Construction Manager in Meridian, MS

A Career Guide for Construction Managers in Meridian, Mississippi

Meridian, Mississippi, isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of a construction boom. It’s not Austin or Nashville. But for a Construction Manager, that’s precisely the point. This is a town built on grit, history, and a steady rhythm of essential building and infrastructure work. With a metro population of just 34,466, the market is tight, relationships are everything, and your name is your reputation. If you’re looking for a place where you can be a big fish in a manageable pond—and where your paycheck stretches further than almost anywhere else—Meridian deserves a hard look. This guide is packed with the local data, employer intel, and on-the-ground insights you need to decide if this East Mississippi hub is your next career move.

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The Salary Picture: Where Meridian Stands

Let’s cut straight to the numbers, because in Mississippi, they tell a specific story. As a Construction Manager in the Meridian metro area, you can expect a median salary of $103,015 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $49.53. This is solid, especially when you factor in the region’s cost of living. However, it’s slightly below the national average of $108,210, a common trend in many Mid-Southern markets.

Where it gets interesting is how this salary stacks up locally and regionally. In the broader state of Mississippi, Meridian’s construction pay is competitive, holding its own against larger markets like Jackson or Gulfport, which often have higher costs of living but only marginally higher pay for this role. The 10-year job growth projection is 8%, with approximately 68 jobs in the metro area. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s stable and reflects a market that’s resilient, not volatile. It’s a place for long-term careers, not necessarily quick windfalls.

Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different stages of your career in the Meridian area. These are estimates based on local market data and industry standards for the region.

Experience-Level Salary Breakdown (Meridian, MS)

Level	Experience	Est. Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-4 years	$65,000 - $82,000	Assistant Project Manager, Project Engineer. Focus on submittals, RFIs, schedules under supervision.
Mid-Level	5-9 years	$90,000 - $115,000	Full CM on mid-sized projects ($1M-$10M). Managing subs, budgets, and daily field operations.
Senior-Level	10-15 years	$115,000 - $140,000	Senior CM for large/commercial projects. Client relations, complex budgeting, strategic planning.
Expert/Executive	15+ years	$140,000+	Division Manager, Pre-Construction Director, or Partner. Oversees multiple projects, firm strategy, business development.

Comparison to Other Mississippi Cities:

• Jackson Metro: Median pay is closer to $105,000-$110,000, but with a higher cost of living and more competitive, corporate-driven market.
• Gulfport-Biloxi: Salaries are similar to Meridian (~$103,000) but heavily skewed toward coastal resilience and casino/gaming construction, a niche that can pay premiums but is also more seasonal.
• Hattiesburg: Slightly lower median pay (~$98,000), driven by a larger university construction sector that often employs project engineers at lower rates.

Insider Tip: In Meridian, your salary is less about title and more about the specific projects you can bring in or manage. A CM who can navigate the public procurement process for city or state projects will always command a premium over one who sticks to small residential.

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $103,015 salary looks substantial, but the real value is in the purchasing power. Meridian is one of the most affordable metropolitan areas in the U.S. The Cost of Living Index is 84.0 (against a U.S. average of 100), meaning your dollar goes about 16% further here than the national average. Housing is the biggest factor; the average 1-bedroom rent is just $714/month.

Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single Construction Manager earning the median salary. We’ll assume a standard tax situation (federal, state, and FICA) and the average rent.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Construction Manager, Median Salary)

Category	Estimated Amount	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$8,584	$103,015 / 12
Estimated Taxes (25-30%)	$2,150 - $2,575	Federal, MS state tax (5%), FICA. Varies by deductions.
Net After Taxes	$6,009 - $6,434	Your take-home pay.
Rent (1BR Average)	($714)	Significantly below national average.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	($150 - $200)	Varies by season; summer AC costs are real.
Groceries & Household	($400 - $500)	MS has no sales tax on groceries, a major plus.
Transportation (Car Payment/Gas/Insurance)	($400 - $600)	Essential; public transit is limited.
Health Insurance/401(k) Deductions	($400 - $700)	Varies by employer plan.
Discretionary (Eating Out, Entertainment, Savings)	$1,695 - $2,430	The "Meridian Advantage" - a high disposable income.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
Absolutely. With the average 1-bedroom rent at $714, the median home price in Meridian County hovers around $150,000 - $175,000. A 20% down payment on a $160,000 home is $32,000, a goal that is far more attainable here than in most U.S. metros. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) could easily be under $1,000, which is often less than renting a comparable single-family home in a major city. For a Construction Manager, this is the golden path to building long-term wealth.

