Your Complete Guide to Jobs in Construction

Construction has always been a promising career path for people who are interested in the fields of engineering, design, and architecture. This sector is one of the biggest pillars of the global economy, offering a vast range of employment opportunities across the globe.

With the increasing demand for projects, the industry is always in search of skillful workers who can get the job done. In this blog, we will go in-depth with a construction jobs list, salary information, and job-search resources.

Table of Contents

• Entry-Level Construction Jobs
• Mid-Level and Skilled Construction Jobs
• Administration Jobs in Construction
• Design Jobs in Construction
• Best Paid Jobs in Construction
• Who is Construction Work For?
• Why Choose a Job in Construction?

Quick Resources

From office positions to trade specialties, find out what job suits you best in our comprehensive quiz.

Entry-level Construction Jobs

Starting your career in the construction industry requires a lot of commitment and dedication to learning the basics. Entry-level construction jobs include laborers and apprenticeships where workers can gain experience while working on the project site.

All salary information listed is based on Glassdoor Salary Estimates. Visit Glassdoor for current salary information and updates.

1. Bricklayer

A bricklayer is a skilled tradesman who specializes in constructing and repairing structures using bricks, concrete blocks, and other masonry materials.

Key responsibilities include:

• Measuring and planning
• Mixing mortar
• Cutting and shaping
• Repair & Restoration

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $39K-61K/year

2. Stone Mason

A stone mason works with natural or artificial stone materials to create various structures, sculptures, and architectural features.

Key responsibilities include:

• Cutting and shaping stone
• Dry stone masonry
• Layout and design
• Foundation work
• Sculpture and Artistry

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $39K-54K/year
Related titles: Stone Mason Assistant – Median pay ($49,000)

3. Carpenter 

Carpenters are skilled tradespeople who work with wood and other materials to build, install, repair, and maintain various structures and fixtures.

Key responsibilities include:

• Construction framing
• Installation: Carpet, windows, cabinets, countertops, fixtures.
• Repair & Maintenance
• Woodworking
• Blueprinting

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $44K-66K/year
Related titles: Carpenter Foreman -Median pay ($74,000), Journeyman Carpenter ($69,000)

4. Concrete Pump Operator

A Concrete Pump Operator is responsible for operating concrete pumps, which are used to transfer concrete from a mixing truck to a location on a construction site.

Key responsibilities include:

• Concrete delivery
• Operating concrete pumps
• Equipment safety and maintenance
• Coordination with construction crew

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $47K-75K/year
Related titles: Concrete Finisher – Median pay ($50,952), Concrete Laborer ($47,176) Concrete Cutting Machine Operator ($43,227)

5. Roofing Specialist

Roofing Specialists are experts in all aspects of roofing, from the selection of roofing materials to proper installation and ongoing maintenance.

Key duties of a Roofing Specialist include:

• Roof inspection
• Material selection
• Roof installation
• Roof repair and maintenance
• Weatherproofing
• Gutter and downspout maintenance

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $45K-68K/year
Related titles: Roofing Laborer – Median pay ($39,793), Journeyman Roofer ($60,104), Commercial Roofer ($48,488), Roof Tiler ($58,350)

6. Metal Fabricator 

Metal fabricators work with various types of metal, such as steel and aluminum to create a wide range of products and structures.

Responsibilities of a Metal Fabricator include:

• Interpreting blueprints and plans
• Matieral selection
• Cutting and shaping metal
• Forming and bending metal
• Welding and joining
• Assembling, finishing, and polishing
• Quality control

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $41K-59K/year
Related titles: Sheet Metal Worker – Median pay ($49,236), Sheet Metal Mechanic ($61,554)

Click to read about in-demand construction certifications for trade specialists and office admin.

7. Welder 

A welder specializes in joining metals by using various welding processes. Welding is a critical technique used in manufacturing, construction, and a wide range of industries to create strong and permanent bonds.

Key duties of a Welder include::

• Reading blueprints and plans
• Material preparation
• Selecting welding equipment
• Welding techniques: bead welding, groove welding, etc
• Precision and measurement
• Quality control

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $52K-76K/year
Related titles: Fitter/Welder – Median pay ($56,593), Structural Welder ($55,260), Welder/Fabricator ($52,367)

8. Forklift Operator

A forklift operator is responsible for operating a forklift, a powered industrial truck used for the safe movement of heavy materials and goods.

