If you are hiring a construction manager, develop a detailed job description to recruit the best applicants. The most qualified applicants help you select the most effective team member that matches your corporate culture. The following are critical responsibilities of an effective construction manager.
1. Work With the Project Architect
Construction manager and architect responsibilities often overlap. Document all tasks to be performed by the construction project management team. Documenting these responsibilities helps everyone understand their scope of responsibility. Each individual needs the authority to ensure that these tasks are completed. Don’t forget to identify the type of construction management software used and ensure that all individuals get the necessary training.
2. Understand the Budget and Timeline
Every construction manager must have a complete understanding of the budget and timeline. They need access to all existing and proposed spending records. If the manager does not have all of this information, they cannot make an informed decision about human resources and materials that can be used. Take the time to invest in a software solution that automates budget options and ongoing expenses.
3. Know Local Ordinances
Every new construction project is subject to bureaucratic challenges leading to potential delays. A project manager with experience with the local governing officials helps you manage these challenges. Look for someone that has significant experience working with:
- Planning and zoning departments
- Building permit officials
- Americans with Disabilities Act requirements
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines
4. Build an Efficient Team
Your project team must understand their authority in developing an appropriate construction team. Some managers prefer to work with one contracting firm that handles all aspects of the construction process. Others like to hire highly specialized subcontractors. While the initial cost may appear expensive, these specialists often save your company in the long run.
5. Monitor Project Deadlines
Establish a clear and consistent way for your team to communicate the project’s status. Hire project managers that effectively communicate. Make sure your communication expectations are clearly defined. While the overall project completion is necessary, a good construction manager monitors smaller deadlines throughout the project to ensure the final deadline is achieved.
6. Review Change Orders
Change orders are a necessary part of construction management. These are changes to the scope of the project. Your construction manager reviews each change order and determines how it will impact the overall budget and timeline for the project. For example, changing materials is costly when inventory has been purchased. The budget is affected by having to return materials, often paying a restocking fee. In addition, a delay in receiving new materials impacts the project completion date. Project managers must be aware of the impact change orders have on construction.
7. Order Supplies
The construction manager is ultimately responsible for ensuring that materials and supplies are available. For smaller sites, you may not have the physical space to store materials for weeks until they are needed. The weather or labor negotiations can impact delivery from vendors. Some managers may find it more cost-effective to rent short-term storage units as a warehouse for holding supplies until needed. In addition to having easy access to materials, many facilities are climate-controlled and offer security.
8. Negotiate Material Cost
Seek out candidates with experience negotiating with inventory suppliers. Many have established relationships with suppliers, allowing them to take advantage of unadvertised promotions. Those negotiation skills often overlap with their general management skills. They are often more adept at communicating and managing customers, stakeholders, and team members.
9. Maintain Quality Control
Construction managers are constantly ensuring that the project meets the contracted scope of service. If quality control policies are not established and enforced throughout the project, the construction can be put on hold. These delays negatively impact the budget and deadline.
10. Communicate Clearly
Communication is a vital component of project management. Your project manager must fit in with your company’s culture. Look for individuals that communicate with you in a professional tone. Be sure the applicant effectively uses your preferred communication systems, such as email or online meetings.
Documenting your company’s requirements helps you know your employees understand the job responsibilities and objectives. You can then focus on finding the applicant that best matches your short- and long-term organizational goals.
