Site manager

Job description

Site managers are responsible for preparing sites prior to the commencement of construction work. This includes setting out the site and organising activities. They plan projects and ensure that they meet agreed specifications budgets, timescales. They are on hand throughout the build to assess progress and solve problems that arise.

Work activities

• Liaising with clients and a variety of professionals, such as surveyors, engineers and architects.
• Supervising contracted staff and meeting with sub-contractors.
• Reporting progress to clients and board members via phone calls, written reports and presentations.
• Problem solving.
• Checking and preparing site reports, drawings and designs.
• Using specialist construction management computer software.
• Making safety inspections and ensuring site procedures uphold construction and site regulations.

Work conditions

Travel: is sometimes necessary to meet with clients and sub-contractors.
Working hours: evening and weekend hours can be expected around deadlines.
Location: some major construction companies are undertaking projects throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland; some companies offer the chance to work on projects based overseas.

Typical employers

• Civil engineering companies.
• Building companies.
• Construction companies.
• Contractors.

Entry requirements

An appropriate degree in construction/building management, engineering, construction engineering management or civil/structural engineering is required. Experience of the working environment is necessary for management positions.

To gain chartered status the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) criteria must be met. Novus Ireland Initiative is a new branch of the CIOB which supports new CIOB members in achieving chartered status. Chartered engineer status is obtained through meeting the criteria of Engineers Ireland.