Key responsibilities of a forklift operator include:

• Material handling
• Loading and unloading
• Inventory management

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $36K-50K/year

9. Mobile Crane Operator

A mobile crane operator is responsible for operating mobile cranes, which are lifting equipment used in industries such as construction and manufacturing.

Key duties of a mobile crane operator include:

• Safe crane operation
• Load management
• Inspecting crane equipment
• Setup and rigging
• Hoisting and lifting heavy material/equipment

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $53K-85K/year

10. Rigger

A Rigger specializes in the task of moving and positioning heavy equipment and materials using various tools and equipment. Rigging is a critical component of many industries, including construction.

Key tasks of a Rigger include:

• Material handling
• Equipment operation: cranes, hoists, winches, pulleys, ropes
• Safety and planning
• Inspecting equipment
• Knot tying and slinging

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $45K-70K/year

11. Surveyor

A construction surveyor, also known as a land surveyor or site surveyor, plays a crucial role in construction by providing accurate measurements, data, and mapping of land and structures.

Key duties of a surveyor include:

• Site analysis
• Boundary and property line survey
• Construction site marking
• Legal documentation

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $60K-93K/year

Want to boost your construction vocabulary? Here are 100 construction terms you should know! From foundation to finishing touches, we cover everyday terms used in the industry.

Mid-level and Skilled Construction Jobs

Mid-level and skilled jobs in the construction industry entail greater responsibilities and tasks, including planning, designing, and analyzing. Some of the mid-level jobs include project managers, estimators, and site supervisors.

Project managers oversee large construction projects and ensure the completion of the project within the given timeline, while estimators assign costs of materials and labor to the project. Site supervisors monitor project timelines, budgets, and job site safety to ensure everything flows according to plan. Other skilled jobs in the construction industry include plumbers, electricians, architects, and forepersons.

12. Electrician

An electrician specializes in working with electrical systems, wiring, and related equipment. Electricians are responsible for a wide range of tasks in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Key responsibilities of an electrician:

• Installation of wiring, control, and lighting systems
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance
• Upgrades and Retrofits
• Specialized Skill: solar panel installation, industrial automation.

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $50K-79K/year
Related titles: Apprentice Electrician – Median pay ($53,000), Journeyman Electrician ($71,511)

13. Plumber 

Plumbers play a crucial role in construction projects by ensuring that a building’s plumbing systems are installed, maintained, and functioning correctly.

Key responsibilities of a plumber:

• Pipefitting and installation
• Connecting fixtures such as sinks and water heaters.
• Repairs and maintenance.

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $49K-72K/year
Related titles: Licensed Plumber – Median pay ($78,072), Master Plumber ($107,489), Apprentice Plumber ($54,326)

14. HVAC Technician

HVAC(Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians, or HVAC contractors, are responsible for creating a comfortable and controlled indoor environment within buildings.

Key responsibilities of an HVAC technician include:

• Heating system installation and maintenance
• Cooling system installation and maintenance
• Ventilation and ductwork
• Thermostat installation
• Energy systems integration

Salary information: Glassdoor Payrange Est: $63K-90K/year
Related titles: HVAC Installer – Median pay ($53,742), HVAC Mechanic ($71,889), HVAC Service technician ($98,262)

15. Site Supervisor

A construction site supervisor or site manager oversees and manages various aspects of construction projects. They work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to understand project requirements, timelines, and budgets.

Key duties and responsibilities of a site supervisor:

• Project planning and coordination
• Construction team supervision
• Quality control & Safety compliance
• Budget & Cost control
• Scheduling.

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $42K-63K/year
Related titles: Site Manager – Median pay ($67,645), Site Engineer ($102,358), Civil Supervisor ($75,292)

16. Construction Foreman

A construction foreman, often referred to as just “foreman”, is a key position in the construction industry responsible for supervising and coordinating the work on a construction site. 

Key responsibilities of a Foreman include:

• Supervising crews and subcontractors
• Scheduling
• Safety compliance
• Record keeping
• Quality control
• Equipment management
• Cost control
• Training crew

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $53K-82K/year

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17. Project Estimator 

A construction project estimator is responsible for determining the cost of a construction project before it begins. Their primary role is to analyze project plans and their requirements to calculate expenses associated with materials, labor, equipment, and other resources.

Key duties of a project estimator include:

• Document Review: architecture/engineering plans, all project related plans.
• Measurement and calculations
• Estimating costs of material, labor, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Bid preparation
• Client interaction
• Cost Analysis
• Presentation

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $72K-113K/year
Related titles: Cost Estimator – Median pay ($76,768), Construction Project Manager ($88,387)

Administration Jobs in Construction

Aside from skilled and mid-level jobs, the construction industry offers administrative jobs for those who wish to work behind the scenes. These jobs include human resources, office manager, and accounting.

