How to Become a Construction Manager in Texas (2025)

By Jenelle Anne FloresUpdated Jul 10, 2026

See if you qualify for Construction programs

Answer a few questions in 2 minutes. Free, no commitment.

Construction managers are the force behind every successful build. From planning and budgeting to safety and scheduling, they lead projects from start to finish. If you're looking to become a construction manager in Texas, this guide explains what you need, how to qualify, and how to get certified for top jobs in the state.

Construction programs for you

Southern New Hampshire University

MS Management with concentration in Construction Management

Online

Learn to manage essential project teams
Program accredited by ACBSP

No cost info

Southern New Hampshire University

BS Operations Management with concentration in Logistics and Transportation

Online

Complete your degree at your own pace
24/7 online accessibility

Financial aid (may be available)

Southern New Hampshire University

MBA with concentration in Operations and Supply Chain Management

Online

Can be finished in about 1 year
No GRE/GMAT

No cost info

Key Points

Construction managers oversee budgets, timelines, teams, and compliance for building projects
A bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering is standard in Texas
Certifications like CCM (CMAA) or CPC (AIC) improve job opportunities and salary
Texas construction managers earn about $109,570 per year (BLS, May 2024)
You can work in commercial, public works, residential, or launch your own firm

What is a Construction Manager?

Construction managers plan, coordinate, and supervise the construction process. They ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet building codes. Responsibilities include:

Scheduling project phases
Managing contractors and subcontractors
Coordinating permits and inspections
Tracking costs and resource use
Enforcing safety regulations
Communicating with architects, owners, and stakeholders

The job combines leadership, logistics, and hands-on technical knowledge.

Where Do Construction Managers Work?

Construction managers in Texas work in a wide range of industries:

Construction companies: Residential, commercial, and industrial projects
Engineering and architecture firms: Oversee design-build construction
Government agencies: Manage public infrastructure like highways, airports, and schools
Real estate developers: Lead from site planning through project delivery
Freelance or consultant roles: Manage multiple projects for various clients

Requirements to Become a Construction Manager in Texas

Here’s what you’ll typically need to start your career as a construction manager in Texas.

Education

A bachelor’s degree in construction management, architecture, civil engineering, or a related field is highly recommended
Some employers may accept extensive field experience instead of a degree, but formal education is preferred for certification and advancement

Work Experience

Expect to gain at least 3–5 years of construction experience in roles like assistant project manager, estimator, or superintendent
Experience managing budgets, contracts, or crews is essential for certification and hiring

Certification Eligibility

While not legally required in Texas, certification significantly boosts your credibility and salary potential. The two most respected credentials are:

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) – CMAA

8 years total construction/design experience
At least 4 years in a Responsible-in-Charge (RIC) leadership role
A bachelor’s degree can count toward 4 years of the requirement
Must submit 2 professional references
Eligible to sit for the CCM exam after approval

Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) – AIC

Must already hold the Associate Constructor (AC) credential
At least 8 years of verified, professional-level construction experience
Includes supervisory and project coordination responsibility
Must submit project history and references to AIC
Eligible to sit for the CPC exam after application approval

How to Become a Construction Manager in Texas

Step 1: Earn your degree

Most construction managers start with a bachelor’s degree from a Texas university or accredited program. Coursework typically includes construction law, project management, cost estimating, contracts, and safety.

Step 2: Build industry experience

Start in entry-level roles such as field engineer, estimator, or assistant project manager. Learn how construction sites operate and gain exposure to budgeting, scheduling, and subcontractor coordination.

Step 3: Get certified (strongly recommended)

Here’s how to apply for each certification.

CCM Certification Process – CMAA

Confirm eligibility: Meet experience and education requirements
Apply online at CMAA with project documentation and references
Pay the application and exam fees
Schedule and take the exam

180 multiple-choice questions
Covers 10 domains: cost, time, contracts, safety, quality, and leadership

Receive credential upon passing

More info: cmaanet.org/certification

CPC Certification Process – AIC

Hold AC credential
Complete 8 years of experience and submit work history
Apply to AIC for CPC candidacy
Pay fees and schedule exam

4-hour, 125-question multiple-choice test
Covers project management, safety, legal issues, and ethics

Receive CPC designation upon passing

More info: aic-builds.org/certifications/cpc-level-two

Step 4: Apply for jobs

Use job boards like MyNextMove, Indeed, and LinkedIn. Tailor your resume to highlight:

Certification(s) earned
Leadership roles in past projects
Experience with project budgets, safety protocols, or design coordination
Construction-specific software or scheduling tools you’ve used

Step 5: Renew certifications and grow your career

Both CCM and CPC require regular renewal to stay active.

CCM Recertification – CMAA

Renewal required every 3 years
Submit continuing education credits
Complete a professional conduct and ethics form
Pay recertification fee

Failing to recertify results in expiration, requiring reapplication or re-examination.

CPC Recertification – AIC

Renewal required every 2 years
Submit a renewal form and record of professional development hours (PDHs)
Must stay in compliance with the AIC Code of Ethics
Pay recertification fee

Missing the renewal deadline may result in inactive status or credential suspension.

More info: aic-builds.org/certifications/recertification

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Construction Manager

Becoming a Construction Manager opens up various career paths and opportunities within the construction industry. Here are some potential directions you can take:

Project Manager: Overseeing budgets, timelines, and resources for complex projects.
Construction Consultant: Advising on project planning, risk management, and contracts.
Estimator: Analyzing costs and materials for bidding projects.
Superintendent: Managing daily on-site operations and ensuring safety compliance.
Facilities Manager: Overseeing building maintenance and operational efficiency.
Entrepreneur: Starting your own construction business and managing client projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do construction managers make in Texas? Construction managers in Texas earn about $109,570 per year or $52.68 per hour, according to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024).

What do you need to be a construction manager? You typically need a bachelor's degree in construction management or engineering, 3–5 years of experience, and a certification like CCM or CPC to qualify for top roles.

Does Texas State offer a construction management degree? Yes. Texas State University and other schools like Texas A&M and UT Arlington offer accredited construction management or construction science degree programs.

Is being a construction manager hard? Yes, it can be demanding. You'll handle tight deadlines, team coordination, budgets, and safety. But it’s highly rewarding for those who enjoy leadership and fast-paced projects. Let me know if you'd like this reintegrated into your final blog or exported in a specific format (Markdown, Google Docs, etc). It's optimized and ready for publication.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a construction manager in Texas combines technical knowledge, real-world experience, and leadership. With salaries topping $100K and opportunities in every part of the state, this is a high-reward career path for motivated professionals.

Whether you choose CCM or CPC, certification helps you stand out and unlocks senior-level roles. Ready to begin? Dreambound helps you compare construction management programs near you.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles: