Are you ready to bring your construction project manager resume to the next level? Your application papers are the first impression you make on potential employers, and having well-crafted documents is crucial in landing your dream job.

Measure twice, cut once, swear silently.

Tim "Level" Johnson

In this article, we will provide you with successful construction project manager resume examples and valuable writing tips to help you stand out. From highlighting your experience and skills to showcasing your achievements, we've got you covered.

So, keep reading for expert advice on how to create a winning resume for a construction project manager position.

Construction project manager resume examples

Sample resume for construction project manager

Sample resume for construction project manager
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Construction project manager resume example

Professional Summary

Dedicated construction project manager with over 8 years of experience overseeing the successful planning and execution of commercial and residential construction projects. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, managing project budgets, and fostering strong client relationships.

Professional Experience

Construction Project Manager

Summit Builders Inc, Concepcion, TX

September 2020 - Present

  • Successfully manage a portfolio of commercial construction projects, ranging from office complexes to retail spaces, ensuring completion within budget and on schedule.
  • Lead cross-functional teams, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, fostering collaboration and communication throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Implement cost-effective strategies, resulting in a consistent 15% reduction in project costs through efficient resource allocation and negotiations with suppliers.
  • Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols, resulting in zero workplace accidents on all projects under management.

Senior Project Coordinator

Horizon Construction Solutions, Concepcion, TX

May 2016 - August 2020

  • Assisted in the coordination and execution of large-scale infrastructure projects, contributing to project planning, scheduling, and budget management.
  • Managed project documentation, contracts, and permits, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
  • Conducted site inspections to monitor project progress, quality, and safety standards.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Architecture

Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL

Graduated: May 2016

Certifications

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Institute (PMI), 2022

Skills

  • Project Management;
  • Construction Planning;
  • Budgeting and Cost Control;
  • Team Leadership;
  • Risk Management;
  • Scheduling (Microsoft Project, Primavera P6);
  • Quality Control;
  • Contract Administration;
  • Client Relationship Management;
  • Safety Compliance;
  • Building Codes and Regulations.

Writing tips

In order to effectively market yourself as a leader in construction project management, your resume must be concise and to the point, highlighting your key skills, achievements, and qualifications.

Here are some recommendations to help your resume stand out:

  1. Your language should be professional, yet easy to understand. Write in a conversational tone, avoiding overly formal or robotic language.
  2. Describe yourself and your accomplishments with active verbs and steer clear of repeating words or phrases.
  3. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. For example, mention the number of projects managed, their budgets, and completion times.
  4. Incorporate industry-specific keywords throughout your resume, ensuring it aligns with the language used in the construction project management field.
  5. Customize your construction project manager resume for each job application, aligning your experience and skills with the specific requirements of the position.

Examples of words and phrases that you can include in your resume for construction project manager:

  • Managed. This term highlights your aptitude for taking control and guiding a team.

Example: Managed a team of 10 construction workers to complete a $5 million project on time and within budget.

  • Oversaw. Similar to "managed," but with a more hands-on approach.

Example: Oversaw the entire construction process from planning to completion, ensuring quality workmanship and adherence to safety standards.

  • Coordinated. This phrase highlights your competence in functioning effectively within a team.

Example: Coordinated with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure seamless execution of project plans.

  • Budgeted. This term showcases your proficiency in financial management.

Example: Successfully budgeted and allocated resources for multiple projects, resulting in cost savings of over 15%.

  • Implemented. This word shows your ability to turn plans into action.

Example: Implemented advanced project management technology, leading to improved productivity and enhanced collaboration among team members.

  • Resolved. This word demonstrates your problem-solving abilities.

Example: Fostered strong connections with clients and stakeholders while resolving conflicts and issues on site.

  • Streamlined. This term emphasizes your efficiency and productivity.

Example: Streamlined processes by implementing standardized procedures, resulting in a 20% increase in project completion rate.

  • Negotiated. This word showcases your communication and negotiation skills.

Example: Negotiated contracts with vendors, resulting in significant cost savings for the company.

  • Inspected. This term embodies a focus on precision and maintaining high standards.

Example: Inspected work sites daily to ensure compliance with building codes and safety regulations.

  • Analyzed. This term demonstrates your proficiency in gathering and interpreting data.

