Construction Manager in Topeka, KS

The Salary Picture: Where Topeka Stands

Let’s cut right to the numbers. As a Construction Manager in Topeka, you’re looking at a Median Salary of $103,632/year. That breaks down to an Hourly Rate of $49.82/hour. This is solid, especially when you factor in the city’s cost of living, which sits at an 85.9 index (US average is 100). Compared to the National Average of $108,210/year, Topeka is slightly below the national mark, but your dollar goes significantly further here.

To understand the local market, you need to break it down by experience. The 250 construction management jobs in the Topeka metro aren’t evenly split. Here’s how the landscape typically looks:

Experience Level	Estimated Salary Range (Topeka)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-3 yrs)	$65,000 - $80,000	Project Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent, estimating support, submittal management.
Mid-Career (4-9 yrs)	$85,000 - $115,000	Running day-to-day field operations, managing budgets up to $5M, direct client/vendor communication.
Senior (10-19 yrs)	$115,000 - $145,000	Large-scale project management, business development, strategic planning, mentoring junior staff.
Expert (20+ yrs)	$145,000+	Executive-level roles, company-wide operations, multi-project oversight, high-level contract negotiation.

How does this stack up elsewhere in Kansas? It’s competitive. Topeka’s median salary of $103,632 is on par with Wichita’s figures for similar roles, though larger-scale industrial projects in Wichita can sometimes command a premium. Compared to the Kansas City metro, Topeka salaries are generally lower (KC’s median is closer to $115,000), but the cost of living in KC’s suburbs is dramatically higher. In Topeka, you’re not paying Kansas City prices to build in Kansas City.

Insider Tip: The 8% 10-year job growth is a key metric. It’s not explosive, but it’s steady. This growth is driven by two main factors: consistent state government projects (more on that later) and a growing need for commercial and healthcare facility renovations. The market isn’t flooded with new CMs, which means experienced professionals have leverage.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A six-figure salary in Topeka feels different than in Chicago or Denver. Let’s run the math for a single person earning the median salary of $103,632/year. After federal, state, and FICA taxes, your estimated monthly take-home pay is roughly $6,500 - $6,800. (This is an estimate; consult a tax professional for your exact situation.)

Now, factor in rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Topeka rents for $731/month. A more comfortable 2-bedroom for a professional with a home office might run you $900-$1,100/month.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (Moderate Lifestyle)
Take-Home Pay	$6,650
Rent (2-Bedroom)	$1,000
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$220
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$450
Groceries & Household	$400
Health Insurance (Employer Plan)	$250
Retirement Savings (10%)	$865
Entertainment & Discretionary	$600
Total Expenses	$3,785
Remaining/Additional Savings	$2,865

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Topeka is approximately $170,000 - $190,000. With a 20% down payment ($34,000 - $38,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates would put your monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) around $1,100 - $1,300. This is often less than rent for a comparable property. A Construction Manager’s salary provides a very comfortable path to homeownership in Topeka.

Where the Jobs Are: Topeka's Major Employers

Topeka’s job market isn’t about Fortune 500 tech giants; it’s about stable, local institutions that build and maintain the city. Here are the 5-7 key employers you should be targeting:

1. State of Kansas: The single largest employer. Projects range from office building maintenance at the Kansas State Capitol Complex to new state facility construction. Contracting is often handled through the Kansas Department of Administration. Hiring trends are stable but slow; you need to be on their pre-qualified contractor list.

2. Stormont Vail Health: A major healthcare system with multiple campuses. They have a constant pipeline of renovation, expansion, and new construction projects (e.g., the new cancer center). They often hire directly for a Construction Manager position to oversee their capital projects.

3. University of Kansas Health System (St. Francis Campus): Similar to Stormont Vail, KU Health has a significant footprint in Topeka. Their projects are complex, requiring CMs with healthcare construction experience (ICRA, MEP-heavy builds).

4. Evergy (formerly Westar Energy): The region’s primary utility provider. They have large-scale infrastructure projects, substation builds, and facility maintenance. These jobs often involve civil and electrical coordination, a niche that pays a premium.

5. Local School Districts (Topeka USD 501, Shawnee Heights, etc.): School bonds pass regularly in Topeka. New schools, additions, and modernization projects are ongoing. These are public works projects with strict budgets and timelines, perfect for CMs who are process-oriented.

6. Commercial Real Estate Developers (e.g., Lane4 Property Group, local firms): While not as large as the institutional employers, private developers drive retail, office, and multi-family projects. The new developments in the Downtown and Westboro areas are often led by these firms.

7. General Contractors (GCs): Look for firms like Hutton, McGown-Gilbert, and Dondlinger & Sons. These are the mid-to-large size GCs that handle a majority of the commercial work in the city. They are the primary source of jobs for most Construction Managers.

Hiring Trend Insight: The demand is strongest for CMs with experience in healthcare, public works, and higher education. The market is less active in single-family residential at the CM level; that’s mostly handled by small custom builders or project managers.

Getting Licensed in KS

Kansas does not have a mandatory state-level license for Construction Managers. This is a key point. However, you will need a license if you are acting as a General Contractor or performing specific trades.

1. State Requirements: The Kansas Department of Labor, Division of Professional Licensing, oversees contractor licenses. For a General Contractor (GC) license, you must demonstrate financial stability and pass an exam. The CM role itself is often a salaried or project-based position and doesn’t require a state license unless you’re the prime contractor.

2. Key Certifications to Get (and Why):

   • Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from CMAA: This is the gold standard. It’s not state-mandated but is highly respected by institutional employers like the State of Kansas and hospitals. Cost: ~$700 for the exam, plus study materials.
   • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Training: This is non-negotiable for any field role. Most employers will pay for this, but having it already is a huge plus. Cost: $150-$200.
   • LEED AP or WELL AP: With the push for sustainability, especially in state and university projects, a green building credential is a significant differentiator. Cost: ~$500-$700.

