The Construction & Building Materials industry is a robust and dynamic field, foundational to the growth and development of communities. This sector beckons those with a passion for creating, improving, and sustaining infrastructures. Explore a multitude of careers that range from planning and design to hands-on execution, each playing a pivotal role in shaping the physical world around us.
The Construction & Building Materials industry is a realm of endless possibilities, with a plethora of careers to match various interests and skill sets. Armed with the right education and experience, you can contribute to the creation of lasting infrastructures that stand as testaments to human endeavor and ingenuity.
A senior project manager in the construction / building materials industry is a professional who oversees and coordinates large-scale construction projects from start to finish. They are responsible for planning, budgeting, scheduling, hiring, supervising, and communicating with various stakeholders involved in the project. They also ensure that the project meets the quality standards, safety regulations, and client expectations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for construction managers, which includes senior project managers, was $95,260 in May 20201. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $164,7901. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, education, experience, and certification of the senior project manager.
How to become a Senior Project Manager: To become a senior project manager in the construction / building materials industry, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a related field1. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree or a professional certification such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)2. Additionally, one needs several years of experience in managing construction projects of different sizes and scopes2.
Architects are professionals who design and plan buildings and structures, as well as oversee their construction. They are responsible for the visual appearance, functionality, safety, and sustainability of their projects. They work with clients, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to create and deliver designs that meet their needs and expectations. Architects use various tools and software to create drawings, models, and simulations of their designs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for architects was $82,320 in May 20201. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $49,700, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $137,6201. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, education, experience, and certification of the architect.
How to become a Architect: To become an architect in the U.S., one typically needs a professional degree in architecture from an accredited program, which usually takes five years to complete1. Some programs offer a pre-professional bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in architecture, which may take six years or more1. After graduating, one must complete a paid internship of at least three years under the supervision of a licensed architect1. Then, one must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), a series of tests that cover various aspects of architecture practice1. Finally, one must obtain a license from the state where they intend to work1.
Civil engineers are professionals who plan, design, and supervise the construction and maintenance of building and infrastructure projects. They are responsible for the quality, safety, and sustainability of their projects. They work with various stakeholders such as clients, architects, contractors, and suppliers to ensure that the projects meet the requirements and expectations. Civil engineers use various tools and software to create and manage their designs.
How to become a Civil Engineer: To become a civil engineer in the U.S., one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field from an accredited program1. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree or a professional certification such as Professional Engineer (PE), Structural Engineer (SE), or Certified Construction Manager (CCM)2. Additionally, one needs to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and gain some work experience as an engineer-in-training before becoming eligible for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam1. Finally, one needs to obtain a license from the state where they intend to work1.
Construction managers are professionals who plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish. They are responsible for ensuring that the projects meet quality standards, deadlines, and budgets. They work with various stakeholders such as clients, architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors to deliver successful outcomes. Construction managers also monitor and supervise on-site activities, ensuring that construction work is carried out safely and in compliance with building codes and regulations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for construction managers was $101,480 in May 20221. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,140, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $164,7901. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, education, experience, and certification of the construction manager.
How to become a Construction Manager: To become a construction manager in the U.S., one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a related field1. Some employers may prefer a master’s degree or a professional certification such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP)2. Additionally, one needs several years of experience in managing construction projects of different sizes and scopes2.
A heavy construction equipment supervisor is a professional who oversees the maintenance and operation of machinery, typically in a construction or industrial capacity. They are responsible for ensuring that the equipment is safe, efficient, and functional. They work with various stakeholders such as construction managers, engineers, contractors, and operators to coordinate and supervise the use of equipment. They also perform inspections, repairs, and troubleshooting of the equipment.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a heavy construction equipment supervisor in the U.S. was $63,411 per year as of September 20211. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, education, experience, and certification of the supervisor.
How to become a Heavy Construction Equipment Supervisor: To become a heavy construction equipment supervisor, one typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and several years of experience in operating and maintaining heavy equipment2. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a vocational or technical program in heavy equipment operation or maintenance2. Additionally, one may need to obtain a license or certification from the state or a professional organization such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) or the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)2.
Estimators are professionals who provide pricing for a proposed scope of work or project. They are responsible for calculating all of the required costs for a construction project, including direct costs (e.g. materials and worker wages) and indirect costs (e.g. equipment depreciation and office worker salaries). Estimators use various tools and software to create and manage their estimates. They work with various stakeholders such as owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers to ensure that the estimates are accurate, competitive, and profitable.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for cost estimators, which includes construction estimators, was $66,610 in May 20201. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,190, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $114,2501. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, education, experience, and certification of the estimator.
