Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Project managers
In a construction environment, experience is often more highly regarded than paper
qualifications. Routes are available for site and office personnel to join professional
institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Building without having studied at a
university; this is via the experienced practitioners' routes to membership (MCIOB).
Graduate entry is also available after a minimum of three years' experience. Project
managers often earn their positions by proof of efficient management on similar
value projects. The development of team building is essential for their success in
managing projects. Good project managers create construction teams that they
carry from one contract to another.
Site managers
Site managers and assistant site managers often have a trade background. “New” site
managers with a degree background are usually placed on an in-company training
programme. The training programme usually covers a three-year period, after which
the manager can apply for MCIOB status (Chartered Building Status).
Site engineers
Many site managers commence their site experience as a site engineer. Background
study courses often include an HNC/HND qualification. On completion of a two- or
three-year training period, promotion to assistant site manager would be consid-
ered the norm.
Project planning engineer
In the role of assistant site manager or site manager, experience is gained in prepar-
ing programmes, monitoring progress and writing report. The introduction of com-
puter software based on linked bar charts has revolutionised planning and
programming at site level. A manager showing a flair for developing programming
skills may ultimately result in the person becoming a planning engineer. An under-
standing of construction sequences is an essential requirement.
We will now look at the roles and responsibilities of the various levels of
management.
1.7 The project manager
Knowledge requirements
●
To be familiar with company procedures
●
To be familiar with all aspects of the construction process in respect to the man-
agement of a project
●
To understand the key requirements of the project: planning, controlling and
reporting to the contract operations/contracts manager