18. Human Resources (HR) Specialist

The construction industry relies on HR professionals to manage and support a skilled and diverse workforce and ensure compliance with labor laws and safety regulations.

Key responsibilities of an HR Professional include:

• Recruitment and staffing
• Onboarding and orientation
• Training and development
• Labor relations: (such as union agreements and negotiations)
• Payroll and benefits
• Diversity and inclusion
• Employee relations and engagement

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $49K-72K/year
Related titles: HR Manager – Median pay ($88,500), HR Assistant ($50,703)

19. Office Manager

An office manager serves as a key administrative and organizational figure responsible for the smooth functioning of the office and supporting construction projects. encompasses various responsibilities that help manage office operations.

Key tasks of an office manager include:

• Administrative support: schedule meetings, appointments, and organize calendars
• Document management
• Communication: Act as point of contact for internal and external communication
• Filing and records management
• Vendor and contractor relations
• Purchasing and inventory management

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $43K-66K/year
Related titles: Business Office Manager – Median pay ($60,237), Office Executive ($62,427)

20. Accountant

Accountants in the construction industry play a critical role in managing the financial aspects of construction projects and construction companies.

Tasks of an Accountant include:

• Financial reporting: prepare financial statements, income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Cost analysis
• Job costing
• Billing and invoicing
• Accounts payable and receivable
• Tax compliance
• Payroll and benefits

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $50K-77K/year
Related titles: Accounting Clerk – Median pay ($46,615), Junior Accountant ($54,607), Staff Accountant ($63,117)

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Design Jobs in Construction

21. Architect 

Architects are responsible for designing the overall look and layout of buildings. They work with clients to understand their needs and preferences and then create detailed plans, drawings, and 3D models. Architects also consider structural and environmental factors in their designs.

Key duties of an architect include:

• Client consultation
• Site analysis
• Conceptual design
• Space planning
• Schematic design
• Coordination with engineers and designers

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $84K-140K/year
Related titles: Architect Designer – Median pay ($92,991), Architectural Drafter ($60,115)

22. Interior Designer

Interior designers create functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces for homes, offices, retail spaces, and other business environments. Their primary goal is to enhance the quality of interior spaces while meeting the specific needs and preferences of their clients.

Key responsibilities of an interior designer include:

• Client consultation
• Space planning
• Color and material selection
• Furniture and fixture selection
• Lighting design
• Create design concepts/visuals
• Project & budget management

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $54K-83K/year
Related titles: Design Assistant – Median pay ($49,487), Interior Design Associate ($54,840), Space Planner ($62,596)

23. Landscaper

Landscapers specialize in the design, installation, and maintenance of outdoor spaces, with a focus on enhancing the aesthetics, functionality, and overall appeal of gardens, lawns, and outdoor environments.

Responsibilities of a landscaper include:

• Consultation and design
• Plant selection
• Hardscape (decks, patios, wall) design
• Irrigation systems
• Mulching and ground cover
• Maintenance and care

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $32K-49K/year
Related titles: Landscape Laborer – Median pay ($41,056), Landscape Janitor ($36,121), Landscape Designer ($51,425)

24. Environmental Designer

Environmental designers specialize in creating designs and spaces that promote sustainability, ecological consciousness, and harmony with the natural environment.

Key responsibilities of an environmental designer include:

• Sustainable design
• Site assessment
• Site planning
• Eco-friendly landscape design
• Water conservation design
• Biodiversity enhancement
• Green building certification

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $57K-86K/year

25. Urban Planner

Urban planners are responsible for developing and implementing plans and strategies to shape the physical, social, and economic aspects of cities and urban areas.

Responsibilities of an Urban Planner include:

• Land use planning
• Community development
• Infrastructure planning
• Transportation planning
• Historic preservation
• Urban design
• Economic development: attract businesses, boost economic activities.

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $57K-88K/year
Related titles:  Assistant Urban Planner – Median pay ($58,831), Urban Designer ($82,895), Urban and Regional Planner ($100,976)

26. Lighting Designer

Lighting designers are professionals who specialize in creating and implementing lighting solutions for various spaces and environments.

