Construction Manager in Wichita, KS

The Salary Picture: Where Wichita Stands

As a local, I’ve watched the construction scene in Wichita evolve from the quiet post-recession years to the bustling growth we see today. The data backs it up: Construction Managers here are well-compensated, especially when you factor in the city's low cost of living. The median salary for a Construction Manager in Wichita is $104,801 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $50.39. This is slightly below the national average of $108,210/year, but that number is misleading without context. In cities like Denver or Austin, that national average barely covers rent. In Wichita, it means a comfortable lifestyle.

The job market is solid. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows there are approximately 792 jobs for Construction Managers in the metro area. More importantly, the 10-year job growth is projected at 8%, which is steady and reliable, fueled by ongoing infrastructure projects, commercial expansions, and a resilient residential market. It’s not explosive growth, but it’s sustainable, offering stability for long-term careers.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Experience is the single biggest driver of salary in this field. Here’s how compensation typically breaks down locally:

Experience Level	Typical Title	Estimated Salary Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-3 yrs)	Project Engineer / Assistant Superintendent	$65,000 - $85,000	Submittals, RFI management, basic scheduling, supporting site super.
Mid-Level (4-8 yrs)	Project Manager / Superintendent	$90,000 - $125,000	Full project oversight, budget management, client relations, safety planning.
Senior-Level (9-15 yrs)	Senior PM / Project Executive	$125,000 - $165,000+	Complex projects (>$10M), pre-construction services, business development.
Expert (15+ yrs)	Director / VP of Operations	$170,000 - $220,000+	Regional oversight, strategic planning, P&L responsibility, C-suite level work.

Note: These ranges are estimates based on local job postings, industry conversations, and BLS data for the region. Bonuses and profit-sharing can add 10-20% to these figures.

Comparison to Other Kansas Cities

How does Wichita stack up against other Kansas metros?

• Kansas City Metro: Salaries are higher, averaging around $115,000-$120,000, but the cost of living is 20-25% higher than Wichita. Competition is also fiercer with a larger talent pool.
• Topeka: Salaries are comparable to Wichita (median ~$98,000), but the job market is smaller and less diverse, with more government-driven projects.
• Manhattan (College Station): Salaries can be slightly lower due to a smaller commercial market, but there’s consistent work tied to Kansas State University and Fort Riley.

The Wichita advantage is the sweet spot: solid pay and a significantly lower cost of living, which translates to greater purchasing power.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. A median salary of $104,801 sounds great, but what does it mean for your monthly finances? Here’s a conservative breakdown for a single filer without dependents (using estimated 2024 tax rates and local averages):

• Gross Monthly Income: $8,733
• Federal & State Taxes (est. 25%): -$2,183
• FICA (7.65%): -$668
• Take-Home Pay (Net): ~$5,882/month

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Housing (Rent - 1BR Avg): -$774
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet): -$250
• Car Payment & Insurance: -$450
• Groceries & Household: -$400
• Health Insurance (if not employer-paid): -$300
• Retirement (10% contribution): -$873
• Dining, Entertainment, Misc.: -$500
• Savings (Emergency Fund / Investments): Remaining ~$2,335

This leaves a substantial buffer, a luxury in most major U.S. cities. The key here is the rent. The average 1BR rent of $774/month is a fraction of what you'd pay in a coastal city, freeing up hundreds of dollars monthly.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Absolutely. With a take-home of nearly $6,000 and housing costs this low, homeownership is very attainable. The median home price in the Wichita metro is around $220,000. With a 20% down payment ($44,000), a 30-year mortgage at 7% interest would have a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) of roughly $1,400-$1,500. That's still under 25% of your gross income, well within comfortable limits. Many Construction Managers I know own homes in their preferred neighborhoods within 5-10 years of starting their careers.

