How to Write a Cover Letter for a Construction Management Job

A construction manager using his phone at a construction site

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Given the high costs and investment risks inherent to the construction industry, employers seek the most experienced, credentialed construction managers they can find. So, when applying for a job in construction management, your cover letter should include mention of previous projects, along with any certifications or education you have received.

If, however, you are applying for your first construction management position, you should highlight your leadership, communication, and project management skills on the cover letter to garner the employer’s interest. It also doesn’t hurt to play the networking card and drop names of contacts you may share in common with the employer (but only if you know that this contact would say positive things about you if asked).

A Cover Letter Example for Those With Experience

The following is an example of a cover letter for a construction management job designed for a candidate with experience. Use this cover letter as a guide, but remember to adjust the details to fit your situation and the specific position you are applying for.

Here is an example of a cover letter for a construction manager. Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or read below for more information.

© The Balance 2018

Construction Manager Cover Letter (Text Version)

Edith Applicant
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-555-5555
edith.applicant@email.com

Date

Aubrey Lee
Director, Human Resources
Acme Construction
123 Business Rd.
Business City, NY 54321

From the first day, I began managing custom home construction projects seven years ago, I have consistently realized my objective of bringing every single project in on time and under budget. However, I have never believed that meeting those criteria alone was good enough.

If you agree that well-managed projects should exceed customers' expectations regarding quality and service, we should talk.

To help you learn more about my track record, I have enclosed my resume. While it illustrates my experience and training, what it cannot communicate is my dedication to my craft. My professional creed and contributions include:

  • Pride in the quality of my work, and a willingness to personally perform even the most menial tasks to remove project obstacles and get the job done.
  • Success in the on-time, quality completion of 75+ new homes in XYZ City’s Sunnyside, Edgemoor, and Rolling Hills, and Berkeley neighborhoods since 20-- (portfolio available upon request).
  • Ability to envision how specific parts of the house should look and flow, and to communicate those ideas to architects, designers, and upper management, always with positive results.
  • Expertise in blueprint assessment and collaborating with architects throughout the course of a job to point out oversights that would unnecessarily consume the client's time and money.
  • Skilled in building lasting relationships with homeowners, who frequently request project advice. Willing to provide this advice at no charge in the interest of customer goodwill when necessary.
  • Excellent skills in guiding, motivating, training, and mentoring other carpenters.

Based on my experience and a strong commitment to my craft, I know I will add significant value to your team. I look forward to discussing my capabilities in more detail and am available for a personal interview at your convenience.

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Your Name

Cover Letter Example for Entry Level Applicants

If you do not have actual long-term experience as a Construction Manager, your cover letter can nonetheless be quite effective if it displays your training and related construction experience. Here’s an example.

Company Name
Company Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear Hiring Manager,

It was with much interest that I learned that Johnsonville Construction is seeking a Construction Manager.

Over the course of the past eight years, I have advanced from my initial role as a general laborer to become a carpenter and foreman for ABC Residential Construction. My supervisor, Construction Manager Joe Smith, will attest to my attention to detail and quality, cost consciousness, and readiness to assume the responsibilities of a Construction Manager.

A few of my qualifications for this position include:

  • 8 years’ residential home construction experience, with the proven ability to interpret blueprints and ensure that all tasks are performed on time and below budget.
  • The recent completion of my B.S. in Construction Management from Hometown College.
  • Proven ability to collaborate with project subcontractors to keep all project phases on schedule.
  • Strong leadership skills, motivating team members through personal dedication to quality, constructive dialogue, and an uncompromised work ethic.

Confident that I am ready to assume the responsibilities of a Construction Manager, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications for this position in more detail. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Your Name

How to Send an Email Cover Letter

If you're sending a cover letter via email, list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message. You should include your contact information in your email signature, but you don’t need to list the employer's contact information. Remember to start your email message with the appropriate salutation.