Construction Contracts Manager
Job Description:Construction contracts managers look after building contracts and construction costs.
Job Category:What you will do:
In this job, you would:
- draft plans and estimates for building work, including budgets and timescales
- prepare and present documents for tender
- plan what work needs doing
- tell teams, contractors and suppliers what to do
- gather information for invoicing at the end of the project
- supply information to resolve contract disagreements
- identify areas for improvement
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of building and construction
- maths knowledge
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- business management skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- leadership skills
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Construction Contracts Manager, you typically do not need specific subjects, but certain subjects and skills can be beneficial in preparing for a career in construction management. Construction Contracts Managers are responsible for overseeing construction projects, managing contracts, and ensuring that construction projects are completed on time and within budget. Here are some relevant subjects:
- Mathematics (Maths): Mathematics is essential for construction management as it involves budgeting, cost estimation, measurements, and calculations related to construction projects.
- Business Studies or Economics: Business Studies or Economics can provide a basic understanding of financial management and business principles, which are relevant in construction contracts management.
- English Language: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for drafting contracts, communicating with contractors, and preparing project reports.
- Design and Technology: Design and Technology courses can offer insights into construction methods, building materials, and design concepts.
- Physics: While not mandatory, Physics can help you understand principles related to structural engineering and construction materials.
- Geography: Geography can provide knowledge of geographical factors that may affect construction projects, such as environmental considerations and site selection.
- IT Skills: Proficiency in using computer software for project management, contract administration, and construction documentation is valuable.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject about construction.
Subjects that include units on contract law are useful, for example:
- civil or structural engineering
- construction management
- building studies
- quantity surveying
Apprenticeship
You could start by doing a degree apprenticeship in construction management or design and construction management. After you finish, you can specialise in contract work.
Work
You may be able to move into contract management after working as an administrator or contracts assistant at a construction company.
Experience and qualifications in quantity surveying or estimating could also be useful.
Direct Application
If you have project management or contract experience from another industry, like civil engineering, you could use this to apply for contract management jobs in construction.
Restrictions and Requirements
You’ll need to have a full driving licence.
Working Hours and Environment:
Your typical work hours could be variable.
You could work at a client’s business, on a construction site or in an office.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could:
- move into general construction management
- become a consultant
- become a company director
- work in larger construction project management by completing a
- degree apprenticeship in project control
- work in support services, like health and safety inspection
- move into a related industry, such as civil engineering