10 Types of Construction Jobs (with Responsibilities & Salaries)

The construction industry is a vast and diverse field, encompassing a wide range of job roles and career paths. From the planning stages to the final touches, construction projects require a skilled team of professionals to ensure that each aspect runs smoothly and aligns with the overall project objectives. Whether it's commercial, industrial, private, or civil engineering projects, construction jobs cater to a variety of interests, skill sets, and career aspirations.

In this article will delve into the different types of construction jobs, exploring the roles, responsibilities, and skills required for each position.

Different Types of Construction Jobs in 2024

The construction industry is vast and offers a diverse range of career options. In 2024, various construction jobs will continue to be in high demand. Here are some popular construction jobs that will remain relevant and provide employment opportunities in the coming years.

Construction Worker: The most common role in construction, these workers perform the primary physical tasks like clearing, digging, and building. They can also focus on specific fields such as carpentry, masonry, or heavy equipment operation. The national average salary for construction workers is $15.53 per hour.

Construction Manager: Overseeing the entirety of a construction project, managers will supervise workers, develop budgets, and coordinate with engineers and architects to ensure the project runs smoothly. They may work on diverse projects such as residential, institutional, industrial, and civil projects, including major renovations or new constructions.

Demolition Contractor: Responsible for clearing away existing structures before starting a new project, demolition contractors must possess knowledge of safely dismantling buildings, handling hazardous materials, and recycling or disposing of waste. The national average salary for a demolition contractor is $29,828 per year.

Civil Engineer: These professionals design, develop, and oversee infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, dams, and airports. They ensure that the project remains structurally sound, meets environmental standards, and adheres to relevant safety regulations while staying within budget constraints.

Electrical and Mechanical Contractors: These specialized contractors work in different aspects of building systems, like heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and electrical systems. They are crucial for ensuring the long-term efficiency and safety of commercial, industrial, and residential structures.

Green Building Professionals: With an increased emphasis on sustainability, the demand for green building professionals will grow in 2024. This can include roles like green building consultant, LEED accredited professional, or energy auditor.

Construction Industry Jobs List: 11 Types of Construction Workers (W/Salaries and Responsibilities)

1. Construction Superintendent

A construction superintendent supervises a construction site and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a project, from planning and scheduling to ensuring quality workmanship and safety. They typically have extensive experience in the field and strong leadership skills.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $80,000 – $100,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Manage construction crew, subcontractors, and site activities

• Develop and update project schedule

• Ensure projects meet safety regulations and building codes

• Communicate progress to project stakeholders

• Address and resolve issues that arise during construction

Role examples:

• Commercial building superintendent

• Residential construction superintendent

• Infrastructure project superintendent

2. Project Engineer

Project engineers are responsible for coordinating and supervising engineering tasks within a construction project. They ensure that designs are implemented according to specifications and that projects are completed within budget and deadline constraints.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $65,000 – $85,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage project plans

• Coordinate with architects, consultants, and contractors

• Review and approve design and engineering documentation

• Monitor project progress and budget

• Address and resolve technical issues during construction

Role examples:

• Civil project engineer

• Mechanical project engineer

• Structural project engineer

3. Construction Estimator

Construction estimators are responsible for calculating the cost of materials, labor, and equipment needed for a construction project. They use their expertise in construction materials, processes, and techniques to provide accurate cost estimates for a project.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $55,000 – $75,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze project specifications and plans

• Estimate material, labor, and equipment costs

• Prepare project budgets and bid proposals

• Evaluate and negotiate subcontractor bids

• Monitor and adjust cost estimates as the project progresses

Role examples:

• Commercial construction estimator

• Residential construction estimator

• Infrastructure project estimator

4. Construction Inspector

Construction inspectors ensure that construction projects comply with relevant building codes, safety regulations, and quality standards. They monitor construction progress and conduct inspections at various stages of the project to ensure compliance.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $50,000 – $70,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Review project plans, specifications, and permits

• Inspect construction sites for code compliance and safety

• Issue violation notices and stop-work orders if necessary

• Maintain records of inspections and findings

• Communicate inspection results to project stakeholders

Role examples:

• Building inspector

• Electrical inspector

• Plumbing inspector

5. Journeyman Electrician

Journeyman electricians are experienced and licensed professionals who install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They can work independently or as part of a team and must follow safety protocols and local electrical codes.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $45,000 – $65,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Install and maintain electrical systems

• Troubleshoot and repair electrical problems

• Read and interpret electrical drawings and schematics

• Adhere to local electrical codes and safety guidelines

• Train and supervise apprentice electricians

Role examples:

