In a typical work setting, construction managers:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a high level of social contact. They work with owners, trade contractors, architects, and other design professionals.
• Are responsible for work outcomes and the results of other workers.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of others.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations in which workers or clients may be unpleasant, angry, or rude.
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• Work as part of a team. This is very important because they lead different types of work teams.
• Communicate with clients, employees, and contractors everyday by telephone, e-mail, and in person.
• Write letters and memos weekly.

Physical Work Conditions

• Sometimes work indoors in an office, or outdoors at a construction site.
• Are often exposed to sounds and noise levels, such as from earth-moving equipment, that are distracting and uncomfortable.
• Wear protective equipment often, such as hard hats, when touring a construction site.
• Are sometimes exposed to hot or cold temperatures, depending on the weather.
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• Are sometimes exposed to hazardous equipment.
• Work somewhat close to other people, such as when sharing office space.
• Often work in buildings without heating or air conditioning, such as portable trailers or unfinished structures.
• Regularly visit job sites in a car and truck. They often use the vehicle as a traveling office.

Work Performance

• Are highly accurate in performing their job. This is very important because they maintain the schedule and budget for the construction project. Errors may have serious financial and safety consequences.
• Often repeat the same mental activities. This is somewhat important when creating budgets and writing reports.
• Make decisions everyday that affect workers on the job site and the final outcome of the project they are working on.
• Work in a highly competitive environment in which their company's reputation is often at stake.
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• Must meet strict deadlines weekly.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision or setting tasks and goals.

Hours/Travel

• Work more than 40 hours per week.
• May work nights and weekends. Construction may sometimes continue around the clock to meet deadlines.
• Must be “on-call,” often 24 hours a day.
• May travel to different job sites, or live temporarily at job sites away from home.