Construction Management vs Civil Engineering: Which Career is Right For You?

When considering a career in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, two popular options are construction management and civil engineering. Both play a vital role in the building and infrastructure development process. But there are some key differences between the two that those exploring these career paths should understand.

This article provides an in-depth look at construction management vs civil engineering. It examines the roles, responsibilities, education requirements, salaries, and job outlook for each field. Read on to gain clarity on which career aligns best with your interests and aspirations.

What is Construction Management?

Construction management focuses on the practical execution and oversight of construction projects. Construction managers are responsible for planning budgeting, and coordinating all aspects of a build.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing and scheduling on-site construction operations
• Procuring necessary materials, equipment and labor
• Overseeing quality control and safety
• Controlling construction budgets and schedules
• Coordinating communications and logistics between all parties involved

Construction managers often serve as the point person between the client, design team, and construction contractors. They must be adept multi-taskers who can balance technical expertise with strong leadership and communication abilities.

Education and Training

Most construction manager positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in construction management, construction science, or civil engineering Many schools offer master’s programs related to construction as well

Gaining practical experience through internships or co-ops while in school is highly valued. Significant on-the-job training is also essential for advancement in this fast-paced field. Professional certifications such as Certified Construction Manager (CCM) can enhance career prospects.

What is Civil Engineering?

Civil engineers plan, design, and oversee the construction of infrastructure projects. They apply engineering principles to create functional and sustainable public works.

Key Responsibilities

• Performing site evaluations and analysis for new projects
• Designing and calculating specs for infrastructure like roads, bridges, dams
• Ensuring designs meet regulations and environmental standards
• Managing or coordinating project execution phases
• Conducting inspections and maintenance on existing infrastructure

Civil engineers often work closely with architects, urban planners, and environmental scientists to develop comprehensive infrastructure designs and systems.

Education and Training

Becoming a licensed civil engineer requires a minimum of bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or civil engineering technology from an ABET-accredited program. Following this, civil engineers must gain professional experience and pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam to gain licensure.

Many civil engineers pursue a master’s degree to advance their expertise. Continuing education and professional development help civil engineers stay up-to-date on evolving technologies and best practices.

Key Differences Between the Fields

While both play crucial roles in the construction process, there are some notable differences between construction management and civil engineering:

• Focus: Construction management focuses on project execution – building the design. Civil engineering focuses on project design – creating the plans.

• Responsibilities: Construction managers oversee practical on-site build tasks like scheduling, quality control, contractor relations. Civil engineers handle technical design duties like site analysis, materials selection, specification calculations.

• Project Phase Involvement: Construction managers are most active during the active construction phase. Civil engineers are heavily involved in the upfront planning and design phases.

• Skills: Construction managers need strong business acumen, management skills, multitasking abilities. Civil engineers require technical competencies in engineering principles, design, and analytical thinking.

• Education: Construction managers come from construction management or civil engineering backgrounds. Licensed civil engineers must complete an accredited engineering program.

• Work Setting: Construction managers primarily work on job sites alongside contractors. Civil engineers split time between offices and construction sites.

Career Comparison

Looking at salaries, job outlooks, and other key factors can help determine which career may be a better professional fit.

Salaries

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), average salaries are:

• Construction Managers: $95,260 per year

• Civil Engineers: $88,570 per year

Salaries can vary significantly based on location, experience level, industries, and other factors. Both offer relatively high earning potential within the construction sector.

Job Outlook and Growth

The BLS predicts solid growth in both construction management and civil engineering fields:

• Construction Management: 8% growth between 2019-2029

• Civil Engineering: 8% growth between 2019-2029

Steady infrastructure development and increased complexity of construction projects will drive demand for both occupations. Civil engineers may see added opportunities from growing interest in sustainable design practices.

Work Environment

• Construction managers split time between office administrative work and on-site field work alongside contractors. The job usually involves high-pressure, fast-paced environments with irregular hours to meet project deadlines.

• Civil engineers may consult with architects in offices during design phases but also must make site visits to assess conditions and oversee construction progresses. Their schedule is often more regular than construction managers.

Which Career is Right For You?

There is significant overlap between construction management and civil engineering when it comes to the construction process. But there are also key differences in focus, responsibilities, and work settings. So which is a better fit depends on your individual strengths, interests, and professional goals.

Best Fit for Construction Management Careers

Construction management is an ideal path if you:

• Enjoy hands-on, active work environments
• Have strong business intuition and management skills
• Are detail-oriented with excellent multitasking abilities
• Thrive under pressure and fast-paced timelines
• Possess strong leadership and communication skills
• Are interested in practial project execution over design

Best Fit for Civil Engineering Careers

Civil engineering is a great choice if you:

• Excel in math, science, and analytical thinking
• Are curious about how things work and enjoy solving problems
• Have a strong interest in the design elements of infrastructure
• Prefer technical, desk-focused work over active field work
• Enjoy applying engineering principles and physics
• Are interested in innovating sustainable design solutions

Ready to Build Your Career?

Both construction management and civil engineering offer exciting, high-demand careers for those eager to make their mark on the built environment. Your personal interests and strengths will determine whether the hands-on, project management world of construction management or the technical design focus of civil engineering is the best path forward.

Whichever direction you take, a rewarding future awaits building innovative, sustainable infrastructure that enhances how we live, work, and play. The world needs skilled professionals in both construction management and civil engineering now more than ever. Are you ready to start your journey?