Job Qualifications

A guide to careers and jobs.

Construction Jobs

Cities and roads do not build themselves. It takes a team of skilled construction workers to accomplish that. The construction industry has been around since the beginning on civilization. Although the Egyptians and Romans used slaves, thankfully things have progressed since then. The modern construction industry is responsible for the construction of new homes, roads, bridges, skyscrapers, manufacturing plants, commercial buildings, and any other feature that must be fabricated or excavated. Construction jobs can also include supervisory positions as well as sales and distribution of building materials.

The construction industry has been on a slow and steady rise over the last decade. Records show that in the last fifteen years there has been a significant growth in the industry as more and more businesses open up. There are very few lags in the industry due to economic pitfalls and that means steady jobs. Construction jobs typically include higher than average wages, long hours, and can be physically demanding.

As some third world countries become more modernized with current times, there are construction jobs overseas that are opening up. Many of these countries do not have the necessary skills for specialized construction. This has created a demand for experienced employees, especially in management areas.

Construction Job Qualifications

Many construction jobs require no formal training or education. Those people who enter the construction industry straight out of high school with no prior experience in the field can expect to be laborers, helpers, and apprentices. All that is required is to be physically fit and possibly have a working knowledge of simple mechanical tools. Advancement would include on-the-job training. The more years are spent in the industry would provide more opportunities to learn.

Other construction jobs may require some training and certification. In many instances a license is required and must be renewed periodically. Jobs such as crane operators, electricians, plumbers, and heating and air conditioning installers must have a license to work.

Trade unions and associations usually provide proper training for some positions. Many young people enter the field through an apprenticeship program provided by unions. These programs provide both on-the-job training as well as classroom courses. There are also trade schools and vocational schools that offer courses and training for candidates. These can take anywhere from a semester to two years to complete.

Manager, sales, and contractor positions can require a degree from either a two-years or four year college. A business degree or an engineering degree is usually preferred.

Construction Job Descriptions

Almost all the jobs in the construction field fall into one of the following categories: management, professional, general labor, sales and distribution, and installation and repair

Management – These positions include titles such as building site supervisor, contractor, project supervisor, and operations manager. Duties can cover everything from overall supervising of a construction site, coordinating different teams of professionals, meeting deadlines, and financial management.

Professional – Professional positions are those that require a license, certification, or degree. Engineers, draftsmen, heavy machinery operators, electricians, plumbers, and steel workers, are examples that fall into this category.

General Labor –General laborers include everything from carpenters, masons, painters, and helpers. They perform most of the most physical work in construction and do not require a license.

Sales and Distribution – Positions in this area are responsible for the sales of construction materials and equipment to companies and individuals. They are also responsible for distributing those materials to various locations.

Installation and Repair – Jobs in this area have the task of installing and repairing equipment in both residential and commercial sites. This includes installation of air conditioning and heating, new fixtures, and general home repair and maintenance.