Where the Jobs Are: Wichita's Major Employers

Wichita’s construction economy is anchored by a mix of heavy industrial, commercial, and residential firms. Here are the key players you need to know:

1. Hutton Construction - A local giant and one of the largest general contractors in the region. They handle everything from healthcare facilities (like Wesley Healthcare expansions) to large-scale commercial projects. They’re known for a strong internal culture and often hire from within.
2. Key Construction - Another major player with a focus on healthcare, higher education (Wichita State University projects), and municipal buildings. They have a reputation for complex projects requiring high-level project management.
3. Siefkes & Associates - A premier commercial and industrial general contractor. They’re deeply involved in the aerospace supply chain, working with companies like Spirit AeroSystems on plant expansions and renovations.
4. J.E. Dunn Construction - The national firm has a significant Wichita office, managing large federal, institutional, and commercial projects. Being a unit of a major national company offers different career mobility.
5. Wichita State University (Capital Projects) - The university itself is a constant source of construction management jobs, overseeing multimillion-dollar renovations, new buildings, and campus infrastructure projects.
6. Sedgwick County & City of Wichita - For those interested in public sector work, the county and city governments have robust capital improvement programs, managing roads, parks, and public facilities. These roles often come with excellent benefits and job security.
7. Residential Builders (e.g., James Homes, Classic Homes) - The custom and spec home market is steady. While salaries might start lower, there's opportunity for advancement to a project manager role overseeing multiple home builds.

Hiring Trends: The market is currently favoring managers with experience in pre-construction services and design-build methods. Knowledge of Revit and BIM (Building Information Modeling) is increasingly expected for commercial roles. The aerospace and healthcare sectors are the most consistent drivers of new projects.

Getting Licensed in KS

Licensing in Kansas is straightforward but mandatory for advertising yourself as a "Construction Manager" or managing projects over a certain value. The Kansas State Licensing Board for Contractors oversees this.

Requirements & Process:

1. Experience: You need to document at least 4 years of experience in the construction industry, with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role. This can be a combination of education (a bachelor’s degree in construction management or engineering can substitute for 1 year) and work history.
2. Exam: You must pass the Kansas Business and Law Exam. It’s open-book and focuses on state laws, lien processes, and business management. Prep courses are available online and in-person (check with local firms like Hutton or Key for exam recommendations).
3. Bond & Insurance: You’ll need to secure a surety bond (minimum $10,000, often higher for larger project types) and general liability insurance. This is crucial for bidding on public or large private projects.
4. Application & Fee: Submit the application with your experience verification, exam results, proof of bond/insurance, and a fee. As of 2024, the initial application and license fee is $300. Licenses must be renewed biannually.

Timeline: From starting your application to receiving your license, expect 2-4 months if you have all your documentation in order. If you need to take the exam, add another 1-2 months for study.

Insider Tip: While not required for all roles, obtaining a Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) is highly respected, especially for commercial and public sector work. It signals a higher level of expertise.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Where you live depends on your commute and lifestyle. Wichita is a driving city, but traffic is minimal compared to larger metros.

1. East Side (Around East 21st St & Rock Rd): This is the commercial and retail hub. Proximity to I-35, I-135, and Douglas Ave makes it an easy commute to most job sites and downtown offices. It’s bustling with restaurants and shopping. Avg. Rent (1BR): $800-$950.
2. Downtown/West Edge: For those who want a walkable, urban vibe. The West Edge district offers modern apartments and lofts. Commute is easy to the core business district. Best for PMs who work for firms based in the downtown core. Avg. Rent (1BR): $950-$1,200.
3. South Central (Around Harry St & Seneca): A stable, established neighborhood with older, larger homes and good schools. It’s centrally located, offering a 10-15 minute drive to almost anywhere in the city. A favorite for managers with families. Avg. Rent (2BR): $1,100-$1,300.
4. Northwest (Around 21st & Maize Rd): Rapidly growing area with newer apartment complexes and subdivisions. A bit farther from the core, but easy access to I-235. Good value for newer amenities. Avg. Rent (1BR): $750-$900.
5. Andover/Bel Aire (Suburbs): If you prefer a quieter, suburban feel with excellent schools, these are the top choices. Commutes are longer (20-30 mins to downtown) but manageable. Homeownership is more common here. Avg. Rent (1BR): $750-$850.

