While employment depends on levels of new construction and renovations, the number of jobs in the industry is expected to increase by 2018 (Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2010). Before enrolling in the training program of your choice, assessing working conditions in the construction industry can help you understand if these jobs are right for you.
Career Paths in the Construction Industry Construction jobs fall into three major categories: • General building contractors, who build residential, industrial and commercial buildings • Heavy construction contractors, who build sewers, roads, highways, bridges and tunnels • Special trade contractors, who conduct specialized work like carpentry, painting, plumbing and electrical work.
General contractors specialize in one type of construction like residential or industrial building. They're often responsible for the whole job and typically subcontract some work to specialty trade contractors. Specialty trade contractors usually specialize in one trade.
Working Conditions Due to the nature of the industry's deadlines, around 18 percent of construction workers work over 45 hours per week (BLS, 2010). Weather conditions often determine when construction can occur because much of the work is outside or in partially enclosed structures. If you currently live in an area that experiences longer winters, take extras steps to budget your salary as many workers become unemployed or don't get paid during inclement weather.
You'll need to be comfortable working in a team, as construction jobs require teams of workers to work together to complete a structure. Be prepared to handle strict weekly deadlines to ensure that your area of work is completed so other teams can begin their tasks.
Physical Demands Construction jobs require strength and stamina. Workers often stand for long periods of time and may have to lift heavy objects, bend and stoop to perform essential job duties. Some work sites include areas at great heights or underground, requiring the ability to move around safely on all kinds of surfaces. Construction workers should be fairly agile and have good hand-eye coordination to avoid accidents.
Many construction workers use potentially dangerous tools and equipment, often on temporary scaffolding above the ground. Construction workers have an above average work-related injury and illness rate compared to other occupations. Construction industry workers make up over 10 percent of the 3.9 million total annual non-fatal workplace injuries (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2006). Safety measures like wearing hardhats, goggles or masks are put into place at work sites to ensure employee protection.
Fully understanding working conditions in the construction industry before you start job training can make you a better candidate. Securing training for work in the construction industry can be done through hands-on experience, schooling or both.