processes submittals and RFIs, and works with the superintendent who runs the field. They typically work from the office and the site.
The Full Picture
The project manager is the main business and administrative lead for a project on the contractor side. They are responsible for cost and schedule performance and for keeping the owner, architect, subcontractors, and internal team aligned. Responsibilities usually include contract administration, buyout, cost tracking, change management, and billing.
Day to day, a PM handles RFIs and submittals, reviews subcontractor pay applications, runs owner-architect-contractor meetings, updates forecasts, and resolves problems before they become claims. They also help maintain the schedule with the superintendent and escalate risks to project executives.
In many firms, PMs also participate in preconstruction: reviewing drawings, assisting with estimates and bid packages, leveling subcontractor bids, and transitioning the job from the estimating team to operations. Smaller firms may have one person covering both estimating and project management.
The role pairs with the superintendent: the PM manages paper, money, and relationships while the superintendent directs field work, sequencing, and safety. Many PMs come from engineering or construction management programs and may pursue credentials such as the PMP or CCM, though requirements vary by firm.
Real Examples
Common Misconceptions
People assume: The project manager runs the job site.
Actually: The superintendent leads field operations. The PM manages the contract, cost, schedule, and communications, and visits the site regularly but is not responsible for daily crew direction.
People assume: A construction PM is the same as an owner's project manager.
Actually: The contractor's PM works for the builder, while an owner's representative or owner's PM works for the owner. Their interests and responsibilities differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a construction project manager do?
A construction PM manages a project's budget, schedule, contracts, subcontractors, RFIs, submittals, changes, and owner communication from award through closeout.
What is the difference between a project manager and a superintendent?
The PM manages the commercial and administrative side, while the superintendent manages field operations, crews, sequencing, and site safety. The two work as a team.
What qualifications does a construction PM need?
Many hold a construction management or engineering degree and have field or estimating experience. Credentials such as PMP or CCM exist, but employers vary in what they require.
Does a project manager do preconstruction work?
Often, particularly at smaller firms. PMs may review documents, support estimates, develop bid packages, and level subcontractor bids before handing off to operations.
Who does the project manager report to?
Usually a senior project manager, project executive, or operations director at the contracting firm.