How to become an Estimator: To become an estimator in the construction / building materials industry, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a related field1. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a vocational or technical program in estimating or a related field2. Additionally, one may need to obtain a certification from a professional organization such as the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) or the Association for the Advancement of Cost Engineering (AACE)2.
A construction inspector is a professional who examines buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures to ensure that they comply with the relevant codes, standards, and specifications. Construction inspectors also verify that the construction work meets the quality and safety requirements of the clients and the authorities. Construction inspectors may work for government agencies, engineering firms, construction companies, or as self-employed contractors. They typically spend most of their time on-site, inspecting various aspects of the construction process and documenting their findings1.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of construction and building inspectors is projected to decline by 2% from 2022 to 2032, mainly due to the automation of inspection tasks and the use of drones and other technologies. However, there will still be a need for inspectors to monitor the quality and safety of complex projects and to ensure compliance with changing regulations.
The average salary for a construction inspector in the United States is $30.67 per hour, or $63,790 per year, according to Indeed.com. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the inspector. Some of the highest paying industries for construction inspectors are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology. Some of the highest paying cities for construction inspectors are New York, NY; St. Louis, MO; and San Antonio, TX3.
How to become a Construction Inspector: To become a construction inspector, one usually needs a high school diploma or equivalent and some work experience in a related construction trade. Some employers may prefer candidates who have an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, or a professional certification in a relevant field, such as engineering, architecture, or construction management. Construction inspectors typically learn on the job through training programs or apprenticeships. They may also need to obtain licenses or certifications from state or local authorities or professional organizations, depending on the type and scope of their work2,4.
A civil engineering technologist is a professional who assists civil engineers in planning, designing, and implementing various infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and water systems. They are responsible for performing a range of technical tasks, such as conducting surveys, creating detailed drawings using CAD software, and assisting with project documentation.
Civil engineering technologists typically work under the supervision of civil engineers, who review and approve their work and mentor them. Civil engineering technologists may work for engineering firms, construction companies, government agencies, or as self-employed contractors. They usually spend most of their time in offices, but they also visit construction sites to collect data, monitor progress, and ensure compliance with codes and standards1,2.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of civil engineering technologists and technicians is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032, mainly due to the automation of some tasks and the use of drones and other technologies. However, there will still be a demand for civil engineering technologists and technicians to assist with complex projects and to ensure quality and safety standards.
The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for civil engineering technologists and technicians was $59,630 in May 20223. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the technologist. Some of the highest paying industries for civil engineering technologists are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology.
How to become a Civil Engineering Technologist: To become a civil engineering technologist, one usually needs an associate’s degree in civil engineering technology or a related field from an ABET-accredited program. The program typically takes two to three years to complete and covers topics such as drafting, building materials, construction methods, surveying, cost estimating, and technical report writing. Some employers may prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree or a professional certification in a relevant field1,5.
Civil engineering technologists also need to have certain skills and abilities to perform their job effectively. Some of these skills include:
Analytical skills: Civil engineering technologists need to be able to analyze data, plans, drawings, and specifications to assist with project design and implementation.
Communication skills: Civil engineering technologists need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with civil engineers, project managers, clients, contractors, and other professionals involved in the project.
Detail-oriented skills: Civil engineering technologists need to be able to pay attention to details and ensure accuracy and quality in their work.
Problem-solving skills: Civil engineering technologists need to be able to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the project process.
Technical skills: Civil engineering technologists need to be proficient in using various computer programs and software tools such as CAD software, spreadsheets, databases, surveying equipment, and testing instruments.
A construction laborer is a professional who performs physical labor on construction sites. They may prepare sites by cleaning them, loading or unloading materials, and removing hazards. A construction laborer may also operate some types of equipment, such as forklifts, drills, and jackhammers, or put together and take apart scaffolding and other temporary structures. They are essential to various types of construction projects, such as buildings, roads, bridges, and dams. Construction laborers typically work under the supervision of construction managers or skilled tradesmen, such as carpenters or electricians1,2.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of construction laborers is projected to grow 4% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for construction laborers will depend on the level of construction activity and the need for workers who can perform a variety of tasks.
The average salary for a construction laborer in the United States is $19.25 per hour, or $40,040 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.com4. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the laborer. Some of the highest paying industries for construction laborers are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology. Some of the highest paying cities for construction laborers are New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Washington, DC4.
How to become a Laborer: To become a construction laborer, one usually needs a high school diploma or equivalent and some work experience in a related construction trade. Construction laborers learn their trade through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
On-the-job training typically lasts a few months and covers topics such as safety procedures, tool usage, and site preparation. Apprenticeships usually last between two to five years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices may learn skills such as blueprint reading, building codes, cost estimating, and technical report writing1.
