Construction Manager in Lehi, UT

The Salary Picture: Where Lehi Stands

As a local, I can tell you that the construction market in Lehi is uniquely positioned. It’s not a sleepy suburb anymore; it’s a high-growth tech corridor with a serious demand for infrastructure. For a Construction Manager, this means your skills are in high demand, but the local salary reflects a market that’s still catching up to its explosive growth.

Let's get straight to the numbers. The median salary for a Construction Manager in Lehi is $106,586/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $51.24/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $108,210/year, a common trend in growing markets where cost of living initially outpaces wage adjustments. However, with 180 jobs currently listed in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 8%, the long-term outlook is stable and positive. This isn't a boom-and-bust market; it's a sustained expansion driven by residential, commercial, and data center construction.

To understand where you fit, here’s a typical experience-level breakdown for the region. Keep in mind, "Entry-Level" in Lehi often requires some field experience due to the fast-paced environment.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Responsibilities in Lehi
Entry-Level (0-3 yrs)	$75,000 - $90,000	Assistant PM, field superintendent support, logistics coordination for single-family subdivisions.
Mid-Level (4-8 yrs)	$95,000 - $120,000	Managing multiple residential or light commercial projects, client relations, budgeting.
Senior-Level (9-15 yrs)	$120,000 - $150,000+	Overseeing large-scale developments (master-planned communities), managing superintendents, complex stakeholder negotiations.
Expert/Specialist	$150,000+	Executive roles, specialized in data center construction (a huge Lehi market), or large-scale civil projects.

How Lehi Compares to Other Utah Cities:

• Salt Lake City Metro: Salaries are typically 5-10% higher (median ~$112k), but competition is fiercer. The pace is more corporate.
• Provo/Orem: Very similar to Lehi, though with a heavier focus on residential and light industrial. Salaries are nearly identical.
• St. George: Lower cost of living, but salaries can be 15-20% lower. The market is more tourism and retiree-focused.
• Park City: Salaries are significantly higher ($125k+ median), but the market is seasonal, highly specialized (high-end custom homes), and the cost of living is extreme.

Insider Tip: The 8% growth is your leverage. Don't just look at the median. With the influx of tech companies (like Adobe, Oracle, and the new Meta data center campus), there's a premium for managers who understand the specific demands of tech construction—fast schedules, complex MEP systems, and high-security protocols. If you have that experience, you can command a salary at the top end of the ranges above.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $106,586 sounds solid, but you need to see what it means for your monthly life. Let's break down a realistic monthly budget for a single Construction Manager in Lehi. We'll use the 95.0 cost of living index (US avg = 100) and the average 1BR rent of $1,282/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Annual Salary: $106,586)

• Gross Monthly Pay: ~$8,882
• Estimated Taxes (Fed + State + FICA): ~$2,220 (assuming single filer, standard deduction)
• Net Monthly Take-Home: ~$6,662

Sample Monthly Expenses:

• Rent (1BR Apartment): $1,282
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $200
• Car Payment/Insurance (Lehi is car-dependent): $600
• Groceries & Household: $450
• Health Insurance (Employer Plan): $300
• Professional Dues/Continuing Ed: $100
• Entertainment & Misc: $500
• Total Monthly Expenses: ~$3,432

Disposable Income/Savings: ~$3,230/month

This leaves a very healthy buffer for savings, investments, or paying down debt. The key takeaway is that the 95.0 cost of living index works in your favor. You're getting a relatively high salary in a market that's still cheaper than the national average.

Can you afford to buy a home?
Yes, absolutely. The median home price in Lehi is hovering around $550,000. With a $60,000 down payment (10.9%), a 30-year mortgage at 7% would have a monthly payment of ~$3,600 (including taxes/insurance). Using the standard 28/36 rule (housing cost should be ≤28% of gross income), your threshold is ~$2,487/month. The mortgage payment is higher, but remember:

1. Construction Managers often have access to builder-rate mortgages or partnerships.
2. Your disposable income ($3,230) can comfortably cover the difference if you prioritize homeownership.
3. The 10-year job growth of 8% suggests your income will rise, making the mortgage more manageable over time.

Insider Tip: Look at homes in the "Silicon Slopes" fringe—areas like Eagle Mountain or Saratoga Springs. You get more square footage for your money, and the commute to Lehi's job centers is manageable (20-30 minutes). This is where many local managers are buying.

