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We asked 80 project managers how many hours they worked. Most of the project managers we asked worked in the construction industry and were in charge of different types of projects, from small to medium to big. The results show how much-overworked project managers are. So what are the average work hours for project managers?
On average, project managers and construction managers work 44.2 hours a week, which is an average of 8.8 hours a day for five days a week. Many project managers have stated that they do not have a fixed time to start and finish work; however, on average, they need to put in around 8.8 hours a day and not necessarily a 5 days a week job as some work on the weekend if they are required to be on site.
Usually, project managers’ work hours are from 7 AM to 5 PM. This is very high compared to normal work hours, which is 38 hours a week or 7.5 hours a day from 9 AM to 5 PM.
The data collected through online polls and the results have proven that project managers work long hours, as many have reported working overtime. See the results below:
How Many Hours Do Project Managers Work?
| Day | Week | Month | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Work Hours | 8.8 | 44.2 | 221.1 |
| Maximum Work Hours | 12 | 60 | 300 |
| Minimum Work Hours | 6 | 30 | 150 |
How Many Days A Week Do Project Managers Work?
Our study has also shown that most project managers work full-time (5 days a week), and only a small percentage are part-time (4 days a week); in our study, they were only 2 project managers working part-time.
We also found that some project managers work over weekends if they need to be on construction sites which means they work 6 days a week. In our study, 4 out of 80 project managers worked 6 days a week.
Project managers have a very dynamic work environment as they work from the office, home and site, depending on the workload.
Project managers are not paid overtime as they are white-collar workers who earn a salary. This shows the commitment and responsibility required to succeed as a project manager.
Why Do Project Managers Work Long Hours?
The reason why project managers work long hours is because of the high job commitment. Project managers are in charge of completing a project. For that to happen, project managers need to manage teams of contractors and engineers, Handel the cost of materials and supplies and monitor project progression and quality control.
This easily puts project managers on the list of the most overworked people, with doctors, lawyers and even engineers.
Is It Worth Becoming A Project Manager?
Project management is a highly rewarding career, pays a high salary, and offers lots of perks and benefits that are only available with high-value careers, such as bonuses and stock ownership.
In addition, a project management career is also scalable, which means you can earn a higher salary based on the projects you run, the people you manage and your experience.
There is a lot to unpack on project management. If you want to learn more, we have answered the question in detail here: Is Project Management & Construction Management A Good Career? Honest Opinion
More Similar Topics On Project Management Might Interest You?
- We Asked 80 Project Managers: What Is Their Annual Salary?
- We asked 80 Project Managers If They Are Happy?
- 9 Effective Ways To Stand Out As a Rookie Project Manager
- What Are The Daily Tasks Of A Project Manager? Tips For Excellent Project Management.
- Top 7 Personality Traits Of Project Manager For Immediate Success