Key duties of a lighting designer include:

• Client consultation
• Lighting plans and layout
• Color temperature light selection
• Natural light integration
• Accent lighting and special effects

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $61K-100K/year
Related titles: Architectural Lighting Designer – Median pay ($82,454), Junior Lighting Designer ($56,859), Lighting Technician ($56,297)

27. CAD Designer

CAD (Computer-Adided Design) designers, also known as CAD drafters or CAD technicians play a crucial role in the design and development of products, buildings, infrastructure, and more. They use specialized computer software.

Job duties of a CAD Designer include:

• Creating technical drawings
• Product design
• Architectural design
• Mechanical design
• Create Computer simulations

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $53K-79K/year
Related titles: CAD Drafter – Median pay ($57,890), CAD Manager ($79,433), CAD Operator ($53,839)

28. BIM Modeler 

A BIM (Building Information Modeling) modeler specializes in creating and managing digital representations of buildings and infrastructure using BIM software. BIM modelers play a vital role in the design, construction, and maintenance of architectural and engineering projects.

Key duties of a BIM Modeler include:

• Creating 3D models
• Data integration
• Building systems coordination
• Parametric modeling
• Cost estimation

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $56K-87K/year
Related titles: Senior BIM Modeler – Median pay ($87,005), BIM Specialist ($68,681), BIM Technician ($56,278)

Related: 6 Best Apps for Construction Contractors

What Jobs Make the Most in Construction?

Construction jobs that require specialization or expertise often come with a high salary range. These jobs include construction managers and engineers, who design and implement projects while ensuring quality and safety on the job site. Civil engineers, for instance, handle large-scale projects like highways and bridges, while electrical engineers and mechanical engineers manage the installation and maintenance of electrical and mechanical equipment. These jobs require years of experience and education, but the earnings can range from $70,000 to $150,000 or higher.

29. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

CCMs are responsible for overseeing various aspects of construction projects, from planning and design to execution and completion.

Key responsibilities of a CCM include:

• Project planning
• Budgeting and Cost control
• Procurement: Selecting & managing subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
• Quality control
• Documentation & Compliance

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $85K-140K/year

30. Certified Safety Manager (CSM)

Safety managers in construction enforce safety policies, practices, and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries.

Key duties of a certified safety manager include:

• Developing safety policies and procedures
• Regulatory compliance
• Risk/Hazard Assessment
• Safety training
• Incident investigation
• Safety audits and inspections.

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $66K-108K/year

31. Civil Engineer

Civil engineers play a crucial role in planning, designing, managing, and overseeing various types of infrastructure and construction projects.

Civil engineer key duties include:

• Project planning
• Design
• Engineering:
• Structural
• Transportation design
• Address environmental concerns.
• Construction management.

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $81K-122K/year

32. Structural Engineer

Structural engineers specialize in the design, analysis, and assessment of structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, towers, and other infrastructure. Their focus is on ensuring the safety, stability, and durability of these structures.

Key responsibilities of a structural engineer include:

• Designing structural systems
• Calculation and analysis
• Material selection
• Construction planning
• Safety compliance
• Quality Control
• Seismic and wind analysis
• Foundation design

Salary information: Glassdoor Est: $87K-122K/year
Related titles: Structural Analysis Engineer – Median pay ($104,452), Structural Design Engineer ($97,233)

Who is Construction Work for?

Construction work is a great fit for anyone who enjoys working with their hands and being part of a team. It’s also a great choice for people who are looking for a career that offers stability, job security, and room for advancement. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, the construction industry has opportunities for everyone.

Why Choose a Job in Construction?

There are countless reasons to choose a job in construction. For starters, construction jobs offer competitive salaries, benefits packages, and job security. In addition, the construction industry is constantly evolving, which means there’s always room for growth and advancement.

Finally, construction work can be incredibly rewarding, both financially and emotionally. From building homes to creating new landmarks, construction has the power to shape the world around us.

Building Communities

Construction projects often involve the development of essential infrastructure like roads, bridges, public transportation systems, water supply, sewage systems, and more. These infrastructure improvements enhance the quality of life for residents, make communities more accessible, and promote economic development.

Key Takeaways

The construction industry is a versatile field of work that offers numerous opportunities for job seekers and employees in general. This sector makes a significant contribution to the global economy, with constant growth in demand for infrastructure projects.

The industry provides an extensive range of jobs that cater to different specializations, experiences, and career goals. From entry-level positions to high-paying upper-level management jobs, the construction industry’s job list is diverse and varying. Hopefully, this guide will help you identify your potential career path in the construction industry that fits your expertise, skills, and interests.