Construction Manager in Jackson, WY

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

As a career analyst who’s watched the construction market in Jackson for over a decade, I can tell you the salary picture here is a tale of two economies: the hyper-local residential and commercial market, and the high-end, nationally competitive resort and luxury development sector. For a Construction Manager, this means your earning potential is directly tied to the type of projects you pursue.

Let's start with the hard numbers. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local industry surveys, the median salary for a Construction Manager in Jackson, WY is $107,236/year. This translates to an hourly rate of $107,236 / 2,080 hours = $51.56/hour. This figure is slightly below the national average of $108,210/year, a critical point to understand. While the national average is a broad benchmark, Jackson's cost of living index of 97.0 (slightly below the U.S. average of 100) helps that salary stretch a bit further than it would in a major metro.

However, the local market is tight. There are only 21 jobs for Construction Managers in the metro area at any given time. This scarcity means employers are often competing for experienced talent, which can push salaries above the median for those with the right skills. The 10-year job growth projection for this region is 8%, which is moderate but stable, reflecting the consistent demand for high-quality construction in a destination community.

To give you a clearer sense of where you might fall, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These figures are based on aggregated local job postings and industry network discussions.

Experience Level	Typical Years in Field	Estimated Annual Salary Range (Jackson)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-5 years	$75,000 - $95,000	Assistant PM, site supervision, sub-contractor coordination, project documentation.
Mid-Level	5-10 years	$95,000 - $130,000	Full project management, budgeting, bid preparation, client liaison, quality control.
Senior-Level	10-15+ years	$130,000 - $180,000+	Complex project oversight, business development, high-end client management, multi-project leadership.
Expert/Principal	15+ years	$180,000 - $250,000+	Firm leadership, major contract negotiation, market strategy, exclusive client portfolios.

Comparison to Other Wyoming Cities: How does Jackson stack up? In Cheyenne, the state capital, the median salary for Construction Managers is slightly lower, around $103,500, but the job market is larger and more diversified. In Casper, a hub for energy and industrial construction, the median is closer to $105,000. Jackson's premium is not necessarily in base salary but in the project value and specialty. A Construction Manager in Jackson might oversee a $5 million luxury home, while a counterpart in Cheyenne might manage a $20 million municipal building. The scale and budget per project are different, which can influence bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.

Insider Tip: The most significant salary jumps in Jackson come from specializing in high-performance, sustainable, or historic preservation projects. The local market has a strong appetite for "Mountain Modern" architecture and LEED-certified commercial spaces. Demonstrating expertise in these areas can put you in the top 25% of earners.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is just a number until you see what’s left for housing, groceries, and life. Let’s break down the monthly budget for a Construction Manager earning the median salary of $107,236.

Assumptions:

• Gross Annual Salary: $107,236
• Estimated Tax Burden (Federal, State, FICA): ~28% (a conservative estimate for this bracket in Wyoming)
• Average 1BR Rent: $921/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

Category	Calculation	Monthly Amount
Gross Monthly Income	$107,236 / 12	$8,936
Estimated Taxes & Deductions	28% of Gross	-$2,502
Net Monthly Income		$6,434
Rent (1BR Apartment)		-$921
Remaining for Expenses		$5,513

Can They Afford to Buy a Home? This is the million-dollar question in Jackson. The median single-family home price in Jackson is well over $1.2 million, with many properties in the $2-5 million range. For a Construction Manager earning $107,236, purchasing a home in Jackson proper is, frankly, not feasible without a significant down payment or dual income. The mortgage on a $1.2 million home with 20% down ($240,000) would be approximately $5,500-$6,000/month, which is nearly the entire net income.

However, the surrounding areas of Teton County—like Kelly, Moran, or even parts of Wilson—offer more attainable options, though prices are still high. A more realistic path for a single-income earning the median is to rent initially and explore home buying in the "Gateway" communities like Dubois (80 miles away) or consider a condo/townhome within Jackson. The average 1BR rent of $921 is a critical data point; it means housing, while expensive relative to income, isn't the budget-killer it is in cities like San Francisco or New York, allowing for more savings potential if you can find housing.