Where the Jobs Are: Lehi's Major Employers

The Lehi job market is a mix of heavy hitters and local firms. You're not just working for the next subdivision; you're often building the infrastructure for the tech giants.

1. Layton Construction: A Utah-based powerhouse with a major office in Lehi. They handle large-scale commercial, healthcare, and tech projects. They are consistently hiring for PMs with commercial experience.
2. Big-D Construction: Another premier local contractor, known for high-profile projects in the tech and education sectors. They have a strong presence in the Lehi corridor.
3. Hunt Companies (Hunt Construction Group): Focuses on industrial and data center construction—critical in Lehi. They are often involved in the massive data center campuses springing up.
4. Meyer Najem Construction: A regional firm with a solid footprint in Utah County. They do a mix of commercial, healthcare, and municipal projects.
5. Lehi City Government: Don't overlook public works. The city is constantly managing its own growth—roads, water, parks, and public safety facilities. These are stable, long-term projects.
6. Alpine School District: With rapid population growth, the district is constantly building new schools and renovating old ones. This offers steady, union-backed work.
7. Private Residential Developers (e.g., Parkline Homes, Fieldstone Homes): Lehi's residential market is voracious. Working directly for a developer gives you a pipeline of projects and deep local market knowledge.

Hiring Trends: There's a clear shift toward "design-build" and "integrated project delivery" models. Firms want managers who can collaborate early with architects and engineers. Also, sustainability (LEED, Net Zero) is no longer a bonus; it's a requirement for municipal and corporate projects. If you have green building certifications, you're a standout candidate.

Getting Licensed in Utah

Utah requires a license for Construction Managers who act as prime consultants. Here’s the straightforward path:

1. Education & Experience: You need a combination of education and field experience. The most common path is a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or architecture, plus four years of progressive experience. Alternative paths exist for those without a degree but with more field experience (check the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) for specifics).
2. The Exam: You must pass the Construction Manager (CM) Exam administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This is a 8-hour, two-part exam (breadth and depth). The cost is approximately $374.
3. Application & Fees: Once you pass the exam, you apply to Utah DOPL. The initial license application fee is $200. Your license must be renewed every two years with a fee of $120 and proof of continuing education (14 hours).
4. Timeline: From start to finish, if you already have the required experience, expect 6-9 months. This includes studying for the NCEES exam (typically 3-4 months of dedicated study), scheduling the exam, and processing the state application.

Insider Tip: Utah has reciprocity with many states. If you are already licensed elsewhere, the process is faster. Contact Utah DOPL directly with your out-of-state license. Also, the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Utah Chapter is an invaluable resource for mentors and exam study groups.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Your choice of neighborhood will dictate your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s breakdown:

• Lehi City Center (Downtown Lehi):

  • Vibe: Historic charm meets new development. Walkable to some local shops and restaurants.
  • Commute: 0-10 minutes to most major job sites in Lehi.
  • Rent Est. (1BR): $1,150 - $1,350/month
  • Best For: Those who want to be in the heart of the action with a minimal commute.

• The "Silicon Slopes" Corridor (North Lehi/American Fork Canyon Area):

  • Vibe: Modern apartments and townhomes, surrounded by corporate offices (Adobe, etc.). Very convenient.
  • Commute: 5-15 minutes to major tech employers.
  • Rent Est. (1BR): $1,350 - $1,600/month
  • Best For: Managers working directly for tech construction firms. High cost, but ultimate convenience.

• Eagle Mountain (Southwest of Lehi):

  • Vibe: Newer master-planned communities, family-oriented, more open space.
  • Commute: 20-30 minutes to Lehi. Requires driving I-15 or back roads.
  • Rent Est. (1BR): $1,200 - $1,400/month (fewer 1BRs, more 2BR townhomes)
  • Best For: Those seeking a quieter, suburban feel and lower housing costs. Popular with managers who work on residential projects here.

• Saratoga Springs (West of Lehi):

  • Vibe: Similar to Eagle Mountain, with stunning mountain views and newer construction.
  • Commute: 25-35 minutes to Lehi.
  • Rent Est. (1BR): $1,250 - $1,450/month
  • Best For: Managers who want a balance of affordability and outdoor access (Provo River Trail is nearby).