Example: Analyzed project data and provided regular progress reports to stakeholders, resulting in timely decision-making and issue resolution.

Contact information

When filling in the contact information section for a construction project manager resume, it's essential to provide accurate details. This part serves as the gateway for potential employers to reach out to you for further discussions.

Here's what you should include:

  • Full name. This is typically placed at the top of the resume and should be the most prominent element. Use a slightly larger font size to make it stand out.
  • Desired position. Directly beneath your name, include your professional title. This clarifies your role right away.
  • Phone number. Provide a professional phone number that you can readily be reached at. Make sure your voicemail is professional.
  • Email. Include a professional email address. Avoid using overly casual or outdated addresses.
  • Location. Mention your city and state of residence. Providing a general location can be helpful for local job opportunities.

Experience

When creating a resume for a construction project manager, it is important to list and organize your work experience information. This will not only showcase your qualifications but also help hiring managers see your career advancement and pertinent expertise.

According to Indeed, the average salary for a construction project manager in the United States is $92,963 per year.

Here's how to effectively organize your experience section:

  1. Format. Use a reverse chronological format, listing your most recent experience first. This is the most common and preferred format for resumes.
  2. Job title. Bold the job title to help the reader quickly identify your role in each organization.
  3. Company information. Below the job title, provide the company name you worked for and its location (city and state).
  4. Dates of employment. Include the start and end dates of your employment for each position. If you're still in the role, use "Present" as the end date.
  5. Responsibilities. List your key duties and achievements in each role. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb to convey your contributions effectively.

Example:

Construction Project Manager

Stellar Builders, Inc., Amherst, MA

October 2021 - Present

  • Oversee the planning and execution of residential and commercial construction projects, ensuring on-time completion and adherence to budget constraints.
  • Manage a multidisciplinary team of architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, fostering collaboration and maintaining a focus on project goals.
  • Successfully delivered 10+ projects, ranging from $2M to $15M in budget, within or under the projected timeframe, resulting in a 20% increase in client satisfaction.
  • Implement cost-effective strategies, resulting in a 15% reduction in costs through negotiations with suppliers and efficient resource allocation.

Senior Project Coordinator

Dynamic Construction Solutions, Amherst, MA

May 2017 - October 2021

  • Assisted in coordination and execution of construction projects, specializing in infrastructure and public works.
  • Collaborated with project managers to create detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets.
  • Led a team of project assistants in daily tasks, ensuring smooth project operations.
  • Conducted regular site inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.

Project Engineer

Building Excellence Co., Amherst, MA

April 2015 - May 2017

  • Assisted in the planning of residential construction projects, specializing in high-end custom homes.
  • Conducted site surveys and contributed to the development of project proposals.
  • Managed project documentation, including contracts, permits, and drawings.
  • Collaborated with architects and design teams to ensure project specifications were met.

Education

The education section of a resume should also be listed in chronological order, starting with the most recent degree or certification. This allows potential employers to easily see your educational background and track your progress over the years.

Here's a guide on how to effectively list your education:

  • Format. Place the education section after your experience section, unless you are a recent graduate with limited work experience. In that case, you may consider placing it at the beginning.
  • Degree earned. Specify your degree or a relevant field.
  • Institution name. Provide the name of the institution where you earned your degree. Include the city and state (or country) where the institution is located.
  • Graduation date. Include the date of your graduation. If you haven't graduated yet, use the expected date.
  • Relevant certifications (optional). If you have certifications related to construction or project management, consider listing them in this or a separate section.

Below is an example of how you can list education on your construction project manager resume:

Education

Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

Alfred State SUNY College of Technology, Alfred, NY

Graduated: May 2016

Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), 2021

Skills

Incorporating soft and hard skills into the resume of a construction project manager is essential to showcase the candidate's well-roundedness and ability to balance both technical and interpersonal aspects of the job.

  • Soft skills are the personal attributes that make an individual an effective communicator, collaborator, and leader.
  • Hard skills are the technical abilities and knowledge required for a specific job.

Here's a list of skills for a construction project manager:

Hard skills:

  • Project Management;
  • Construction Planning;
  • Budgeting and Cost Control;
  • Risk Management;
  • Quality Control;
  • Construction Methods;
  • Building Codes and Regulations;
  • AutoCAD/Building Information Modeling (BIM);
  • Safety Compliance.