• Commercial electrician

• Residential electrician

• Industrial electrician

6. Plumber

Plumbers are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining water supply, drainage, and sewage systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They troubleshoot and repair plumbing issues and must follow local plumbing codes and safety regulations.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $40,000 – $60,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Install and maintain plumbing systems

• Diagnose and repair plumbing issues

• Follow local plumbing codes and safety regulations

• Read and interpret blueprints and schematics

• Estimate and track materials and labor costs

Role examples:

• Residential plumber

• Commercial plumber

• Service plumber

7. Pipefitter

Pipefitters are skilled tradespeople responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining piping systems that carry liquids or gases. They often work in industrial settings and may specialize in various piping materials, such as steel, copper, or plastic.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $45,000 – $65,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Design, install, and maintain piping systems

• Fabricate and assemble piping components

• Troubleshoot and repair piping issues

• Read and interpret blueprints and schematics

• Ensure compliance with industry codes and standards

Role examples:

• Steamfitter

• Gasfitter

• Sprinkler fitter

8. Equipment Operator

Equipment operators are responsible for operating heavy construction machinery, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes. They must be skilled in the operation and maintenance of various equipment types and must be able to work safely and efficiently.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $35,000 – $55,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and maintain construction equipment

• Follow safety protocols and regulations

• Coordinate with construction crew and supervisors

• Perform routine equipment inspections and maintenance

• Load and unload materials and equipment

Role examples:

• Crane operator

• Bulldozer operator

• Excavator operator

9. Construction Laborer

Construction laborers perform a variety of tasks on construction sites, such as digging, lifting and carrying materials, and assisting with the installation and teardown of equipment. They often work under the supervision of construction supervisors or skilled tradespeople.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $30,000 – $45,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Perform manual labor tasks on construction sites

• Load and unload materials and equipment

• Assist skilled tradespeople as needed

• Follow safety guidelines and procedures

• Keep construction sites clean and organized

Role examples:

• General construction laborer

• Road construction laborer

• Demolition laborer

10. Civil Engineer

Civil engineers are responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of public and private infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and utilities. They collaborate with architects, construction managers, and other professionals to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications.

Salary: The average salary range for this role is $60,000 – $90,000 per year.

Responsibilities:

• Design and evaluate infrastructure projects

• Develop project plans, specifications, and cost estimates

• Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and other professionals

• Ensure projects comply with relevant codes, regulations, and standards

• Monitor and evaluate project progress

Role examples:

• Transportation engineer

• Structural engineer

• Environmental engineer

Key Takeaways on Types of Jobs in Construction

The construction industry offers a diverse range of job opportunities, catering to individuals with different skills, interests, and career goals. 

In addition to the roles mentioned above, there are also opportunities for specialists in fields like HVAC, ironworking, landscaping, and painting. With so many options, the construction industry caters to a wide range of interests and abilities, providing ample opportunities for growth and a rewarding career.

FAQs

What Job Makes the Most in Construction?

The highest-paying construction job is the senior project manager. On average, a senior project manager earns $102,862 annually. While a post-secondary education is expected for this role, it is not necessarily required. Many senior project managers also hold master's degrees, making education beneficial for this position.

What Are the 10 Fastest Growing Careers in the Construction Industry?

1. Construction laborer

2. Roofer

3. Carpenter

4. Electrician

5. Painter

6. Plumber

7. HVAC technician

8. Construction manager

9. Heavy equipment operator

10. General contractor

These careers face significant demand and offer opportunities for growth as the construction industry continues to expand.

What Is the Happiest Construction Trade?

While it is difficult to determine a specific trade as the happiest in the construction industry, job satisfaction generally depends on factors such as job security, work environment, compensation, and personal fulfillment. Trades that offer good work-life balance and opportunities for personal and professional growth can contribute to higher happiness among workers.

What Construction Trade Is Quickest to Learn?

Some construction trades have shorter training periods and can be learned relatively quickly. For example, construction laborers may require minimal formal education and learn their tasks on the job. Additionally, trades like painting and landscaping typically have shorter learning curves compared to specialized trades like plumbing and electrical work.

What Construction Trade Is the Least Stressful?

Stress levels may vary depending on individual preferences and workplace environments. However, certain construction trades, such as painting and landscaping, may be perceived as less stressful, as they often involve repetitive and low-risk tasks. Trades that require less exposure to hazardous materials or physically demanding activities could be considered less stressful as well.