Careers in Construction
What makes the construction industry different from other industries?
Jobs can't be exported. It's hard to imagine a day where the building needed in Kansas will be built in China and shipped overseas. According to the Buireau for Labor Statistics, the construction industry has been identified as the only goods-producing sector in which employment is expected to grow
between 2002 and 2012.
Careers
The construction industry consists of a tremendous variety of occupations. And while other industries suffer from barriers that limit entry or advancement, the construction industry is filled with people who came in at the bottom and worked their way up the ladder of success. Information on some of the basic construction occupations follows.
Construction Laborers Equipment Operators Heavy Equipment Mechanics Concrete Finishers Carpenters Masons Ironworkers Fabricators/Welders Surveyors Electricians Plumbers/Pipefitters Sheet Metal Workers HVAC Technicians Roofers Painters Glaziers Estimators Construction Engineers Project Managers
Construction Laborers are the backbone of the industry and a laborer’s value comes from his or her ability to perform a wide variety of tasks as needed. Many laborers get their first job without any construction experience and quickly gain advanced skills by working alongside journeymen and more skilled workers. They learn the steps involved in concrete or asphalt paving, building forms or scaffolding, laying pipe, reading blueprints, using tools and operating equipment. A good laborer creates opportunities by establishing a reputation as a dependable hard worker who is willing to take the initiative and contribute to the successful completion of the task or project. Basic reading and math skills are indispensable for work as a laborer. Laborers who excel and show a particular interest and aptitude in certain tasks (i.e., carpentry, concrete,ironwork) receive opportunities for specialized training.
Equipment Operators run the machines (excavators, cranes, dozers, wheel loaders, haul trucks, pavers, rollers, etc.) used in construction. The equipment they handle is expensive and highly technical so operators need a high level of skill and coordination as well as the ability to work independently and remain alert. Skilled operators are in great demand throughout Kansas and generally learn their trade through on-the-job training and short courses. Experience operating farm equipment can be an asset to a beginning operator and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) can help move an applicant up the hiring list.
Heavy Equipment Mechanics repair and maintain the some of the largest equipment manufactured. Mechanics must be expert in diesel engines, hydraulics and electronics. They must also be skilled in operating and interpreting computer diagnostic programs. Training is obtained through service schools, technical programs and on the job.
Concrete Finishers shape wet concrete into a level and smooth surface. They must have a thorough knowledge of concrete, its characteristics, the stages of its curing process, and ways to maximize its service life. Training is obtained on the job as a helper and/or through specialized training programs.
Carpenters cut, fit and assemble wood and other building materials to make frames and foundations for buildings, install trim and maintain and repair structures. Carpenters must be versatile and need to know how to use different tools, read blueprints and change structures. They should also be physically fit and have good communications skills. Some carpenters learn their trade through years of working with more experienced carpenters. Others learn through craft and apprenticeship programs including classroom and on-the-job training.
Masons (bricklayers or stone and block masons) build walls of brick, stone and concrete block. Much of the work is done by hand and is labor intensive so masons must be physically fit. They must also have good math skills and be able to read blueprints. Masons learn their craft through apprenticeship programs.
Ironworkers move and install steel beams and girders on building frames and bridges. They may also install preconstructed materials such as ornamental iron. Reinforcing ironworkers install the rebar and reinforcing steel that strengthen concrete in walls, piers and roads. Ironworkers must be physically fit and must be familiar with drafting, blueprint reading, welding and riveting. Ironworkers learn their trade through apprenticeship programs which include classroom and on-the-job training.
Fabricators/Welders join components together by applying heat or pressure and entry-level welders must have a complete understanding of welding principles and the ability to perform a variety of assembly-type welds. Welders learn their craft through technical training and apprenticeship programs.
Surveyors establish the boundaries of a project before the job begins and measure distances and elevations as the job progresses. They use numerous tools including levels, transits, lasers, and calculators. With the advances in satellite-based positioning systems, the surveyors’ work has become easier and more complex at the same time. Surveyors skills must include math, communications and computer knowledge. They learn their trade through technical training and on-the-job training.
Electricians plan the electrical systems for structures and install wiring and other components. They must be familiar with local and national codes. Electricians learn their trade through craft and apprenticeship programs which provide classroom and on-the-job training with experienced electricians.
Plumbers and Pipefitters install and maintain pipe systems and pipe supports. They also install and maintain related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment for steam, hot water, heating, cooling, lubricating, and industrial production systems. Plumbers/Pipefitters learn their trade through craft and apprenticeship programs which provide classroom and on-the-job training with more experienced craftspeople.
Sheet Metal Workers make and install sheet metal products such as roofs, air ducts, gutters, and vents. They usually specialize in certain areas, such as making heating and air conditioning ducts, gutters, or metal roofs. Sheet Metal Workers must be versatile and need to know how to use different tools, read blueprints and change structures. They should also be physically fit and have good communications skills. Some sheet metal workers learn their trade through years of working with more experienced craftspeople. Others learn through craft and apprenticeship programs including classroom and on-the-job training.
HVAC Technicians install, service, and repair heating and air-conditioning systems. Furnace installers, also called heating equipment technicians, follow blueprints or other specifications to install oil, gas, electric, solid-fuel, and multiple-fuel heating systems. Air-conditioning mechanics install and service central air-conditioning systems. After putting the equipment in place, they install fuel and water supply lines, air ducts and vents, pumps, and other components. They may connect electrical wiring and controls and check the unit for proper operation. To ensure the proper functioning of the system, furnace installers often use combustion test equipment, such as carbon dioxide and oxygen testers. HVAC Technicians learn their trade through craft and apprenticeship programs, technical and vocational training programs which provide classroom and on-the-job training with experienced craftspeople.
Roofers apply built-up composition roofing and many other materials such as tile, slate, composition shingles, metals and plastics. They use power-operated tools including hoists, lifts, compressors and spray rigs. Training can be acquired informally, on the job or by attending trade or vocational/technical courses and/or apprenticeship programs. Roofers need good math skills, blueprint reading and general building skills.
Painters do more than just apply coatings to surfaces. They must also decide what type of paint or coating to apply to the surface depending on how the environment will affect the coating. They must be able to work with a variety of hand and power tools to prepare surfaces for painting.
Glaziers select, cut, install and replace all types of glass on a project. They may also work with plastics, granite, marble and other materials. Many glaziers learn their craft on the job though formal training and apprenticeships are available.
Estimators compile lists of job costs based on project drawings and an understanding of construction techniques and costs, providing information crucial to bidding on projects. Estimating can be a high-stress position and requires a solid background in math, drafting, blueprint reading and computer skills. Formal educational courses combined with on-the-job training and experience are good preparation.
Construction Engineers, or project engineers, help plan projects from design to completion. They assist in site planning and layout, cost estimating and control, and procurement of equipment and materials. Construction engineers usually begin by assisting a project superintendent, project manager or field engineer.
Project Manager, Superintendent or Foreman can refer to the person responsible for all aspects of completing a specific task or an entire construction project. They may supervise a crew of craftsworkers on a jobsite or they may manage numerous projects. These managers know all aspects of the business and have typically gained their knowledge by working their way up through one or more trades. Many construction industry employees aim for these jobs as a career goal and many reach that goal.