Soft skills:

  • Team Leadership;
  • Communication;
  • Negotiation;
  • Problem-Solving;
  • Client Relationship Management;
  • Decision-Making;
  • Collaboration;
  • Adaptability;
  • Time Management;
  • Attention to Detail.

Construction project manager resume summary

A resume summary is a brief statement that highlights your key skills, experience, and achievements suitable for the role you are vying for. It serves as an introduction to your resume and gives hiring managers a quick overview of your qualifications.

Tips for writing a great resume summary:

  1. Highlight your key skills and experience. Utilize powerful verbs to depict your abilities and background succinctly. Concentrate on the skills and experiences that pertain to the position you are seeking.
  2. Quantify your achievements. Numbers speak louder than words. If you have achieved specific goals or milestones in previous projects, include them in your summary to show your impact.
  3. Tailor it to the job description. Each job posting will have its own specific requirements and qualifications. Make sure to tailor your summary to match the skills and experience listed in the job description.

Example:

Construction project manager with 15 years of experience leading the successful execution of complex construction projects. Proven track record of successfully managing multi-million dollar projects in the commercial and residential sectors. Proficient in project planning, budget management, and team leadership.

Optional sections

Hobbies

Many people underestimate the importance of including hobbies on their resume. However, this section can provide insight into your personality and interests outside of work.

For instance, if you have a passion for woodworking, it demonstrates your manual dexterity and meticulousness – traits highly sought after in the construction field.

Courses

Continuing education is crucial in any field, but particularly in the ever-evolving world of construction. Adding a "Courses" section to your resume allows you to showcase your commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements.

Languages

As the construction project manager, you may engage with diverse teams and clients from different backgrounds. Including the languages you speak on your resume can showcase your ability to communicate effectively with individuals from various cultures.

Awards

If you have received any awards or recognitions throughout your career, it is necessary to add them to your resume. This section allows you to highlight your accomplishments and showcase your expertise in the construction industry.

Awards such as "Project of the Year" or "Top Construction Manager Award" can impress recruiters and show your potential value to their organization.

References

Having a list of references shows that you are confident in your abilities and have a strong network of professionals who can vouch for you.

Certificates

There are numerous certifications that can strengthen your qualifications and catch the attention of potential employers. Integrating a "Certificates" section into your resume provides an opportunity to showcase your dedication to excellence in the industry.

Ensure that your LinkedIn profile aligns with your resume. A consistent online presence reinforces your professional brand and may be reviewed by employers.

Use a resume builder

Crafting a compelling resume is not only about showcasing your skills and experiences but also about presenting them in a visually appealing and organized manner. Our online resume builder offers ready-made resume templates that can help elevate your professional profile.

Here are some key benefits:

  • Time efficiency. Creating a resume from scratch in Microsoft Word can be time-consuming. This service streamlines the process by providing pre-designed sections and prompts, allowing you to input your information quickly and efficiently.
  • Customization options. The online resume builder allows for customization of colors and layouts. This flexibility enables you to tailor your resume to match your style or align it with specific industry standards.
  • Instant updates. As your career evolves, you may need to update your construction project manager resume. This platform makes it easy to revise and update your information, ensuring that your document is always current.
  • Accessibility. Since the builder is web-based, you can access your resume from any device with an internet connection. This is convenient for making changes on the go or applying for jobs from different locations.

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Construction project manager cover letter

Your cover letter serves as the foundation for creating a favorable impression on potential employers. It is crucial to showcase your skills, experience, and qualifications in a concise and professional manner.

Here are some tips on how to write an effective cover letter for any construction project manager:

  1. Customize for each job application. This shows the employer that you have taken the time to understand the role you are applying for. Read the job description carefully and highlight the key requirements that match your skills and experience.
  2. Start with a strong opening. The opening paragraph should captivate the reader and pique their interest to continue reading. Start with an impressive statement about why you are interested in the position and what makes you qualified for it.
  3. Highlight your relevant skills. In the body of your cover letter, focus on showcasing your applicable qualifications and experience that make you a suitable candidate for the job.
  4. Research the company. The key factor in standing out from other applicants is to demonstrate your knowledge of the company. Mention any recent projects or initiatives the company has undertaken and how you can contribute to their success.
  5. Use a professional tone. Your cover letter should have a professional tone and be free of any grammatical or spelling errors. Avoid using overly formal language, but also steer clear of slang or casual phrases.
  6. Keep it concise. Keep your cover letter concise and direct, as it should be no longer than a single page. Refrain from duplicating details already included in your resume. The goal is to make the employer want to learn more about you in a job interview.

