Contractors are skilled professionals who work in the construction industry, managing building projects for residential and commercial properties. There are dozens of different paths to pursue as a contractor—given the various specialties in the field, from acoustical installation to welding parts. If you’re interested in helping structures from the ground up, you may want to learn about the contractor’s career and what the steps are to become one.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of contractors and how to become one, plus take a look at other aspects of the job, such as what they typically earn, the job outlook for those in construction and the skills contractors need to succeed.
What is a contractor?
There are two types of contractors: general and specialty. When choosing your career path, you’ll want to consider which type of contractor you’d like to work as and work toward in your education, training and experience.
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General contractor: General contractors, who are often compared to construction managers, oversee building projects. They usually manage a team of specialists. They are familiar with all aspects of a construction project, from the budgeting of materials to overseeing site safety.
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Specialty contractor: A specialty contractor is a skilled tradesperson whose work involves special skill and know-how to complete a particular job, such as welding. There are dozens of different specialties specialty contractors can train for.
How to become a contractor
A contractor can work with a variety of projects, including new residential homes or commercial buildings. General contractors can choose to work in a physical construction role or a supervisory one, and opt to remodel or to renovate. It’s not unusual for specialty contractors to work independently.
1. Education
A high school education or equivalent is the basic education needed to become a contractor in California. Some contractors, however, go on to complete an associate degree or bachelor’s degree, especially if they’re looking into management or are undecided about their career path while in school.
A college degree usually takes four years to complete, and an aspiring contractor’s coursework may include—but not be limited to—structural science, building, economics, statistics and other financial aspects. A few schools offer different degrees in development and management. Some contractors might decide to pursue an advanced degree as well, to be a more competitive job candidate or to move into more senior level roles.
2. Training
While in school, you may want to start exploring hands-on training to apply what you’re learning in your studies, as well as to bolster the experience section of your resume. Consider taking on the role of an apprentice during this time, which will allow you to learn from a more seasoned professional and build your network for career guidance and asking industry questions.
3. Licensure
All contractors should become licensed contractors in their state. The first step in this process is to contact your state’s contractor licensing board. To find the licensing board in your state, check your state department online. There, you’ll find the licensure requirements for the type of contractor you want to become.
Most states will require you to pass an exam in order to obtain licensing. Make sure to familiarize yourself with current building codes and the state laws relating to construction and contracting and business management education.
4. Experience
If you choose not to pursue further schooling after a certain point in your academic career, having relevant work experience will help. Each state has a minimum requirement for expertise to obtain licensure. It’s also important to work with licensed contractors to help meet your state’s requirements.
5. Job search
After completing the necessary education and training in your pursuit of a career as a contractor, search and apply for jobs in the field. Consider the geographical area you want to live and work in, the salary you’d like to earn and whether you’d like to be a residential or commercial contractor.