A contracts manager in the construction industry manages contracts relating to building projects. They study the legalities of contracts and help to negotiate terms and conditions with clients and third parties, before drawing up legal documents to outline terms of service and project deliverables.
There are several routes to becoming a contracts manager. You could complete a university course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work.
You should explore these routes to becoming a contracts manager, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
To become a contracts manager or a contracts engineer, you could complete a foundation degree, Higher National Diploma (HND) or undergraduate degree in a subject that covers contract law, such as:
You could enrol on a higher or degree apprenticeship in construction management and specialise in contract work once you have qualified.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
If you have some previous experience in quantity surveying or estimating, you may be able to find work as a contracts assistant in a construction company. Your employer may help you to gain the experience and training needed to progress into a role as a contracts manager or a contracts engineer.
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a contracts manager. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Desirable skills and knowledge for a contracts manager include:
To become a contracts manager you could complete a:
To become a contracts manager you could complete a:
To become a contracts manager you could complete a:
As a contracts manager, you’ll be responsible for overseeing important legal documents relating to construction projects and ensuring that any issues which arise are resolved as quickly and effectively as possible.
The duties of a contracts manager may include:
The expected salary for a contracts manager varies as you become more experienced
Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.
* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources
Apprenticeships in England
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Apprenticeships in Wales
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With experience as a contracts manager or contracts engineer, you could move into the role of a facilities manager.
Alternatively, you could apply for chartered status as a contracts manager to improve your salary and career options.