CM at Risk
Construction Manager at Risk (CM at Risk or CMAR) is a project delivery method in construction where a construction manager agrees to deliver a project within a guaranteed maximum price. Think of it like hiring a contractor who becomes part of the team early in the planning stages, rather than after all designs are complete. This approach helps reduce risks because the construction manager can spot potential problems early and suggest cost-saving solutions. It's different from traditional methods where contractors bid after designs are finished. Other names for this include "Construction Manager/General Contractor" or "CMAR Delivery Method."
Examples in Resumes
Managed $50M hospital expansion project using CM at Risk delivery method
Led preconstruction services as CMAR for multiple education facilities
Delivered under-budget results through Construction Manager at Risk approach
Typical job title: "Construction Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Construction Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you establish and manage a Guaranteed Maximum Price in a CM at Risk project?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they analyze project documents, coordinate with subcontractors, evaluate risks, and build contingencies into the price while maintaining transparency with the owner.
Q: Describe a challenging CM at Risk project and how you handled the owner's expectations?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience managing complex stakeholder relationships, budget control, and problem-solving while maintaining the collaborative nature of CMAR delivery.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key differences between CM at Risk and Design-Bid-Build delivery methods?
Expected Answer: Should explain how CM at Risk involves earlier contractor involvement, collaborative approach, and guaranteed maximum price versus traditional competitive bidding after design completion.
Q: How do you manage preconstruction services in a CM at Risk project?
Expected Answer: Should discuss involvement in design review, cost estimating, value engineering, and scheduling during the preconstruction phase.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is CM at Risk and why would an owner choose this delivery method?
Expected Answer: Should explain the basic concept of early contractor involvement and how it helps manage project costs and risks for the owner.
Q: What role does a CM at Risk play during the design phase?
Expected Answer: Should describe how the construction manager provides input on costs, constructability, and scheduling during design development.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-3 years)
- Basic understanding of construction documents
- Cost estimation assistance
- Project coordination
- Schedule monitoring
Mid (3-7 years)
- Subcontractor management
- Budget control
- Risk assessment
- Value engineering
Senior (7+ years)
- Complex project management
- Contract negotiation
- Team leadership
- Strategic planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with preconstruction services
- Lack of collaborative project experience
- Poor understanding of cost estimation
- Limited knowledge of construction documentation
- No experience with team coordination
Related Terms
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