Do you have what it takes to manage multiple teams and complex budgets to put up new homes or buildings?

So, you want to be a…general contractor

What will I be doing all day?

A general contractor is responsible for overseeing construction projects. This includes meeting with clients, determining the nature and scope of the project, planning each stage of the construction, applying for permits, coming up with an estimated budget, hiring and supervising subcontractors, and managing all of the pieces of the construction project to ensure every detail is being carried out according to plan.

What kind of schooling do I need?

While many contractors have a bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field, such as engineering or construction management, a college degree is not required; more important is hands-on training and experience in the construction and construction management field.

In the US, while there is no national licensing requirement, many individual states require contractors be licensed, with each setting its own licensing standards.  Even states with no licensure do often require contractors to register and provide proof of insurance.  And some individual cities have their own licensing mandates (for example, while New York State has no licensing requirement, New York City does).

Do I have the personality for it?

A good contractor is honest, organized, detail-oriented, and can foresee issues that may arise and problem-solve when they do. They have good business skills and also excellent communication skills, as they must deal with both clients and subcontractors. They work well under stress and are effective at overseeing and managing workers and juggling many pieces at once.

What will my work environment be like?

The work day of a general contractor is generally split between office work, client meetings, and going out to construction sites to oversee the work.

What can I expect to make?

While income varies widely, as with any independent business, the average salary in the US is $107,000. A project manager working for a large company in the New York area can make between $150,000 to $200,000.

TALES FROM THE TRENCHES

BARUCH TENENBAUM

Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel

Contractor and Owner, Quality Home Improvements

Years in Field: 27

My Typical Day at Work

A contractor is like the conductor of an orchestra; I coordinate all the pieces of the ensemble to renovate a home in perfect harmony. I order the materials, make sure the workers are properly equipped, and bring in subcontractors to move the project along quickly and efficiently. I schedule the trades and deliveries, making sure tasks are done in the proper sequence, and I call the engineer to come inspect the steel work before concrete is poured.

Before the first shovel hits the ground, I review the plans and cost out the project. I provide a detailed quote to the clients, and then there’s often a back-and-forth as they add or take away items to suit their budget. I might suggest upgrades that the designer and/or client didn’t think of, or suggest ways the client can save money by doing something a little differently.

There are so many details to consider; I’m the one who keeps track of them as I liaise with the client, designer, my employees, the engineer, and subtrades. I keep the clients informed of the changes and (usually) increased cost so they can budget accordingly. I have to communicate effectively and often serve as mediator to resolve conflicts. It could be the plumber and electrician both wanting to work in the kitchen on the same day, or the gas point and electric point competing for precious real estate in the cooktop cabinet. I listen carefully to my workers, who often have creative suggestions for how to do things or solve problems that inevitably crop up.

Of course, none of this happens unless it’s preceded by a cup of coffee.