Sample cover letter for construction project manager:

Sample cover letter for construction project manager:
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Example of a good cover letter:

  • Dear Mr. Walter,

    With a background as a seasoned construction project manager and over 9 years of experience managing projects in the commercial construction industry, I am eager to pursue the position at Summit Builders Group.

    Your company's reputation for delivering high-quality projects aligns perfectly with my career goals, and I am confident I can contribute significantly to your team's success.

    In my current position as Manager of Construction Projects at Pinnacle Construction Solutions, I have effectively led numerous projects with budgets exceeding $50 million. I have a consistent history of successfully completing projects within budget and ahead of schedule while upholding high standards of quality and safety.

    I have also been responsible for managing and leading a team of 30 contractors, ensuring effective communication and coordination between all stakeholders.

    With my experience in project coordination, budget control, and team supervision, I am a strong contender for the Construction Project Manager role at Summit Builders Group.

    I am thrilled at the prospect of sharing my expertise with your company's future endeavors, particularly the new commercial development downtown that has piqued my interest.

    I am grateful for your consideration of my application. I anticipate discussing my qualifications further in an interview.

    Sincerely,

    Shirley Vito

Example of a bad cover letter:

  • Dear Hiring Manager,

    I am writing to apply for the construction project manager position at your company. I saw the job posting and think I would be a great fit for the role. I have experience in construction and project management, and I believe I can bring my skills to your team.

    I have worked on several construction projects in the past. I was responsible for managing teams and ensuring that projects were completed on time. I am a hard worker and a team player. I am confident that my skills and experience make me the perfect candidate for this position.

    I have attached my resume for your review. I can't wait to discuss my qualifications in more detail.

Entry-level cover letter for a construction project manager:

Dear Mr. Glancy,

I am writing to convey my interest in the opportunity to serve as a construction project manager for your company. As a recent graduate with a degree in Civil Engineering and strong leadership skills, I am eager to apply my knowledge and passion for construction project management to contribute to your organization's growth.

While I have not directly supervised construction projects in a professional setting, I have gained knowledge and skills through completing multiple internships and coursework in project management.

During my time as an intern at SteelCraft Innovations, I had the opportunity to assist in the planning, budgeting, and scheduling of various construction projects. Through this experience, I have developed strong organizational skills and the ability to effectively communicate with team members and stakeholders.

In addition to my technical skills, I also possess strong leadership qualities. As the president of the Engineering Club at my university, I successfully organized and executed multiple events, working closely with a diverse group of individuals to achieve our goals.

As someone who is new to the construction industry, I understand that it may be challenging for me to compete with candidates who have more experience. However, I believe that my education, skills, and willingness to learn make me ready for this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with the goals of your company.

Sincerely,

Alan Gros

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Proofreading

Being a construction project manager demands meticulousness and effective communication, traits that potential employers are looking for. Hence, it is crucial to review and check for errors in both resume and cover letter before sending them for a job opportunity.

Here are tips on proofreading your application papers:

  • Take a break before proofreading. This will help you approach the document with fresh eyes, making it easier to spot errors.
  • Read your resume aloud. This technique can help you catch grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and typos that you might overlook when reading silently.
  • Check grammar and punctuation. Pay attention to sentence structure, verb tense consistency, and the correct use of commas, periods, and other punctuation marks.
  • Focus on one type of error. For example, check for spelling errors in one round, then focus on grammar in another round.
  • Print and proofread. Reading a physical document often makes it easier to see errors compared to reading on a screen.
  • Get a second opinion. Ask a friend, colleague, or mentor to review your resume. Fresh eyes can catch errors you might have missed.

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Conclusion

In summary, constructing a strong resume with a focus on your experience as a project manager is essential for securing your dream job in the construction industry. Remember to keep your resume concise, utilizing brief sentences and listing key details for easy readability.

With a well-written construction project manager resume, you can show your expertise in overseeing building projects and increase your chances of getting hired. Best of luck on your job search and future career!