Construction jobs typically range from on-field laborers to project engineers and managers. With so many people working on board, workplace planning software becomes a useful tool to get real-time updates, seamless integrations, and next-gen forecasting.
But have you ever wondered how much different people in this workforce are paid? Which of them is paid more than the others? Below, we look at the highest-paying construction jobs in the construction industry.
Check out also an article from Bridgit about construction craft workers.
Table of Contents
7 highest-paid construction jobs
If you’re planning to enter the construction sector, consider your skills, expertise, and level of exposure before you decide to pursue a job in this domain. Here are some jobs that pay handsomely in this industry.
1. Construction superintendent
According to Indeed, a construction superintendent earns around $90,000 per year. That salary is comparable to many professional roles in the tech and education sectors.
Construction superintendents usually manage all aspects of the job, including safety regulations and communication with suppliers. They ensure the general contractor and subcontractors work together effectively, meet deadlines, and stay within budget.
Requirements
A college degree in architecture, engineering, construction science, or construction management could help you land a job as a construction superintendent. But some positions only require a high school diploma or associate’s degree.Â
You should also have the following skills:Â
- Communication skillsÂ
- Commercial construction experienceÂ
- Basic knowledge of OSHA and EPA regulations
- Problem-solving skills
- Project management experience
2. Building engineer
On average, building engineers earn around $75,000 a year, but the salary can be as high as $88,000. The salary differs based on education, experience, additional skills, and certifications.
A building engineer’s primary role is to ensure the building’s automation systems work efficiently. They inspect and monitor wiring, HVAC systems, alarm systems, control panels, and electrical systems.
Requirements
Building engineers should have at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and relevant experience. Certifications, such as Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) and Associate Constructor (AC), are also beneficial.
Some skills they require include:
- Strong communication
- Knowledge of the building industry and operations
- Ability to troubleshoot and analyze technical problems
- Understanding of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
3. Construction estimator
A construction estimator earns $80,000 per year in the US. Their job is to estimate the cost of construction projects and make sure that they stay within budget. They work with architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors to accomplish this.
They also review construction plans, materials, and labor costs to come up with a realistic estimate of the project. Depending on the employer, the annual salary for a construction estimator may be even higher.
For example, Coast Building Products pays construction estimators $161,000 per year. The cities with the highest salaries for construction estimators include Corona, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis.
Requirements
You should have a degree in construction, finance, operations management, or engineering. If you don’t have a degree, long-term experience in the field may suffice in some cases.
Moreover, The American Society of Professional Estimators also offers certification programs that may qualify you for higher-paying jobs. It’s also beneficial to have strong math and communication skills. Plus, you should be knowledgeable about construction standards, building codes, and material pricing.
4. Construction supervisor
The average salary of a construction supervisor is $72,000, although it varies based on the employer. Construction supervisors oversee construction projects and ensure they meet safety, budget, and timeline requirements.
They also manage workers, inspect the equipment, and make sure that the construction site is safe. They may also need to coordinate with subcontractors, architects, and engineers, so they must have good team-working and communication skills.
Requirements
A degree in construction or civil engineering is typically required for a successful career as a construction supervisor. Experience in the construction industry and knowledge of building codes and regulations are also important.
5. Heavy equipment operator
On average, a heavy equipment operator makes $69,000 a year. Depending on their skills and expertise, the salary may be as high as $78,000.
Heavy equipment operators operate machines, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, used in construction and demolition projects. They use these machines to move heavy materials and equipment, dig trenches and excavate sites, grade and level earth.
Requirements
Heavy equipment operators are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent and some certification in operating the equipment they will be using. In addition, on-the-job training is a must.
6. Electrician
Electricians earn $59,000 per year on average. But the salary can be higher in case of overtime or special assignments.
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. On a construction site, they read blueprints and follow instructions from supervisors to install new or upgraded electrical systems.
Requirements
You don’t necessarily need a degree to be an electrician, but most states require electricians to hold a professional license. To qualify for this license, they must pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of electrical codes, regulations, and safety.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) in the US also requires professionals who use certain electrical products to be certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). You can find the list of OSHA-recognized NRTLs here.
7. Construction project manager
Construction project managers earn an average of $88,000 annually, while the highest-paid individuals get around $134,000 annually. Some of the highest-paying companies that hire construction project managers are Centurion Selection, Peterson Consulting, and McKissack & McKissack.
A construction project manager manages a project’s time, cost, and quality. They coordinate the construction process with vendors, architects, engineers, and laborers.
Requirements
You must possess a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field. If you don’t have a degree but have experience in the construction industry, you may still be eligible for a position as a construction project manager.
You should also have these skills:
- Civil engineering
- Budgeting
- Auto estimating
- Analytical skills
- Construction management
- Contract management
Conclusion
As evident, many construction jobs pay good money. Opposed to office-based jobs where a degree is a must, construction employers may accept candidates with no degree but plenty of experience in the field.
If you don’t have the required experience, start small. Begin your career as a laborer or apprentice and work your way up.
