Construction Careers: Options, Job Titles, and Descriptions

The construction sector includes the construction of commercial, industrial, and residential buildings and engineering projects like roads, bridges, and utility systems. Construction includes new construction and remodelling, additions, maintenance, and repairs.

Construction is one of the industries with the highest projections for new employment opportunities. Positions vary, ranging from unskilled labourer and helper jobs to roles that require extensive training, education, and skills.

Job Titles with the Highest Employment

Overall, the construction industry employed 7,505,000 workers in July 2019 according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. For 2018, the job titles with the highest number of employees included:

Carpenters – 611,070
Construction Labourers – 849,570
Construction Managers – 227,460
Electricians – 503,660
Operating Engineers and Other Equipment Operators – 245,320

Jobs with the Highest Projected Growth

Construction is projected to add 864,700 new jobs by 2026. Employment is estimated to grow 12% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations, increasing from 6.71 million jobs to 7.58 million jobs.

Which jobs need the most employees? All jobs in the construction sector are projected to have an increase in employment.

Projected growth ranges from 1%, which is far below the average for all jobs (8.4%), for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, to 105% for Solar Photovoltaic Installers. Almost all of the major job categories within construction are projected to grow at above-average rates.

The most in-demand jobs, with higher-than-average projections for job creation, in the sector include:

Boilermakers

People in this role assemble, install, and repair boilers and other containers holding liquid or gas. Typically, boilermakers participate in apprenticeships for training, and the work itself has the potential for danger. (It's one of the highest-paying jobs available in the construction industry.)

Projected Growth: 9%

Construction Equipment Operators

In this job, people drive or operate equipment and machinery to build and repair roads, buildings, and more. Apprenticeships and training programs are available, but it's also very common to learn on the job.

Projected Growth: 12%

Construction and Building Inspectors

Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.

Projected Growth: 10%

Construction Laborers and Helpers

Laborers and helpers do the physical work — including digging, building, unloading, clearing, and assisting craftspeople — required on job sites. They may also operate machinery. Training for the position comes on the job.

Projected Growth: 12%

Electricians

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in both residential and commercial spaces. Training is required for this role, typically through schools or apprenticeships. Depending on the state, a license may be required as well. See a sample resume and skills list for an electrician here.

Projected Growth: 9%

Elevator Installers and Repairmen

People in this role put in elevators, escalators, and other moving walkways and stairs, and also maintain and repair them. More than half of all states require these workers to be licensed, and training for the job is typically achieved through an apprenticeship.

Projected Growth: 12%

Flooring Installers

Flooring installers and tile and marble setters lay and finish carpet, wood, vinyl, and tile.

Projected Growth: 10%

Glaziers

Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, and other fixtures in storefronts and buildings.

Projected Growth: 11%

Hazardous Material Removers

Hazardous material removal workers identify and dispose of asbestos, lead, radioactive waste, and other hazardous materials. They also neutralize and clean up materials that are flammable, corrosive, or toxic.

Projected Growth: 17%

Ironworkers

Ironworkers can learn the correct way to install iron and steel for buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures on the job or through an apprenticeship .

Projected Growth: 13%

Masonry Workers

Using bricks, stone, concrete, and other materials, masons create or build walls, fireplaces, fences, and more. Programs to learn masonry are available at technical colleges, or workers can learn on the job or through an apprenticeship.

Projected Growth: 12%

Plumbers, Pipe Fitters, and Steamfitters

People in this role install pipes in both residential and commercial spaces. A license is usually required, and training is through apprenticeships or school programs. Review this sample resume for a plumber, along with a list of skills for plumbers.

Projected Growth: 16%

Roofers

Training to install and repair roofs is typically achieved on the job, although apprenticeship programs are available.

Projected Growth: 11%

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers

Also known as PV installers, people with this job title install solar roof panels on residential and commercial buildings. Courses are available for training, as well as apprenticeships and on-the-job training.