Construction Manager in New Bedford, MA

As a career analyst who’s spent years watching the construction scene in New Bedford, I can tell you this city has a unique rhythm. We’re not just the "Whaling City"—we're a working port with a deep maritime history that’s constantly being rebuilt. The cranes over the harbor, the steady hum of work on the waterfront, the constant churn of renovations in the historic district—it’s all part of the fabric. If you’re a Construction Manager thinking about a move here, you’re not just looking for a job; you’re looking for a place where your skills have a tangible impact on a community with real grit. This guide will break down the reality of the role here, from the paycheck to the potholes, so you can decide if New Bedford is the right site for your next project.

The Salary Picture: Where New Bedford Stands

Let's start with the numbers, because that's the foundation of any decision. The construction market here is tight, and skilled managers are in demand, but the pay reflects a mix of urban and coastal dynamics. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Massachusetts labor market information, here's how the salary landscape breaks down.

The median salary for a Construction Manager in the New Bedford metro area is $108,502/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $52.16/hour. This is just a tick above the national average of $108,210/year, a testament to the state's strong economy and the specialized nature of work here. However, that median figure is a midpoint. Your actual earning power will depend heavily on experience, the type of projects you manage, and your ability to navigate the local network.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of the experience levels you can expect in the New Bedford area. These ranges are based on local job postings, industry surveys, and conversations with hiring managers.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Annual Salary Range (New Bedford Metro)	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$75,000 - $95,000	Often starting as an Assistant PM or Project Engineer. Focus is on learning local codes, managing subcontracts, and supporting senior staff. You’ll be on-site constantly.
Mid-Career	4-9 years	$95,000 - $130,000	This is where the median $108,502 sits. You’re likely running small to medium-sized projects ($1M-$10M) independently. Expect to handle budgeting, scheduling, and client relations for local developers or institutions.
Senior	10-19 years	$130,000 - $175,000	Managing large, complex projects (e.g., multi-family housing, institutional builds, or significant waterfront renovations). You’re likely supervising other PMs and have deep ties with local subcontractors and inspectors.
Expert/Executive	20+ years	$175,000+	Overseeing entire portfolios for a major developer or a regional construction firm. This level often involves strategic business development, high-level negotiations, and mentoring the next generation.

When you compare New Bedford to other Massachusetts cities, the context is crucial. Boston, as the state's hub, commands significantly higher salaries, often with a 15-25% premium, but the cost of living and competition are exponentially greater. Worcester and Springfield offer comparable cost of living but might have slightly lower salary benchmarks due to a less dense maritime and coastal project pipeline. New Bedford sits in a sweet spot: it offers competitive pay relative to the state, driven by a robust public and private construction sector, without the intense financial pressure of the Boston metro. The 10-year job growth of 8% for the metro area is steady, not explosive, which points to a stable, sustainable market rather than a bubble.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. In New Bedford, many senior managers receive bonuses tied to project completion margins and safety records. Given the city's older building stock and strict historic preservation rules, expertise in navigating the New Bedford Historic District Commission can be a significant value-add—and a potential negotiation point for higher pay.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A $108,502 salary looks solid on paper, but what does it mean for your monthly life in New Bedford? Let's crunch the numbers with a realistic budget. We'll assume a single filer with no dependents, using standard 2023 tax brackets and Massachusetts state tax (5%).

• Gross Annual Salary: $108,502
• Monthly Gross: $9,042
• Estimated Deductions (Federal Tax, FICA, MA State Tax): ~28% (This is a conservative estimate; actual will vary) = $2,532/month
• Estimated Take-Home Pay: $6,510/month

Now, let's layer in the cost of living. The Cost of Living Index for New Bedford is 100.9, just slightly above the national average of 100. The key factor here is housing. The average 1-bedroom rent is $1,205/month. However, this is an average. A more realistic budget for a comfortable, modern 1BR in a safe, convenient neighborhood is closer to $1,300 - $1,500/month.