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Where the Jobs Are: Meridian's Major Employers

The job market is small (68 jobs), so knowing the key players is critical. It’s a mix of local family firms, regional contractors, and public entities. Here’s who’s building Meridian:

1. Dale Partners (Architectural & Engineering): While an A/E firm, they are the lead on many of Meridian’s most visible public projects (courthouses, city buildings, schools). They often partner with CMs or hire them for owner’s representative roles. Hiring Trend: Steady for experienced CMs who understand public design-build processes.
2. The Ben M. Radcliff Contractor, Inc. (BMRC): A powerhouse in commercial and industrial construction across Mississippi and Alabama. They handle everything from hospitals to schools. Hiring Trend: They have a strong presence in Meridian and frequently hire CMs for projects at Rush Foundation Hospital and Lauderdale County schools. It’s a stable, long-term bet.
3. City of Meridian & Lauderdale County Government: These are direct employers and major clients. The Public Works Department and School District (Meridian Public School District, Lauderdale County School District) have in-house construction management teams. Hiring Trend: Public sector jobs offer excellent benefits and job security but can be slower to hire. Watch for openings after budget cycles (July).
4. East Mississippi Business Development Corporation (EMBDC): While not a direct employer, this is the engine of local economic development. They recruit new businesses and manage industrial park development. A CM with industrial or speculative building experience can build a career by working with the contractors EMBDC brings in.
5. Rush Health Systems: As the largest regional healthcare provider, Rush is in a constant state of expansion, renovation, and maintenance. Their facilities management team often employs or contracts directly with CMs to oversee projects. Hiring Trend: Consistent, driven by aging infrastructure and growth in outpatient services.
6. Local General Contractors (e.g., McAlpin Enterprises, The Gillingham Company): These are the backbone of residential and light commercial construction. They may not always post jobs openly, but they are the ones building the subdivisions in Poplar Springs and North Hills. Insider Tip: The best way to work with them is through relationship-building at the East Mississippi Builders Association.

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Getting Licensed in MS

Mississippi does not require a state-specific license for Construction Managers. Instead, licensure falls under the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC). For CMs, the relevant license is typically the Commercial Building Contractor or Residential Builder license, which is more common for contractors who also perform the work. Many CMs operate under a general contractor’s license or as an employee without one.

However, to bid on public projects over $50,000, you must hold a license from the MSBOC.

• Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of four years of experience (two as a foreman/supervisor), and pass an exam (commercial or residential). You must also prove financial stability (bonding capacity, net worth).
• Costs: Exam fees are approximately $275 each for the commercial and residential exams. License application fees are around $200. Bonding is the significant cost, requiring a surety bond of $10,000 to $50,000 based on license class, which can cost 1-3% of the bond amount annually.
• Timeline: The process can take 3-6 months from application to license in hand, assuming you meet experience requirements and pass the exam on the first try. The MSBOC website is the primary resource, and many local contractors recommend using a bonding agent familiar with Mississippi.

Insider Tip: For a CM, you may not need your own license if you’re hired by a GC. However, obtaining your own license is the key to starting your own firm and is a major career booster in this market.

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Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live in Meridian impacts your commute (which is almost always under 20 minutes) and your lifestyle. Here are the top spots for a working CM:

1. Poplar Springs: This is the premier, established neighborhood in Meridian. Think classic brick homes, large lots, and mature trees. It’s close to downtown, Rush Hospital, and the best schools. Commute: 5-10 minutes to most job sites. Rent/Own: Rental availability is low; most residents buy. Home prices range from $250,000 to $500,000+. The vibe is quiet, professional, and perfect for a CM wanting stability.
2. North Hills: Adjacent to Poplar Springs, offering newer construction (1990s-2000s) at a slightly lower price point. It’s a family-friendly area with good access to shopping and Meridian Community College. Commute: 10-15 minutes. Rent Estimate: 3BR homes rent for $1,200-$1,600. A great balance of affordability and quality of life.
3. Downtown/Midtown District: This is for the CM who wants a shorter commute and a more urban vibe. You’ll find renovated historic lofts and apartments. It’s walkable to restaurants, the Meridian Museum of Art, and the MSU-Riley Center. Commute: 5 minutes or less. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments range from $800 - $1,200. Best for younger, single CMs or those without school-age children.
4. The "Avenues" (7th Street to 14th Street): An up-and-coming area with historic charm and ongoing renovations. It’s close to downtown but offers more space for the money. Commute: 5-10 minutes. Rent Estimate: Older 2-3BR homes can be found for $900 - $1,300/month. This area is for the CM who sees potential and doesn’t mind older home maintenance.
5. Causeway/Interstate 20 Corridor: If you work on industrial or highway projects, living near I-20 can be convenient. This area has newer, more utilitarian housing and is close to the East Mississippi Business Park. Commute: 10-15 minutes. Rent Estimate: 1BR apartments from $700 - $900. Less about charm, more about practicality and a quick commute to industrial sites.

