What are the Different Types of Jobs in Construction?

Construction is one of the most lucrative and rewarding industries hiring new applicants today.  

There are many perks to working in construction, and many positions offer a competitive salary and do not require a college degree.  

However, many applicants are not familiar with the different types of jobs that construction has to offer.  

This post will go over a few different jobs in the construction industry and tell you what you will need to know if you are considering applying. 

Different Jobs in the Construction Industry 

Construction is one of the most lucrative career opportunities because there are many different career paths to choose from. Some paths require a college degree, some require an apprenticeship, and others require only a high school diploma or GED. 

Here are some of the different jobs that you need to know. 

General Laborer 

General laborers are one of the primary introductory jobs that you need to know.  

When you work general labor, you will learn the basics of construction and assist more senior workers in advanced duties. You can think of it as the world's best hands-on education course.  

Here are some of the duties a general laborer will be tasked with: 

• Installing general utility pipes and waterlines 
  
  
• Measuring, cutting, and using hand tools 
  
  
• Shoveling, digging, and climbing ladders 
  
  
• Working with other team members to complete tasks and ensure that equipment is well-maintained 

Not only does general labor allow you to work outside with your hands, but it is also a great way to develop skills that can help you start a career. 

Concrete Finisher 

Concrete finishers are primarily responsible for working with concrete to ensure that surfaces are level and ready to build and walk on.  

The work is rewarding and after a few months of experience, you will be able to call yourself a concrete expert. 

Here are some responsibilities of a concrete finisher: 

• Forming, pouring, and finishing concrete for sidewalks and curbs 
  
  
• Measuring, cutting, and using hand tools 
  
  
• Shoveling, digging, lifting, climbing, and working on uneven surfaces 
  
  
• Responsible for working with slip form curb and gutter machines, and forming and finishing corners 

Working as a concrete finisher helps you develop skills and gives you a familiarity with concrete and finishing.  

Heavy Equipment Operator 

Heavy equipment operators are responsible for working with heavy and hazardous machinery. They need to be highly experienced and licensed to work with specific machinery, so this position is not right for newcomers to construction. 

Here are some responsibilities of heavy equipment operators: 

• Operating heavy equipment related to large site development work. 
   
  
  • Underground utility crews: Excavator, wheel loader, track loader 
    
    
  • Mass excavation crews: scraper, dozer, articulated truck, excavator, compactor
    
    
  • Fine grade crews: dozer, motor grader, skid steer 
    
    
• Operating late model brand equipment (including John Deere, Caterpillar, Komatsu) 
  
  
• Regularly maintain machines (greasing, cleaning tracks, and more) 
  
  
• Working with other team members to make sure equipment is properly used and maintained 

This job requires many years of experience and is not an ideal fit for newcomers. Heavy equipment operators may need to undergo an apprenticeship and have licenses issued by their city or state to operate heavy machines.  

Pipe Layer 

Pipelayers are responsible for installing carefully measured pipes in their proper location to ensure that water, waste, and other materials are safely and efficiently delivered from point A to point B. 

Here are some responsibilities of a pipe layer: 

• Installing and assembling Underground Utility pipes for Storm, Sanitary, and Water Line, and more. 
  
  
• Set up lasers and shooting grade 
  
  
• Shoveling, digging, lifting, climbing ladders, working on uneven surfaces 
  
  
• Working with other team members to ensure that all equipment is properly maintained 

Pipelayers typically require several years of experience, so this position is not considered entry-level but would be a great direction to take your construction career after obtaining some underground utility experience. Underground utility experience is a must, so someone looking to become a pipelayer should look for experience in that area.  

SiteWORX Offers Lucrative Careers in the Construction Industry 

There are many different paths a worker can choose in the construction industry. Some career paths require a college education, others require licensing from the state and an apprenticeship, and some require no more than a high school diploma or GED. 

If you are looking for the best place to start your career in construction, look no further than SiteWORX.  

We have openings for general labor, concrete finishers, and more. Not only that, but we offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a team of safe and committed employees.  

If you want to start your career in construction, then it’s time to reach out to SiteWORX.