Builder jobs
The construction industry is a broad term that encompasses many different types of jobs. These jobs can be divided into two main categories: skilled and unskilled. Skilled construction workers have specialized training and experience in a particular area, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. Unskilled construction workers perform general tasks, such as lifting materials, operating equipment, and cleaning up work sites.
Skilled construction jobs
Some of the most common skilled construction jobs include:
- Carpenters: Carpenters build and install wooden structures, such as frames, walls, and roofs.
- Plumbers: Plumbers install and repair pipes, fixtures, and appliances that carry water, gas, and waste.
- Electricians: Electricians install and maintain electrical systems, including wiring, fixtures, and outlets.
- Painters: Painters apply paint, varnish, and other finishes to surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and trim.
- Welders: Welders use heat to join metal parts together.
- Ironworkers: Ironworkers install and erect structural steel, such as beams and columns.
- Sheet metal workers: Sheet metal workers fabricate and install metal products, such as ductwork, roofing, and siding.
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) mechanics: HVAC mechanics install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Unskilled construction jobs
Some of the most common unskilled construction jobs include:
- Laborers: Laborers perform general tasks, such as lifting materials, operating equipment, and cleaning up work sites.
- Construction equipment operators: Construction equipment operators operate heavy machinery, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes.
- Material handlers: Material handlers load, unload, and move materials at construction sites.
- Truck drivers: Truck drivers transport materials and equipment to and from construction sites.
- Demolition workers: Demolition workers tear down old buildings and structures.
Education and training
The education and training requirements for construction jobs vary depending on the specific job. Some skilled construction jobs, such as carpentry and plumbing, require apprenticeships. Apprenticeships typically combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Other skilled construction jobs, such as electrical work and welding, can be learned through vocational programs or community colleges. Unskilled construction jobs typically do not require any formal education or training.
Job outlook
The job outlook for construction jobs is projected to be good over the next few years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of construction workers will grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the need to repair and upgrade aging infrastructure, as well as the continued growth of the population and economy.
Wages and salaries
Wages and salaries for construction jobs vary depending on the specific job, the level of experience, and the location. The BLS reports that the median annual wage for construction workers was $36,940 in May 2020. The top 10 percent of earners made more than $69,520, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $25,110.
Benefits
Construction jobs typically offer a variety of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some construction jobs also offer union benefits, such as higher wages, better working conditions, and more job security.
Job satisfaction
Construction jobs can be physically demanding and sometimes dangerous. However, they can also be rewarding and offer a sense of accomplishment. Construction workers have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and see their work come to life. They also have the opportunity to learn new skills and advance their careers.