Construction manager

What does a Construction Manager do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A construction manager is responsible for leading, coordinating, and following up on construction projects from planning to completion. Tasks include ensuring that the project adheres to schedules, budgets, and quality standards, as well as complying with health, safety, and environmental regulations. The role involves close contact with contractors, clients, authorities, and other professionals. The work environment is often varied and can include office work, meetings, and on-site presence where coordination and problem-solving happen in real-time.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for construction managers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, increasing to 49 900 SEK in 2023 and reaching 50 200 SEK in 2024. The total increase over the period is approximately 9.4%. This positive trend reflects an increased demand for qualified construction managers, especially with advancements in technology, automation, and sustainability requirements within the construction sector. The market’s need for specialized construction managers has contributed to rising salary levels, while competition for experienced candidates has also increased.

Construction Manager Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 51 200 SEK, women 47 300 SEK (women earn 92% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary across different parts of the country, with metropolitan regions and areas with major infrastructure projects often offering higher wages.

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a construction manager usually involves a degree in engineering within construction and civil engineering, but opportunities also exist for those with experience from the construction industry and supplementary training. The profession requires technical skills, project management abilities, and good collaboration skills. Practical experience and certifications can be crucial for employment and career development.

• Formal education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in construction and civil engineering (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include BAS-P/U, occupational health and safety training, and project management certificates
• Practical experience: Internships or trainee programs during or after studies are highly recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies, often with a technical focus
• Courses & self-study: Opportunities to supplement with online courses in project management, work environment, and digital tools

Common Benefits and Compensation

Construction managers are often offered company cars or car allowances, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and pension contributions beyond collective agreement wages. Bonus programs and flexible working hours are also common, especially with larger employers and consulting firms.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for roles as a construction manager is considered relatively balanced in the job market. Employers place high demands on technical competence, project management experience, and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously. Challenges in the profession often involve coordinating many actors, solving problems quickly, and keeping projects within set time and budget constraints. Increasing digitalization and sustainability requirements mean that construction managers also need to stay updated on new technologies and regulations. Flexibility and continuous skills development are essential for long-term success.

Tips for Aspiring Construction Managers

To succeed as a construction manager, it is beneficial to have a structured approach and confidence in decision-making. Those who are communicative and collaborate easily with different professional roles often find their daily work smoother across all project phases. Gaining practical experience early, such as through summer jobs or internships, provides valuable insight into the industry and improves employment prospects. Curiosity and willingness to stay updated on technical innovations and regulations are important traits in a rapidly changing sector. Good problem-solving skills and patience under pressure, as well as the ability to plan and prioritize when many issues demand attention simultaneously, are also crucial.

Key Facts about Construction Managers

• Education level: Bachelor’s or master’s degree (3–5 years)
• Work environment: Combined office and field environment
• Demand: Moderate, but increasing over 5 years
• Typical employment: Project-based or permanent position with consulting firms/public sector
• Special skills: Project management, occupational health and safety, digital tools

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a construction manager, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, site manager, or specialist in estimation, quality, or occupational health and safety, or to work as a consultant on larger projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for engineers and technicians in construction and civil engineering, the job prospects are moderate today but are expected to increase over the next five years. This development is driven by increased demand for technical expertise, digitalization, and sustainability requirements. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the field, indicating a stable job market for construction managers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Managers

• What is the average salary of a Construction Manager?
  - A construction manager has an average salary of 50 200 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for construction managers?
  - Men earn an average of 51 200 SEK and women 47 300 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a construction manager?
  - Most commonly, a university or civil engineering degree in construction and civil engineering, often combined with certifications and practical experience.
• How is the job market for construction managers?
  - Opportunities are moderate today but are expected to increase over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits for construction managers?
  - Company car, wellness allowance, bonus, extra vacation days, and pension contributions are common benefits.
• Are there regional salary differences for construction managers?
  - Yes, salary levels are often higher in metropolitan regions and areas with major construction projects.
• What career paths are available after a few years as a construction manager?
  - It is common to advance to roles such as project manager, site manager, or specialist in estimation, quality, or occupational health and safety.