3. Timeline to Get Started: If you have experience and a degree, you can be job-ready immediately. To enhance your competitiveness, budget 3-6 months to study for and pass the CCM exam, and complete your OSHA 30. The cost to get fully credentialed is under $1,500, a solid investment.

Insider Tip: Networking in Topeka is done through the Topeka Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the Topeka Area Builders Association. Join these groups. The construction community here is tight-knit, and many jobs are filled through referrals before they’re ever posted online.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Your choice of neighborhood in Topeka will be driven by commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Approx. 2BR Rent	Best For
Westboro / College Hill	Historic, walkable, closest to downtown. 10-15 min commute to most job sites.	$1,100 - $1,400	Young professionals, those who want character and proximity to restaurants/bars.
North Topeka (Garfield Park area)	More affordable, older homes, strong community feel. 15-20 min commute.	$850 - $1,100	First-time homebuyers, budget-conscious renters.
Southwest Topeka (Lake Shawnee area)	Suburban, family-oriented, near parks and the lake. 20-25 min commute to downtown.	$900 - $1,200	CMs with families, those who prefer a quieter, suburban lifestyle.
Oakland	Gentrifying, very affordable, up-and-coming. 15-20 min commute.	$700 - $900	Those who don’t mind a shorter-term rental while saving for a house.
Washburn University Area	Collegiate, energetic. Rents can be higher due to student demand. 10-15 min commute.	$1,000 - $1,300	CMs who want to be near campus amenities and younger social scenes.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Topeka is minimal. The main corridor is I-470/I-70. Living north or south of the river adds maybe 10 minutes to any commute. The most important factor is being near a major arterial road like Wanamaker Road or Gage Boulevard for easy access.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Topeka, career growth isn’t about jumping to a new company every two years; it’s about deepening expertise and moving up internally or to larger local firms.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest salary jumps come with specialization. A CM with healthcare construction experience can earn 15-20% above the median. Similarly, heavy civil or utility (Evergy) experience commands a premium. Public works expertise is a stable, long-term career path in the state capital.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Path A (Corporate): Assistant Project Manager → Project Manager → Senior Project Manager → Director of Operations (at a large GC).
  • Path B (Owner’s Rep): Move from a GC to an owner’s side role (e.g., with Stormont Vail or KU). The hours can be more predictable, and pay is competitive.
  • Path C (Entrepreneurial): Use your network and experience to start a small CM firm or consultancy, focusing on a niche like renovation or historic preservation.

• 10-Year Outlook (8% Growth): This growth will be driven by:

  1. Infrastructure: Aging water/sewer systems and roadways need constant attention.
  2. Aging Population: More healthcare facilities need renovation and expansion.
  3. State Investment: Ongoing state capital projects are a permanent feature.
  4. Retail/Commercial Shift: While e-commerce affects traditional retail, there’s demand for logistics centers and adaptive reuse of older buildings downtown.

The Verdict: Is Topeka Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely Low Cost of Living: Your $103,632 salary affords a fantastic lifestyle and homeownership.	Limited High-Profile Projects: Don’t expect skyscrapers; projects are mid-size and functional.
Stable Job Market: 250 jobs and 8% growth are reliable, especially with government and healthcare anchors.	Slower Pace of Advancement: Career moves can be slower than in major metros.
Short Commutes & Easy Lifestyle: No traffic, affordable housing, and a relaxed pace of life.	Smaller Professional Network: Fewer CMs and firms than in KC or Dallas.
Tight-Knit Industry Community: AGC and local associations offer real networking opportunities.	Fewer "Big Name" Projects: Portfolio may be less flashy, but it's steady and profitable.
Gateway to the Midwest: Central location for regional travel and projects.	Weather: Winters can be harsh; project schedules are affected by freeze-thaw cycles.

Final Recommendation:
Topeka is an excellent choice for Construction Managers at the mid-career to senior level who value stability, quality of life, and financial security over the hustle of a major coastal city. It’s less ideal for early-career professionals seeking the highest possible salary ceiling or those who want to work on iconic, high-rise urban projects. If you’re looking to build a comfortable life while managing solid, meaningful construction projects, Topeka is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Is the construction market in Topeka seasonal?
A: Yes, to a degree. Concrete and exterior work typically slow down from late November to March due to freezing temperatures. However, interior renovation projects for state offices, schools, and hospitals often continue year-round, providing steady work for CMs.

Q: How important is a degree in this market?
A: A Bachelor’s in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or Architecture is highly preferred by major employers like the State of Kansas, hospitals, and large GCs. However, extensive field experience (10+ years) can sometimes substitute for a degree, especially with smaller contractors or in specialty niches.

Q: What software should I know?
A: Procore and Bluebeam Revu are the industry standards for project management and document control, used by most larger firms. AutoCAD familiarity is a plus, especially for renovation projects. If you have BIM (Building Information Modeling) experience, that’s a significant differentiator for healthcare and institutional work.

Q: What’s the best way to find a job here?
A: The "hidden job market" is real in Topeka. Start by contacting the local AGC chapter. Use LinkedIn to connect with Project Managers and Directors at the employers listed above. Many jobs are posted on the websites of specific employers (e.g., Stormont Vail Careers page) rather than on national job boards.

Q: Is Topeka a good place to start my own firm?
A: It can be, but it’s challenging. The market is relationship-driven. You’d need a very strong niche (e.g., historic preservation, sustainable retrofits) and a deep network. It’s more feasible to start a small consultancy after 15+ years of local experience, rather than a full-scale GC from day one.