Insider Tip: Many construction professionals in Jackson eventually partner or marry into a dual-income household, which is the most common path to homeownership in the area. Building a strong network can also lead to off-market deals or partnerships.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

The construction market in Jackson is not driven by large industrial plants but by a mix of luxury developers, boutique design-build firms, and public entities. Here are the key players you need to know:

1. Teton County School District #1: The single largest public employer. They are in a perpetual state of campus expansions, renovations, and new construction (like the recent high school addition). Projects are publicly bid, stable, and require managers with strong public works and scheduling experience. Hiring trends are steady, tied to enrollment growth and bond measures.
2. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) & The Town of Jackson: JHMR is constantly upgrading base area facilities, ski lifts, and on-mountain infrastructure. The Town manages public works projects, parks, and affordable housing initiatives. These employers offer stability and benefits but often require experience with complex logistics (building in a ski resort environment) and public sector procurement.
3. Luxury Development Firms (e.g., The Clear Creek Group, Rendezvous Mountain): These private firms manage high-end residential and commercial projects for affluent clients. They are the primary drivers of the $180,000+ salary bracket. Hiring is highly selective, often based on reputation and portfolio. They tend to hire through networks rather than public postings.
4. Design-Build Contractors (e.g., Shaw Construction, The Beck Group): These firms handle both design and construction, offering a streamlined process for clients. They work on a mix of commercial (hotels, restaurants) and large residential projects. They seek managers who can bridge the gap between design intent and on-site execution. Hiring is active, especially for those with Revit and BIM software skills.
5. Non-Profit Housing Organizations (e.g., Habitat for Humanity of Teton Valley): While smaller, these organizations are critical in addressing Jackson's housing crisis. They provide opportunities for Construction Managers passionate about community impact. Salaries are typically lower ($80,000 - $100,000), but the work is deeply rewarding.
6. Federal & State Agencies (National Park Service, Wyoming Department of Transportation): Projects in Grand Teton National Park and along US-26/89/191 require specialized construction management. These roles are less frequent but offer excellent benefits and a focus on environmental compliance and public safety.

Hiring Trends: The market is skewing toward managers with technology fluency (Procore, PlanGrid, BIM 360) and sustainability expertise. There's also a growing need for managers experienced in remote site logistics—getting materials and crews to job sites that may be an hour from town, with no cell service.

Getting Licensed in WY

Wyoming does not have a state-specific "Construction Manager" license. However, to legally practice and bid on public projects, you will need relevant professional licenses. The most common path is through the Wyoming Board of Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors (WBPEPLS).

State-Specific Requirements:

• Professional Engineer (PE) License: This is the gold standard for Construction Managers who want to stamp drawings or lead public projects. It requires:
  • An ABET-accredited engineering degree.
  • Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
  • 4 years of progressive engineering experience under a licensed PE.
  • Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
• Costs: Exam fees are ~$400-$600 per exam. Application fees are ~$200. Continuing education is required for renewal.
• Alternative Path: For those without an engineering degree, certification from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) is highly respected. The Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential requires a combination of education and experience (4-8 years) and passing an exam. This is often sufficient for private-sector roles.

Timeline to Get Started:

• If you have a PE: The process is simply to apply for comity (reciprocity) with the Wyoming board. This can take 2-4 months.
• If you are pursuing a PE: You are looking at a 4-5 year timeline from start to licensure.
• If you are pursuing a CMAA CCM: You can apply immediately if you meet the experience requirements. The exam can be scheduled within a few months of application.

Insider Tip: While a PE is not always required for residential construction, it is a major differentiator for commercial and public work. Many local firms will sponsor your PE licensure if you commit to them long-term.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Living in Jackson requires balancing commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a practical look at your options.

Neighborhood/Area	Typical 1BR Rent Estimate	Commute to Town Center	Lifestyle & Vibe
Jackson Town Center	$1,100 - $1,500	Walk/Bike	Urban, walkable, noisy. Close to bars, restaurants, and the action. Best for those who want to be in the heart of it.
East Jackson / Rafter J	$950 - $1,200	10-15 min drive	Family-friendly, quieter. Mix of older homes and new developments. Good access to schools and the hospital.
Wilson / Teton Pines	$1,200 - $1,600	20-25 min drive	Upscale, suburban. Popular with professionals and families. Close to the ski resort for year-round recreation.
Kelly / Moran	$800 - $1,100	30-45 min drive	Rural, remote, stunning scenery. Much more affordable but isolated. Requires reliable vehicle and self-sufficiency.
Aspen Hills / South Park	$900 - $1,250	15-20 min drive	Gentrifying area, mix of older and newer homes. Good value, but check cell service and internet reliability.

