What does a project management engineer do?
The Project Manager Engineer in the wood sector plays a central role in the design and construction of wood structures, whether they are buildings, bridges, walkways, or other types of structures. This is a versatile professional who ensures the coordination between the various stakeholders in a project, while ensuring compliance with technical, financial, and regulatory requirements.
They are responsible for the design and drafting of the project specifications, adhering to the client’s requests and the specific constraints of the wood material. The engineer then writes the project specifications, which will serve as a reference throughout the project. This detailed document outlines the objectives to be achieved, the expected performance of the structures, as well as the technical requirements to be met. This step is crucial, as it determines not only the feasibility of the project but also its legal framework and the standards to be followed, particularly in terms of safety and sustainability.
Pre-dimensioning and financial estimation: The Project Manager Engineer is also responsible for preliminary studies, including the pre-dimensioning of wooden structural elements. Thanks to their engineering knowledge, they can calculate the optimal dimensions of components to ensure their strength and stability, while considering the specific characteristics of wood, such as its flexibility and its capacity to change with humidity. At this stage, they also provide a financial estimate of the project, taking into account material costs, labor, transportation, and unforeseen expenses. This allows for budget adjustments and ensures the project’s financial viability before it begins.
Throughout the project’s execution, the Project Manager Engineer coordinates the activities of the various stakeholders involved: architects, clients, design offices, construction companies, and inspection offices. They are the primary point of contact for each party and ensure that all interventions are carried out in compliance with the project specifications and deadlines. This orchestration role requires not only strong technical skills but also interpersonal and organizational abilities. The engineer must be able to handle unforeseen events, provide quick solutions to problems encountered on the construction site, and ensure that the work proceeds in accordance with the relevant standards.
Worksite monitoring and completion: The Project Manager Engineer does not only focus on design and planning; they also oversee the construction site throughout its duration. They ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with the plans and project specifications and that deadlines and budgets are met. At the final stage, they participate in the handover of the work, a crucial moment where they verify that the structure meets the initial requirements and that no major defects are present.
In conclusion, the Project Manager Engineer in the wood sector is a technical expert and project manager. They contribute to the growth of sustainable wood construction by ensuring the quality of structures while respecting environmental and economic standards. This profession requires a variety of skills, ranging from engineering to project management, and the Engineering program at ENSTIB provides the necessary knowledge and expertise to meet the current challenges of the wood sector.