Here’s a potential monthly budget for a Construction Manager earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes for New Bedford
Housing (1BR Apt)	$1,400	A decent, modern unit in the North End or near the waterfront. Older buildings in the South End can be cheaper but may lack amenities.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$250	Coastal humidity can affect AC costs in summer. Internet is widely available.
Groceries	$500	Slightly higher than national average due to the "Port City" premium on fresh seafood and imported goods.
Transportation	$400	If you own a car: gas, insurance, and occasional bridge/tunnel tolls (to/from Cape Cod/RI). Public transit (BAT) is limited; a car is a near-necessity for job sites.
Health Insurance	$300	This is highly variable. If provided by employer, this cost drops significantly.
Personal & Leisure	$500	Dining out, local breweries (like Moby Dick Brewing Co.), community events.
Savings/Debt	$1,660	The remainder after essential expenses. This is a healthy savings rate (~25% of take-home).
Total	$5,010	Leaves a buffer of ~$1,500/month for unexpected costs or additional savings.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely, but with caveats. The median home price in New Bedford is around $425,000 (as of late 2023). With a 20% down payment ($85,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% interest would have a monthly payment of approximately $2,270 (including property taxes and insurance). That's a significant jump from the $1,205 average rent. For a single earner on the median salary of $108,502, a $1,500 monthly rent is manageable (about 22% of gross income), but a $2,270 mortgage payment would be over 25% of gross income, which is a tighter squeeze. It's feasible, especially for dual-income households or those who have saved aggressively, but it requires careful budgeting. A more attainable path might be to buy a multi-family home (a classic in New Bedford), live in one unit, and rent the others to offset the mortgage.

Where the Jobs Are: New Bedford's Major Employers

The job market for Construction Managers here is not dominated by one giant firm but is a mosaic of local and regional players, often tied to specific sectors. Here’s a look at the major employers and what they’re hiring for.

1. The New Bedford Public Schools (NBPS): The district is in the midst of a massive, multi-year capital improvement plan. They are constantly managing renovations and new construction at schools like New Bedford High and Keith Middle School. They hire Construction Managers (often as "Project Managers" in-house) to oversee these projects, ensuring they stay on budget and schedule, and meet state education standards.
2. UMass Dartmouth: This university has a steady pipeline of projects, from student housing renovations to new academic facilities and lab upgrades. Their projects are often complex, requiring coordination with academic departments and adherence to strict research facility standards. They employ both in-house facilities staff and hire external PMs through contracts.
3. The City of New Bedford (Department of Public Facilities): The city itself is a huge client. They manage everything from road and sidewalk projects (a constant need) to park renovations and municipal building upkeep. Working for the city offers stability and a great pension, but the pace can be bureaucratic. Hiring often happens through civil service exams or direct contracts with local firms.
4. Local Maritime & Port Developers: The waterfront is a hotbed of activity. Companies like New Bedford Harbor Development Commission and private developers are involved in projects ranging from dock repair and warehouse conversion to new commercial spaces. If you have experience with marine construction or industrial projects, this is your niche. The recent push for offshore wind infrastructure is a massive driver, though much of that work is tied to the larger New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal.
5. Major Regional Construction Firms: Companies like Swinerton, Consigli Construction Co., and Shawmut Design and Construction have a significant presence in Southeastern Massachusetts. They often bid on large institutional and healthcare projects in the area (including work at nearby St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford or Southcoast Health facilities). These firms offer a path to managing larger, more complex projects and often have structured career ladders.
6. Residential & Multi-Family Developers: The housing market, especially in the historic districts, is active. Firms like The Procaccianti Group or local developers are converting old mills and warehouses into loft apartments and building new multi-family units. These projects blend modern construction with historic preservation—a unique skill set that's highly valued here.

Hiring Trends: There's a strong demand for managers who are proficient with digital tools (Procore, Bluebeam) and who can navigate the local permitting process. The 8% job growth reflects a steady need, largely driven by public sector projects and the ongoing revitalization of the waterfront and downtown. Networking is critical; the SouthCoast Builders Association is a key hub for local connections.

Getting Licensed in MA

Massachusetts has specific, rigorous requirements for Construction Managers. It’s not a "free-for-all" state, which protects the profession and ensures quality.

There is no single "Construction Manager License" in MA. Instead, the work often falls under the umbrella of a Construction Supervisor License (CSL), which is issued by the Massachusetts Division of Professional Licensure (DPL), Office of Public Safety and Inspections.

Requirements for a Construction Supervisor License (CSL):

• Experience: You need a minimum of 3 years of full-time experience in construction work, with at least 1 year in a supervisory capacity. This is non-negotiable.
• Education: A bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, or construction management can substitute for one year of experience.
• Exam: You must pass the Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License Exam. This is a comprehensive test covering Massachusetts building codes (780 CMR), business law, and safety regulations. The exam is administered by PSI Exams.
• Cost: The exam fee is approximately $150, and the license fee is around $150 (subject to change). Total initial cost: ~$300.
• Timeline: If you already have the experience, studying for and passing the exam can take 3-6 months. The entire process from application to receiving your license can take 4-8 weeks after passing the exam. If you need to gain the required experience, that timeline extends to 1-3 years.