• American Fork (North of Lehi):

  • Vibe: A more established, traditional suburban city with a great downtown and strong community feel.
  • Commute: 10-20 minutes to Lehi job sites.
  • Rent Est. (1BR): $1,100 - $1,300/month
  • Best For: Those who value established neighborhoods, good schools, and a quick commute.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-15 is a real factor. A 15-mile commute from Saratoga Springs can take 30 minutes at rush hour. Living north of Lehi (in American Fork or Pleasant Grove) often provides a reverse commute, which is a huge quality-of-life benefit.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 8% is your foundation, but specialization is your rocket fuel. In Lehi, you have several paths to increase your earnings and influence.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Data Center Construction: This is the gold standard in Lehi. Managers with experience in MEP-intensive, high-availability facilities can command a 15-20% salary premium. The demand is insatiable.
  • Healthcare Construction: With Intermountain Healthcare and other providers expanding, this is a stable, high-value niche.
  • Sustainability/LEED AP: Adds immediate credibility and can bump you into higher-tier project bids.
  • BIM/VDC Expertise: Being proficient in Building Information Modeling and Virtual Design & Construction is no longer optional for large firms.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. From Field to Office: Many start as superintendents or field engineers. Transition to PM, then to Senior PM or Project Executive.
  2. Owner's Rep: Move to the client side (e.g., managing construction for a tech company or healthcare system). This often involves less direct labor oversight but more strategic planning and budgeting.
  3. Entrepreneurship: With the market growth, starting a small firm specializing in a niche (e.g., tenant improvements for tech offices) is a viable long-term goal.

• 10-Year Outlook: The Silicon Slopes will continue to mature. Expect more large-scale mixed-use developments, continued data center expansion, and a growing emphasis on urban infill projects as Lehi densifies. Managers who can handle complex, multi-faceted projects will be in the driver's seat. The key will be adapting to new technologies (AI in project management, drone surveying) and maintaining strong local relationships.

The Verdict: Is Lehi Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Strong, growing job market (8% growth) with diverse project types.	Cost of living is rising quickly; housing is the main pressure point.
High quality of life with easy access to outdoor recreation (Wasatch Mountains, Utah Lake).	Car-dependent; public transit is limited outside of FrontRunner.
Relatively affordable compared to Salt Lake City and other tech hubs.	Rapid growth can mean traffic congestion and strain on infrastructure.
Network of reputable local firms and a tight-knit professional community.	Cultural homogeneity; less diversity than a major metro area.
No state income tax on social security benefits (for future planning).	Winters can be long and inversions can affect air quality.

Final Recommendation:
Lehi is an excellent choice for Construction Managers who are mid-career and looking to establish a long-term base. It's particularly ideal if you have (or are willing to develop) experience in commercial, tech, or data center construction. The combination of a strong salary ($106,586 median), a manageable cost of living (95.0 index), and explosive growth (8% job growth) creates a powerful financial and career trajectory.

It's not for everyone. If you crave the energy of a major coastal city, a vibrant nightlife, and a diverse cultural scene, Lehi might feel too quiet. But if you value career stability, outdoor access, and a community where you can buy a home and raise a family without being priced out, Lehi is one of the best markets in the country right now.

FAQs

Q: I'm relocating from out of state. How competitive is the job market?
A: It's competitive but not cutthroat. While local experience is valued, national firms with Utah offices (like Layton) actively recruit from other markets. Your best shot is to highlight experience with project types in high demand here (tech, data centers, healthcare). Network with the CMAA Utah Chapter and apply directly to the firms listed above.

Q: Do I need to know someone to get hired?
A: It helps, but it's not a hard requirement. The market is hungry for qualified managers. A strong resume and a clear understanding of the local market (from researching firms like Big-D or Hunt) will get you interviews. However, once you're in, building a local network through organizations like the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Utah is crucial for long-term advancement.

Q: What's the winter like for project timelines?
A: It's a factor. While Utah has a relatively dry climate, temperatures can drop below freezing, limiting some exterior work. However, a good Construction Manager plans for it. Winter is often used for interior build-outs, planning, and procurement. Projects don't stop; they just shift focus. The key is to work with subcontractors who are prepared for the conditions.

Q: Is the $106,586 median salary realistic for my experience?
A: It's a median, meaning half earn more, half earn less. For a mid-level manager (4-8 years) with a relevant degree and PMP or LEED certification, $105k-$120k is a very realistic target. For entry-level, aim for the $75k-$90k range. For senior roles with specialty experience, you should negotiate well above the median.

Q: How does the licensing reciprocity work?
A: Utah has reciprocity with states that have equivalent licensing standards (often based on the NCEES model). If you hold a