Construction laborers also need to have certain skills and abilities to perform their job effectively. Some of these skills include:
Physical stamina: Construction laborers need to be able to perform strenuous tasks for long periods of time in various weather conditions.
Physical strength: Construction laborers need to be able to lift, carry, and move heavy materials and equipment.
Manual dexterity: Construction laborers need to be able to use their hands and fingers to handle tools and materials.
Coordination: Construction laborers need to be able to coordinate their movements with those of other workers and machines on the site.
Communication: Construction laborers need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with supervisors and co-workers.
Problem-solving: Construction laborers need to be able to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the construction process.
A carpenter is a professional who works with wood and other materials to construct, install, and repair various structures and objects. Carpenters can work on different types of projects, such as buildings, furniture, cabinets, bridges, and ships. Carpenters use many tools, such as saws, drills, chisels, hammers, and levels, to measure, cut, shape, and join materials. Carpenters may also use computer programs and software to design and plan their work. Carpenters typically learn their trade through apprenticeships or on-the-job training1,2.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of carpenters is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032, mainly due to the automation of some tasks and the use of drones and other technologies. However, there will still be a demand for carpenters to assist with complex projects and to ensure quality and safety standards.
The average salary for a carpenter in the United States is $23.48 per hour, or $48,840 per year, according to Indeed.com4. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the carpenter. Some of the highest paying industries for carpenters are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology. Some of the highest paying cities for carpenters are New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Washington, DC5.
How to become a Carpenter: To become a carpenter, one usually needs a high school diploma or equivalent and some work experience in a related construction trade. Carpenters learn their trade through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
On-the-job training typically lasts a few months and covers topics such as safety procedures, tool usage, and site preparation. Apprenticeships usually last between two to five years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices may learn skills such as blueprint reading, building codes, cost estimating, and technical report writing1.
Carpenters also need to have certain skills and abilities to perform their job effectively. Some of these skills include:
Carpenters may also need to obtain licenses or certifications from state or local authorities or professional organizations, depending on the type and scope of their work7.
A construction framer is a professional who works with wood and other materials to construct, install, and repair the frames of buildings and structures. Frames are the skeleton or support system that hold up the walls, floors, roofs, windows, and doors of a building.
Construction framers use various tools, such as saws, hammers, nails, screws, levels, and squares, to measure, cut, shape, and join materials. Construction framers may work on different types of projects, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural buildings. Construction framers typically learn their trade through on-the-job training or apprenticeships1,2.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of carpenters, which includes construction framers, is projected to show little or no change from 2022 to 2032, mainly due to the automation of some tasks and the use of drones and other technologies. However, there will still be a demand for construction framers to assist with complex projects and to ensure quality and safety standards.
The average salary for a construction framer in the United States is $26.48 per hour, or $55,084 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.com4. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the framer. Some of the highest paying industries for construction framers are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology. Some of the highest paying cities for construction framers are New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Washington, DC5.
How to become a Framer: To become a construction framer, one usually needs a high school diploma or equivalent and some work experience in a related construction trade. Construction framers learn their trade through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
On-the-job training typically lasts a few months and covers topics such as safety procedures, tool usage, and site preparation. Apprenticeships usually last between two to five years and combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Apprentices may learn skills such as blueprint reading, building codes, cost estimating, and technical report writing1.
Construction framers also need to have certain skills and abilities to perform their job effectively. Some of these skills include:
Construction framers may also need to obtain licenses or certifications from state or local authorities or professional organizations, depending on the type and scope of their work7.
A construction superintendent is a professional who oversees and coordinates all of the activities of a construction site according to project blueprints and schedule plans. Their duties include coordinating subcontractors, performing quality control and safety checks, providing on-site direction, and communicating with external partners. A construction superintendent may work on different types of projects, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural buildings. A construction superintendent typically learns their trade through formal education and on-the-job training1,2.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of construction managers, which includes construction superintendents, is projected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for construction superintendents will depend on the level of construction activity and the need for workers who can oversee complex projects and ensure quality and safety standards.
The average salary for a construction superintendent in the United States is $94,407 per year, according to Indeed.com4. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the superintendent. Some of the highest paying industries for construction superintendents are legal services, aerospace and defense, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology. Some of the highest paying cities for construction superintendents are New York, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Washington, DC5.
How to become a Superintendent: To become a construction superintendent, one usually needs a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field. Some employers may also consider candidates who have an associate degree or a high school diploma combined with relevant work experience. A construction superintendent also needs to have certain skills and abilities, such as analytical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, and technical skills1.