Insider Tip: The Massachusetts building code is unique and detailed. Many local PMs recommend taking a prep course specifically for the MA CSL exam. The Southeastern Massachusetts Educational Collaborative (SMEC) or local trade schools often offer these. It’s a worthwhile investment, as the pass rate for first-time test-takers without preparation can be low.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live in New Bedford will heavily influence your daily commute, lifestyle, and social circle. As a Construction Manager, you may need to travel to job sites across the city and the South Coast, so centrality is key.

1. The North End: This is arguably the most desirable area for professionals. It’s a mix of historic homes and modern apartments, with a walkable feel, great restaurants (like The Black Whale), and proximity to the waterfront. It’s a quick drive to downtown and industrial areas. Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,800 for a modern 1BR/1BA.
2. Downtown/New Bedford Historic District: Living here means you’re in the heart of the action. You can walk to the Whaling Museum, the Zeiterion Theatre, and many offices. It’s vibrant but can be noisy. Ideal for those who want a true urban environment. Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,600 for a loft or apartment in a converted mill.
3. The South End: A diverse, residential neighborhood with a strong community feel and beautiful, large Victorian homes. It’s more affordable than the North End and offers a more settled, family-friendly vibe. Commutes to the waterfront or industrial parks are still reasonable. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,400 for a 1BR in a multi-family home.
4. Padanaram Village (South Dartmouth): Technically outside the city limits but a 10-minute drive from downtown, this is a charming, upscale coastal village. It offers a quieter, more suburban lifestyle with access to beaches and marinas. It’s popular with established professionals and families. Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $2,000+ for a 1BR (higher demand, less inventory).
5. The West End: A more working-class, residential area that is undergoing gradual revitalization. It offers the most affordable rents and a genuine neighborhood feel. It’s a bit further from the core job sites but provides easy access to I-195 for travel to Fall River or Providence. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200 for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In New Bedford, career growth for a Construction Manager isn't just about climbing a corporate ladder; it's about deepening your expertise in a specialized market.

• Specialty Premiums: The most lucrative specialty is marine/coastal construction. With the offshore wind industry establishing a stronghold, managers with experience in this area can command a significant premium. Similarly, expertise in historic preservation—navigating the New Bedford Historic District Commission and using specialized materials—is highly sought after and can lead to higher fees.
• Advancement Paths: Many managers start with a local firm, gain experience, and then either rise to a senior VP role, become a regional manager for a national firm, or strike out on their own. Starting a niche consultancy focused on historic renovation or maritime project management is a viable long-term goal for seasoned professionals.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is a solid indicator. The offshore wind sector is the biggest wild card. The New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal is a national hub, and its expansion will create sustained demand for construction management for decades. The city's ongoing efforts to revitalize its downtown and waterfront are also long-term projects. The outlook is stable with pockets of high-growth potential.

The Verdict: Is New Bedford Right for You?

Here’s a final, honest assessment to help you decide.

Pros	Cons
Competitive Salary: $108,502 median is strong for the cost of living.	Car Dependency: Public transit is limited. A reliable car is essential for job sites.
Stable Job Market: 8% growth and a diverse base of employers (public, institutional, maritime).	Limited High-End Amenities: You trade the cultural density of Boston/Brooklyn for a more laid-back, local vibe.
Unique Project Portfolio: From historic whaling buildings to offshore wind infrastructure.	Older Housing Stock: While charming, many rentals and homes lack modern amenities unless you pay a premium.
Genuine Community: A tight-knit professional network where relationships matter.	Seasonal Weather: Harsh winters can impact construction schedules and quality of life.
Manageable Cost of Living: You can afford a good quality of life, including the potential for homeownership.	Slower Pace: Career advancement outside of major firms may require patience and local networking.

Final Recommendation: New Bedford is an excellent fit for a Construction Manager who values project diversity and community connection over the fast-paced, cutthroat competition of a major metropolis. If you're excited by the challenge of blending old and new, navigating a unique local bureaucracy, and seeing your work directly impact a revitalizing city, you'll thrive here. It’s not the place for someone who needs a vast array of nightlife and cultural options at their doorstep, but for the professional who wants to build a meaningful career while enjoying a high quality of life, New Bedford is a compelling and rewarding choice.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a car to work as a Construction Manager in New Bedford?
A: Yes, absolutely. While you can live without one in parts of the North End or Downtown, job sites are spread across the city, from the waterfront to the industrial parks and surrounding towns