When talking about construction, concrete and steel, hard hats, heavy equipment, etc., come to mind. But there is more to the industry than manual labor. It’s a blend of management, collaboration, forecasting, and other skills that help bring new structures and spaces into the world.
You can occupy any role in the construction industry based on your interests and abilities. Office-based positions, different levels of hands-on work, or technical management roles are available. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into various jobs in the construction industry that can help you decide on your next career move in this exciting and dynamic industry.
Civil Engineer
As one of the most in-demand construction jobs, civil engineers are in charge of designing, executing, and supervising infrastructure projects such as bridges, roads, tunnels, and water line systems. They work closely with other engineers and architects to ensure structures are built efficiently and safely. Civil engineers use advanced construction software to create simulations and models of their designs before construction begins. They also conduct site visits to track progress and address any concerns that may arise during the project.
Structural Engineer
A specialized civil engineer, a structural engineer, is specifically trained to design and analyze buildings that can withstand the forces of nature, such as earthquakes, wind, and hurricanes. They work hand-in-hand with architects to develop functional and safe designs for bridges, buildings, and other structures. Structural engineers must be experienced in using complex software to create models and simulations and conducting site visits to certify that the construction execution is going according to plan. They ascertain how the lateral load and gravity affect the building and ensure they’re within acceptable codes and limits.
Construction Manager
As the final decision maker on a construction project, this career path requires overseeing all the project process steps from start to finish. This includes construction crew scheduling, managing budgets, coordinating with engineers and architects, hiring subcontractors, and guaranteeing that projects stay on schedule. CMs must have strong leadership skills and be able to collaborate effectively with all members of the team. It’s their role to handle team members’ day-to-day operations with the use of work crew scheduling software and keep higher management updated on the project status.
Architect
Architects are responsible for making blueprints and designs for structures in a construction career path that requires a talent for design, drawing, and safety information. They work closely with the project owner to understand their vision and needs and then use their technical knowledge to create detailed plans that align with building regulations and codes. Architects must consider accessibility, aesthetics, sustainability, and budget limits when designing a structure. Moreover, they may also oversee the construction execution to ensure the final product matches their initial design.
Construction Superintendent
A construction job requiring a physical presence on the job site is superintendent. Generally, they are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations on the field, coordinating with inspectors and subcontractors, and ensuring that the project is running within budget and on schedule. The responsibilities may vary daily, including supervising daily tasks and addressing on-site issues as they come up. These superintendents are also responsible for maintaining quality and safety standards throughout the project.
Construction Estimator
This is a suitable construction path for you if you have excellent analytical skills and are good with numbers. Construction estimators compute the cost of a project before it begins, including estimating the quantity, price, and material schedule in construction projects. They also estimate the equipment, labor, and subcontractors needed to complete the project. Typically, they visit the job site to collect information and work closely with other team members such as engineers, architects, and contractors. Estimators present their forecasted amount to project owners along with recommendations on how the costs can be reduced without compromising the output quality.
Construction Inspector
Construction inspectors act as quality control agents who work for local or state governments to certify that all building projects are up to code and comply with safety regulations. Their job involves:
- Inspecting projects during various phases.
- Reviewing specifications and plans.
- Issuing approvals and permits.
- Reporting any issues or violations.
They may also conduct final inspections before a project is accepted and give recommendations for modifications or improvements to ensure compliance. This construction career requires a lot of site visits and inspections.
Safety Manager
Construction sites are full of dangerous elements, so safety managers play an important role in preventing injuries and accidents. These specialists are responsible for establishing and implementing safety protocols, conducting site inspections, and ensuring all on-site workers follow safety procedures. Safety Managers also investigate incidents and establish plans to prevent future incidents. They require attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and safety procedures and regulations knowledge. They may also be responsible for implementing safety training for workers in the construction field.
Foreman or Foreperson
A foreman or foreperson is a skilled worker who coordinates and supervises the work of other employees in specific directions. For instance, carpenters, plumbers, and painters may each have a foreperson to oversee their work on a construction site. Foremen must be highly experienced in their specific trade and have outstanding leadership skills. They designate tasks and resources within their team, ensure all safety protocols are being employed, and collaborate with project managers about any issues that arise. This is a good construction path if you’re a hands-on leader who likes to be mostly on-site.
Equipment Operator
This is a construction path for those who want to demonstrate their mechanical skills and physical stamina. Equipment operators use heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes to dig trenches, move materials, and prepare areas for a certain construction activity. They must be skilled in operating different equipment efficiently and safely while following project plans accurately. It’s a physically demanding job that requires attention to detail and great focus. Apart from on-the-job training, many equipment operators must undergo a formal training program to become certified. Equipment operators usually utilize construction inventory management software to get a quick overview of their tools and equipment and see their availability and location.
Carpenter
Carpentry is a construction career that requires much work with fiberglass, wood, and drywall. Carpenters are skilled in installing, constructing, and repairing various structures, including stairs, rafters, frameworks, partitions, etc. They use multiple tools, such as drills, saws, and levels, to shape and cut materials according to building specifications and plans. Depending on the project’s needs, carpenters may work on job sites or in workshops. Attention to detail is essential in this job, as even small mistakes can affect the structural integrity of a building.
Plumber
Plumbers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing plumbing systems in various types of infrastructure. This includes connecting fixtures, pipes, and appliances to the water supply and drainage systems. Plumbers must know building regulations and codes to guarantee proper installation measures. They may also specialize in certain areas, such as sprinkler systems or gas lines. This construction career suits those who enjoy hands-on work and solving technical problems. Plumbers may also be required to be on emergency calls for maintenance or repairs.
Painter
Painters are excellent at creating visually pleasing finishes on various surfaces. Their responsibilities include preparing surfaces by patching, sanding, and cleaning them before applying paint or other types of finishes. They also use tools such as rollers, brushes, and sprayers to apply paint accurately and evenly. Painters may work on various structures, including commercial or residential buildings, bridges, or vehicles. This construction path requires strict attention to detail and creativity to achieve the needed results.
Electrician
The construction path of the electrician requires an individual to have technical knowledge of electrical and problem-solving skills. Electricians install, repair, and maintain electrical systems in industrial, residential, and commercial buildings. This includes lighting fixtures, wiring, circuit breaker boxes, and other electrical components. Electricians must follow building codes and safety protocols to ensure a safe installation process. Moreover, they may also be required to repair issues or troubleshoot existing electrical systems as needed.
Key Takeaway
Construction teams build our world, plain and simple. They create the homes we live in, the buildings we work in, and the spaces we play in. They create various infrastructure, transportation systems, and other vital structures directly impacting our everyday lives. In a nutshell, construction teams make this world a livable place by curating the environment to meet the community’s needs.
If you have an inner passion for building and creating, then a construction path is worth considering. Whether technical or physical, there are many careers to choose from to be a part of this amazing and evolving industry.
Moreover, the construction industry is constantly transforming, with new techniques, materials, and technologies being introduced recently. To stay competitive in your career, staying updated on these developments and continuously learning throughout your construction career is critical. Attend workshops or seminars, seek out opportunities for professional development, read industry publications, and tap into the technological developments of the construction world.
Put advanced construction crew management software into practice to maximize your workflow. Pro Crew Schedule is a construction tool that can optimize your workflow regardless of your career path.
Wherever you are or whatever construction career you’re planning to head to, Pro Crew Schedule can help you.