A construction superintendent may also need to obtain licenses or certifications from state or local authorities or professional organizations, depending on the type and scope of their work7. Some examples of licenses or certifications that may be required or beneficial for a construction superintendent are:
Construction Superintendent Registration from the NYC Department of Buildings
Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from the Construction Management Association of America
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC) from the American Institute of Constructors
OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Training
An assistant superintendent construction is a professional who helps oversee and coordinate the daily operations of a construction site under the direction of the superintendent. They are responsible for tasks such as scheduling, supervising, monitoring, and reporting on the progress and quality of the project.
The average salary for an assistant superintendent construction in the United States is $78,644 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.com1. The salary may vary depending on the industry, location, experience, education, and certification of the assistant superintendent.
How to become an Assistant Superintendent: The requirements to become an assistant superintendent construction typically include experience on a construction job site, an associate degree or higher in construction management or a related field, and knowledge of relevant building codes, safety regulations, and construction standards. Some employers may also prefer candidates who have a professional certification from an authority or organization2.
A Construction Project Manager can specialize in overseeing different types of construction projects, such as civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional. Each type of project may have different specifications, challenges, and opportunities.
For example, civil projects involve public works such as roads, bridges, dams, or airports; industrial projects involve factories, power plants, or refineries; commercial projects involve office buildings, shopping malls, or hotels; residential projects involve houses, apartments, or condos; agricultural projects involve farms, barns, or greenhouses; and institutional projects involve schools, hospitals, or prisons5.
The average salary for a Construction Project Manager in the United States is $92,548 per year3. The salary may vary depending on factors such as level of experience, skill level, employer size and location, and project type.
How to become a Project Manager: To become a Construction Project Manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field such as civil engineering, building science, or construction management1, 2 ,4. Some employers may prefer candidates who have both construction experience and a master’s degree in a related field2. You may also need to obtain professional certifications such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or the Project Management Professional (PMP) to demonstrate your skills and knowledge2.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some of the construction jobs that are most in demand are:
The salaries for these positions can vary based on factors like experience, education, location, and the specific employer. For instance, Construction Managers with more experience and education tend to earn towards the higher end of the salary range. Moreover, certain specialties or certifications may also impact earning potential within these job roles.
The demand for construction jobs tends to be influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, technological advancements, and societal needs. Here are some construction job positions that have been identified as being in demand, based on recent data:
Construction managers are pivotal as they plan, coordinate, and oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards1. Their high demand is also highlighted by the high salaries and the need for more professionals in this role to meet the construction demands of 20232.
With a growing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly building practices, sustainability consultants are becoming more crucial. They advise on the implementation of green building techniques, energy efficiency measures, and the use of sustainable materials1.
As the construction industry becomes more digitized, the demand for technology specialists is increasing. These individuals are responsible for integrating the latest technologies into construction processes to enhance efficiency and precision1.
Quantity surveyors manage all costs related to building and civil engineering projects, working to minimize costs while enhancing value for money and achieving the required standards and quality1.
Civil engineers plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of various structures, and their expertise is vital for the construction industry1.
Architects are in demand for their ability to combine artistic creativity with technical precision to design buildings that meet clients’ needs and appeal to the general public. The demand for unique and sustainable architectural designs keeps this role a top career choice in construction1.
Moreover, there’s a significant need for additional workers in the construction industry to meet the demand for labor in 2023, indicating a general high demand for various construction jobs3. Skilled trades jobs in construction are expected to remain steady or grow over the next decade, further highlighting the continuous demand in this sector4.
The construction industry is a vast field with a plethora of job opportunities catering to different skills, interests, and career goals. Embarking on a career path in construction can be a rewarding decision with long-term benefits. Whether you’re drawn to hands-on fieldwork, project management, design, or sustainability, there’s a niche for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your way towards choosing the right construction job that aligns with your aspirations:
Are you passionate about designing spaces? An Architectural career might suit you.
If you enjoy planning and overseeing projects, consider becoming a Construction Manager.
Those with a knack for sustainability might find fulfillment as a Sustainability Consultant.
Different construction jobs require varying levels of education and training.
For instance, becoming an Architect or Civil Engineer typically requires a bachelor’s degree, while other roles like Electricians or Plumbers may start with apprenticeships.
The construction sector is evolving with technology. Explore roles like Technology Specialist to stay at the forefront of digital transformation in construction.
Engage in internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work in construction to gain practical experience and a better understanding of different roles.
Join construction-related organizations, attend industry events, and seek mentorship to broaden your understanding and connections within the industry.
Look for roles that are in demand, like Construction Managers, Technology Specialists, or Sustainability Consultants, which also offer promising salary prospects.
Reach out to career counselors, industry professionals, or non-profit organizations like ours that provide career knowledge and experience to make informed decisions.
Embrace Continuous Learning:
The construction industry is constantly evolving. Embrace lifelong learning to stay updated with industry standards, certifications, and best practices.
