Every construction project needs a general contractor to oversee the entire process. A water agency's construction manager works as its general contractor for projects such as a new office building or a pipeline or reservoir. The construction manager must:

• review building plans with civil, environmental, structural, and electrical engineers;
• understand environmental and safety requirements;
• oversee the schedule and budget for the work, as well as hiring and supervising the employees;
• schedule the flow of work for subcontractors (electricians, for example, cannot work until walls are built);
• make sure the work of subcontractors (such as earth movers, carpenters, masons, electrician, and plumbers) is high quality and agrees with the terms of the contract.