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The Long Game: Career Growth

In Meridian, career growth isn’t about climbing a corporate ladder; it’s about deepening your expertise and expanding your network. The 8% job growth rate indicates a stable, not frenetic, market.

Specialty Premiums:

• Public Works/Infrastructure: CMs with experience in DOT, municipal, or school projects are highly valued. These jobs are funded by bonds and state funds, making them less sensitive to economic downturns. This can command a 10-15% premium.
• Industrial/Manufacturing: With the state’s push for manufacturing, CMs who understand concrete tilt-up, process piping, and heavy industrial work are scarce. This can be a 20% premium because few local competitors hold this skill.
• Healthcare/Renovation: Rush Hospital’s constant upgrades require CMs skilled in working within operational facilities—a complex, high-stakes specialty.

Advancement Paths:
A typical path is: Assistant Project Manager (at a GC) → Project Manager → Senior Project Manager → Division Manager or Owner’s Representative. The most lucrative move is often to start your own small firm after building a network. With low overhead, a solo CM can net a significant portion of project fees. Another path is moving into Pre-Construction for a larger regional firm, focusing on estimating and design coordination.

10-Year Outlook:
The outlook is steady but promising. The 10-year job growth of 8% is tied to population stability and infrastructure age. The key driver will be the Revitalization of Downtown Meridian (funded by federal grants) and the ongoing need to replace aging schools and healthcare facilities. The CM who positions themselves as an expert in historic tax credit projects or green building (for lower operational costs in institutional buildings) will be ahead of the curve.

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The Verdict: Is Meridian Right for You?

Meridian isn’t for every Construction Manager. If you thrive on constant mega-project buzz and a fast-paced, anonymous city life, look elsewhere. But if you value work-life balance, community, and significant financial freedom, it’s a hidden gem.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Pros	Cons
Extremely Low Cost of Living (84.0 Index)	Limited Job Market (only ~68 CM jobs)
High Disposable Income (Median Salary $103,015)	Slower Career Progression (fewer rungs on the ladder)
Stable, Relationship-Driven Market	Limited Industry Diversity (less tech/innovation)
Short Commutes & Easy Lifestyle	Social Scene is Small (can feel insular)
Strong Public and Institutional Demand	Weather (Hot, humid summers; occasional severe storms)
Real Homeownership Potential	Limited Public Transit (car is a must)

Final Recommendation:
Meridian is an excellent choice for mid-to-senior level Construction Managers seeking financial stability, a manageable pace of life, and the chance to become a respected local expert. It’s a market for builders who value craftsmanship and community over constant turnover. For entry-level managers, the limited market may be a challenge, but for those with 5+ years of experience, Meridian offers a rare opportunity to maximize your salary’s purchasing power and build a lasting legacy. It’s a place to build a career and a life.

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FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for Construction Managers in Meridian?
It’s not large, but it’s not cutthroat. The key is networking. With only 68 jobs, many positions are filled through personal connections or by contractors who know your work. Attend meetings of the Mississippi Chapter of Associated General Contractors (AGC) or local Builders Association events. Cold applications are less effective than a referral from a local supplier or engineer.

2. What is the typical project scale in Meridian?
You’ll manage a wide range. Residential projects are often custom homes ($300k-$800k). Commercial projects are typically small to mid-size: retail strip centers, small office buildings, and school renovations ($1M-$10M). Public infrastructure projects (road work, sewer upgrades) can be larger but are administered through the state or city. Mega-projects are rare; you won’t be managing a 50-story skyscraper here.

3. Is there a demand for green building or LEED certification?
Demand is growing but not