Written by Skylar Anderson, AMAST Content
Construction is a vital part of the framework of our society. Construction elements result in everything from the breathtaking architecture of influential cities, to the sink fixture in your home bathroom. With the demand for construction jobs on the rise, the benefits of a career in construction are now more accessible than ever. Job security, fair wages and straightforward entry requirements are only just a few of these advantages. Check out AMAST’s list of some of these top jobs in construction.
Construction Manager
Performance: Construction managers design, facilitate, allocate budgets for, and oversee projects from beginning to end. They also work directly with clients and other specialists to discuss development progress, and supervise workers on and safety measures and legal requirements.
Pay: The median annual wage is $95,260.
Requirements: There are various ways to obtain a role in construction management. Successful Construction Managers have a bachelor’s degree in a construction-related subject and/or a list of relevant experience.
Electrician
Performance: Electricians usually work within homes and larger businesses, installing and fixing electrical power and lighting and control systems. They also work with wires and fixtures, using a variety of power and hand tools.
Pay: The median annual wage is $56,180.
Requirements: Successful electricians learn through hands-on work or apprenticeship experience. Technical school programs are also an option. Most U.S. states also require electricians to be licensed, so be sure to check your own guidelines.
Plumber
Performance: Using mainly pipes, plumbers work with water, gas and other substances to create and maintain plumbing systems. Other essential fixtures like dishwashers, sinks and bathtubs are also typically installed by plumbers.
Pay: The median annual wage is $55,160.
Requirements: Plumbers usually learn the trade through a years-long apprenticeship or vocational-technical school courses. Having a plumbing license is also a requirement in most states, along with passing an exam before working independently.
Carpenter
Performance: Carpenters design, repair and install frameworks and other structures composed of wood and different materials. Structures include walls, floors, door frames, windows, cabinets and molding.
Pay: The median annual wage is $48,330.
Requirements: Although carpenters usually learn their trade through apprenticeship experience, where practicing includes learning building code requirements and basic carpentry skills, most work their way up at a relatively swift pace to completing more complex tasks, such as constructing intricate wooden structures and working with fragile glass.
Ironworker
Performance: Ironworkers’ primary materials are steel and iron, which are used to build and reinforce structures including buildings, roads and bridges. Ironworkers also have expertise in cutting and welding these strong materials.
Pay: The median annual wage is $49,100.
Requirements: While on-the-job training is required to be an ironworker, completion of mathematics and welding courses are also preferred. Numerous certifications are also available (and look great to potential employers).
Equipment Operator
Performance: Equipment operators drive and maneuver large machinery to transport weighty materials and pieces to build streets, buildings and any other structure that requires sturdy segments. Heavy machinery can include bulldozers, forklifts, excavators, dump trucks and concrete mixers.
Pay: The median annual wage is $48,160.
Requirements: A high-school diploma is typically required to be an equipment operator, along with experience in an apprenticeship. Education is also an option, with many schools offering special courses in specific types of machinery. A knowledge of auto mechanics is also a plus.
Glazier
Performance: Glaziers work predominantly with glass. Glaziers install specific types of glass products in windows, skylights, dividers, railings and floors in both residential and commercial buildings.
Pay: The median annual wage is $44,630.
Requirements: Glaziers must have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with extensive experience through on-the-job training. Receiving optional certification in special programs to exhibit proficiency could also increase opportunities.
Mason
Performance: Sometimes also advertised as mason workers or bricklayers, masons work exclusively with bricks, concrete, rocks and other manmade materials to build and repair walls, walkways, fireplaces and other structures. They also lay out patterns, clean and polish surfaces and analyze blueprints.
Pay: The median annual wage is $46,500.
Requirements: In order to be a mason, a high-school diploma is typically required, along with some apprenticeship training. There are also many masonry programs available through technical schools.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and eSub
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