Insider Tip: If you work for a firm based in Jackson, living in Wilson offers a better quality of life with more space, but you'll battle the infamous "Village traffic" during peak winter and summer seasons. For true affordability and a short commute, East Jackson is the sweet spot for many early-career professionals.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Jackson, career growth isn't just about climbing a corporate ladder; it's about building a reputation and specializing in a niche.

Specialty Premiums:

• Historic Preservation: Projects in the Town Square historic district require specialized knowledge. This niche can add a 10-15% premium to your salary.
• Sustainable/Net-Zero Construction: With a community focused on environmental stewardship, expertise in passive house design or renewable energy integration is highly valued and can open doors to the most desirable projects.
• Heavy Equipment & Remote Site Logistics: Managing projects in Grand Teton National Park or on remote ranches is a unique skill set. This experience is rare and commands a significant premium.

Advancement Paths:
The typical path is:

1. Assistant PM (Entry) -> Project Manager (Mid) -> Senior PM / Project Executive (Senior) -> Firm Owner / Principal (Expert).
   Many of the successful senior managers in Jackson eventually start their own boutique design-build firms, leveraging their local network. The 8% job growth over 10 years supports this entrepreneurial path.

10-Year Outlook: The demand for high-end, sustainable construction will remain strong. The biggest challenge will be the availability of skilled labor, not just management. Construction Managers who can effectively lead and retain a skilled crew will be invaluable. Climate and environmental regulations will also become a larger factor, requiring managers to stay ahead of new codes and materials.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Unparalleled access to outdoor recreation (hiking, skiing, fishing).	Extremely high cost of living, especially for housing and food.
High-value projects that can build a standout portfolio.	Very small, insular professional network; reputation is everything.
Strong community and a sense of place.	Limited job market (only 21 jobs). One bad employer can close many doors.
No state income tax in Wyoming.	Harsh winters and isolation; can be difficult for families or those used to city amenities.
Median salary ($107,236) is strong relative to the local cost of living (97.0).	The national salary average ($108,210) is often higher in less expensive markets.

Final Recommendation: Jackson is an exceptional place for a Construction Manager who is adventurous, self-reliant, and passionate about building in a stunning natural environment. It is not a place for those seeking a conventional corporate career or who are financially risk-averse. The path to success here is through specialization, networking, and embracing the unique challenges of the mountain West. If you can secure a senior role or are willing to start in a mid-level position and climb, the quality of life and professional satisfaction can be unmatched.

FAQs

Q: Is it true that most construction jobs in Jackson are seasonal?
A: For laborers, yes. For Construction Managers, roles are year-round. While weather can pause exterior work, the planning, bidding, and interior work continue. The key is securing a position with a firm that has a backlog of projects spanning all seasons.

Q: How competitive is the job market with only 21 openings?
A: Very competitive for the best roles, but that's where your network comes in. Many of the best jobs are never posted publicly. Attending local AIA (American Institute of Architects) or AGC (Associated General Contractors) chapter meetings is essential.

Q: Can I commute from a nearby town like Driggs, ID to save on housing?
A: Yes, many do. The commute from Driggs (about 45 mins) is manageable, but you must factor in the cost of gas and vehicle wear. The time change (Idaho is on Mountain Time year-round) is not an issue. This is a common strategy for those not yet established in Jackson.

Q: What is the single biggest challenge for a new Construction Manager in Jackson?
A: Logistics and supply chain. Getting materials in a timely manner is difficult, especially during peak tourist seasons. Building strong relationships with local suppliers and having a robust plan B and C is non-negotiable.

Q: Is a PE license worth the investment in Jackson?
A: Absolutely, if you aim to work in the public or large commercial sector. For residential work, it's less critical but still a major advantage for credibility and salary negotiation. It is the clearest signal of your expertise to clients and employers.