Commuter Insight: The average commute in Wichita is under 20 minutes. Most construction managers drive a truck or company vehicle, so fuel and vehicle maintenance are real costs to factor in.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 8% job growth over 10 years reflects Wichita's steady economic base. Your career trajectory can take several paths:

• Vertical (Corporate): Project Manager -> Senior PM -> Project Executive -> Director of Operations -> VP. The ceiling at a large firm like Hutton or J.E. Dunn is high.
• Horizontal (Specialization): Move from general construction to a specialty like healthcare, data centers, or advanced manufacturing (aerospace). Specialists often command premium salaries (5-15% above median) due to niche expertise.
• Entrepreneurial: With a strong network in Wichita’s tight-knit construction community, many experienced PMs launch their own small GC firms or consulting practices. The low cost of living makes startup risks more manageable.
• Public Sector: Transitioning to the City of Wichita or Sedgwick County offers unparalleled job security, a pension, and a better work-life balance, though salaries may plateau earlier.

Ten-Year Outlook: Wichita is betting big on its future as a hub for advanced manufacturing and aviation. The recent $2 billion investment in Spirit AeroSystems and the growth of the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) will drive a need for construction managers skilled in building high-tech, clean-room, and heavy industrial facilities. Those who build this expertise will be in high demand.

The Verdict: Is Wichita Right for You?

Pros	Cons
High Purchasing Power: The median salary of $104,801 paired with a Cost of Living Index of 89.5 (10.5% below US avg) is financially advantageous.	Limited "Prestige" Projects: Fewer iconic skyscraper or mega-project opportunities compared to coastal cities.
Stable, Growing Market: 8% growth and 792 jobs indicate a resilient market less susceptible to boom/bust cycles.	Car-Dependent City: Public transit is limited; you will need a reliable vehicle.
Strong Community: The construction industry is a small network where reputation matters. It's easier to build relationships.	Cultural Offerings: While improving, it lacks the same density of museums, theaters, and nightlife as a major metro.
Manageable Scale: Easy commutes, less traffic, and a "big small town" feel reduce daily stress.	Weather: Summers are hot and humid, and tornadoes are a seasonal risk.
Path to Homeownership: A clear, attainable goal for most professionals in the field.	Limited Public Transit: Almost non-existent for commuters.

Final Recommendation: Wichita is an excellent choice for construction managers who value financial stability, work-life balance, and a clear path to homeownership. It's ideal for mid-career professionals (5-15 years of experience) who want to maximize their salary's real value. If your primary goal is to work on the world's most high-profile, cutting-edge projects every single day, you might find Wichita’s pace limiting. But if you want a sustainable career where you can afford a great house, a reliable truck, and save for the future, Wichita is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Does the median salary of $104,801 apply to all types of construction?
A: Yes, that's the overall median for all construction managers. However, those in specialized fields like healthcare or data centers may earn 10-20% more, while residential managers might start slightly lower but can grow with volume.

Q: How competitive is the job market in Wichita?
A: It's competitive but not cutthroat. With 792 jobs in the metro, there are openings, but the talent pool is smaller. Having your Kansas license and a strong local reference (even from a general contact) gives you a significant edge. Networking through the local AGC (Associated General Contractors) chapter is highly effective.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for a new Construction Manager moving to Wichita?
A: Building a local network quickly. The industry is relationship-based. Join the Wichita AGC and attend their events. Also, understanding local subcontractor relationships and subcontractor availability is key to hitting the ground running.

Q: Is it worth getting licensed if I'm only looking for corporate project manager roles?
A: If you're working as an employee for a general contractor (like Hutton or Key), the firm's license covers your work. However, having your own license demonstrates commitment and expertise, and it's essential if you ever want to branch out on your own or consult.

Q: How does the cost of living index of 89.5 affect my salary's real value?
A: It means your $104,801 in Wichita feels like earning ~$117,000 in a city with an average cost of living (index of 100). It’s the single biggest factor making Wichita attractive for professionals in this field.