Construction Managers

Construction managers manage and control the building process. They also maintain contact with a wide variety of building specialists (e.g. architects, civil engineers, etc.).

The construction manager is responsible for all facets of the contract from legal to financial entities, and to ensure that the progress is maintained to avoid delay.

Job Characteristics

• Controlling and managing of workers, subcontractors and suppliers.



• Pre-tender planning and programming of projects to ensure the optimal use of resources.



• Programming during project.



• Being responsible for the quality-control of labour and materials used in buildings.



• Liaising with public authorities.



• Ensuring cost and quality control.



• Co-ordinating with consultants and ensuring that the requirements of the clients are met.



• Ensuring timely completion of projects.

Requirements
 
Secondary Education
A HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption is required for admission to South African universities.

A HIGCSE or outstanding IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, is required to be admitted to South African technikons.
 
Compulsory subjects:
Mathematics and Physical Science (South Africa) - varies from institution to institution

Tertiary Education
B. Sc. (Building Management) is offered by the Universities of Cape Town and Pretoria. The Universities of Natal, Orange Free State and Port Elizabeth offer the B. Sc. degree (Construction Management) whilst the University of Witwatersrand offers the B. Sc. (Building).
 
The N. Dip.: Building and the B. Tech. degree in: Construction Management is offered by various South African technikons. The Polytechnic does not offer these courses.

Personality
The prospective construction manager should be a practically-minded, hands-on person, with good interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities.

Work Opportunities
The main employment areas exist with building contractors and sub-contractors. Self-employment is a possibility after sufficient experience has been gained.
 
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