BIM manager

How to become a BIM manager

There are several routes to becoming a BIM manager. You could complete a university or college course, or an apprenticeship.

You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site. 

University

To become a BIM manager, you could study for an undergraduate degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant subject such as architecture, construction, product design, civil engineering or architectural technology. 

During your studies, you will learn how to use design software such as Autodesk Revit, MicroStation or Autodesk Civil 3D. Afterwards, you may be able to join a company’s graduate trainee scheme as a junior technician.

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a university course
• Funding advice

College/training provider

Your local college or training provider may offer courses in computer-aided design which will start you on your career path to becoming a BIM manager.  

You could study for a Level 2 certificate in CAD and Manufacturing or a Level 3 Diploma in Design and Draughting.

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice 

Apprenticeship

You could complete an apprenticeship to become a BIM manager. An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.

You could complete an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction, or any apprenticeship which includes CAD design.

You’ll need:

• Up to 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths (intermediate apprenticeship)
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths (advanced apprenticeship).

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

• Find an apprenticeship near you
• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some previous experience or relevant qualifications, you could apply directly to an employer for a job as a BIM technician. You could progress to become a BIM manager with further experience and training.

CAD (computer aided design) managers and professionals with at least 5 years’ experience of managing projects in the built environment may progress to become a BIM Manager if they have the required skills.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a BIM manager. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a BIM manager include: 

• Leadership skills
• Persistence and determination
• Ability to use your initiative
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Business management skills
• Ability to organise your time and workload
• Be flexible and open to change
• Have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications.

Qualifications

What does a BIM manager do?

As a BIM Manager, you will be responsible for delivering a business’s technology strategy and promoting the benefits of digital ways of working. You may support a small team, ensuring that projects run smoothly and project information models are delivered on time. The role involves working closely with BIM coordinators who are responsible for managing the digital process. 

The role of a BIM manager involves the following duties:  

• Acting as the intermediary between designers, clients and architects so that projects remain efficient and effective 
• Working closely with BIM coordinators, who are responsible for producing project information models  
• Ensuring that BIM execution plans are produced and maintained for each project 
• Completing supply chain assessments 
• Supporting and auditing the project team and flagging non-compliances 
• Training or upskilling colleagues in specific software programmes 
• Ensuring staff have access to the tools and equipment they need  
• Overseeing the purchase of workstations so that hardware is sufficient and effective 
• Producing monthly reports for senior managers, to identify and measure BIM implementation 
• Keeping up-to-date with advancements in building technology 
• Driving the implementation of digital information plans and strategies 
• Leading meetings to identify project tasks and resolve issues 
• Overseeing BIM budgets 
• Supporting the career development, coaching and mentoring of a team of staff 
• Raising the profile of BIM within across departments and teams 
• Adhering to the latest industry standards. 

How much could you earn as a BIM manager?

The expected salary for a BIM manager varies as you become more experienced. 

• Newly trained BIM managers can earn £30,000 - £35,000 
• Trained BIM managers with some experience can earn £35,000 - £55,000 
• Senior BIM managers can earn £55,000 - £90,000.* 

Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources

Check out the latest BIM manager vacancies:  

• Indeed
• Careers in Construction
• CIAT

As these are external websites, the number of vacancies related to your preferred role may vary. New opportunities will be posted as they come up.

Career path and progression

As a BIM manager, you could progress to become a CAD manager or BIM engineer. 

You may choose to progress into a more senior role and become a project manager or BIM director. 

Alternatively, you could set yourself up as a self-employed consultant.