Construction careers can be hugely fulfilling. You’ll be able to secure steady, well-paid work, all while helping to create buildings and other structures of value. On the surface, project and site managers can seem like they have a similar role – it can be difficult to choose which path to pursue. But there are slight differences that should factor into your decision. Below, we explore the two roles and their salary differences.
The role of the site manager
The role of site manager is a wide-ranging job that encompasses many different duties. You’ll be overseeing the work site and ensuring that the different projects make technical sense while upholding strict construction and safety guidelines. As such, the site manager will be managing operations across the site each and every day. This varied role will see you working with architects, surveyors, and builders to ensure that everything is meeting regulations and that the project will finish on time. Site managers will often prepare the site, make labour hires, and install all the necessary facilities. Usually, they’ll report to the project manager.
The role of the project manager
The project manager, on the other hand, is responsible for a much broader range of tasks from before the construction site is even assembled – they are part of the process from start to finish. They’ll begin by looking at site selection, design and planning before moving on to procurement, marketing, compliance and the financials of the project. As such, they’re responsible for the entire success of the project, whereas the site manager needs to just ensure the success of the construction process. This means that the project manager will be a bridge toward the key stakeholders in the project and they’ll be accountable for the success and failure of the entire process.
Salary differences
There are salary differences between the two roles, as you’d expect given the different responsibilities required. As the project manager has a broader, more important workload they’ll usually earn more than most site managers. However, working as a site manager is still a well-paid role with plenty of scope for career development. Indeed, construction site managers earn around £35,000 to £43,000 depending on their location and the size of the site they’re responsible for. In fact, many site managers have the scope to progress toward working as a project manager given the similarities between the two roles.
If you’re interested in a career in construction, then becoming a site manager or a project manager will likely be near the top of your list of considerations. And by following the guide above, you should be all set to choose the right career path for yourself.