Construction is a booming industry and it is not just for men. Construction jobs are diverse, with many opportunities to choose from. The list below showcases the top 10 construction jobs that are in high demand across North America.
1. Construction Manager
In this position, you will be responsible for the planning, coordination, budgeting, and execution of a construction project. A construction manager usually has a college degree in engineering, architecture, or construction management. It is a high-paying job that requires experience and leadership skills. From 2020 to 2030, there will be at least 12% more construction jobs requiring a construction manager.
Average salaries: $92,000 in Canada / $77,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
2. Electrician
Electricians are in high demand due to the increasing popularity of solar energy. They install and maintain electrical systems in both residential and commercial buildings. Electricians need to be licensed in most states, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete an apprenticeship program. It is a never-ending job market with great growth potential.
Average salary: $72,000 in Canada / $56,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
3. Welder
In construction projects, welders play a major role in joining different metals together. They use various welding processes to fuse two pieces of metal. The increasing popularity of pipelines and other construction projects has made welding jobs a hot commodity. Welding jobs are not limited to the construction industry, but also in the manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries.
Average salary: $59,000 in Canada / $48,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
4. Carpenter
Carpenters are responsible for framing, decking, cabinets, and more in residential and light commercial construction. In the world of commercial industries, carpenters can also work as a millwright, doing tasks such as installing and repairing industrial machinery. They also work in power plants, bridges, and other large-scale construction projects. Carpenters need to know how to use certain tools and read blueprints. There are different apprenticeship programs where carpenters can get the necessary training.
Average salary:$58,000 in Canada / $62,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
5. Plumber
Plumbing has been an in-demand job for a long time. Plumbers are responsible for installing and maintaining the water supply, drainage, and sewage systems in both residential and commercial buildings. They need to be skilled in using a variety of tools and have knowledge about different plumbing codes. In some states, plumbers must be licensed and complete an apprenticeship program.
Average salary: $72,000 in Canada / $59,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
6. Flagger
Most people do not believe flagging is a demanding job but it is! Flaggers are responsible for controlling traffic around construction sites. They need to be good at multitasking and have excellent communication skills. Flaggers need to be aware of their surroundings and traffic patterns. They go through safety training and must be certified in some states.
Average wage: $37,000 in Canada / $35,000 in the United States (Source: Indeed)
7. HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in both residential and commercial buildings. They should be knowledgeable about the different types of systems and how to fix them. To become an HVAC technician, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an apprenticeship program.
Average salary: $56,000 in Canada / $57,000 in the United States (Source: PayScale, Indeed)
8. Demolition
Demolition workers are in high demand because there is an increasing number of construction projects. Demolition workers are responsible for tearing down buildings and other structures. Demolition workers need to be physically fit and have experience using different tools. They also need to know how to read blueprints and safety procedures.
Average salary: $40,000 in Canada / $36,000 in the United States (Source: Indeed)
9. Equipment operator
An equipment operator is someone who operates construction equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, and cranes. They need to be skilled in using the equipment and know-how to read blueprints. Equipment operators can find jobs in many different industries such as construction, mining, and forestry. Since there is an increasing demand for construction projects, the job market for equipment operators is growing at a rapid speed.
Average salary: $63,000 in Canada / $56,000 in the United States (Source: Indeed)
10. General labour
And last but not least, general labourers are responsible for doing a variety of tasks in the construction industry. This includes cleaning, moving materials, and helping with other tasks as needed. General labourers do not need any formal training but they should be physically fit and able to work long hours. Just like most jobs in the construction industry, the job market for general labourers is always growing.
Average salary: $40,000 in Canada / $40,000 in the United States (Source: Indeed)
A few things to consider before selecting a construction job
- The amount of formal training required: Some construction jobs require more formal training than others. For example, construction manager and engineer jobs require a college degree. Other jobs, such as general labor and flagging, do not require any formal training.
- The physical demands: Construction jobs can be physically demanding. For example, demolition workers need to be able to lift heavy objects and equipment operators need to be able to operate construction equipment.
- The work environment: Construction jobs can be dangerous. For example, construction workers can be at risk of being injured by falling objects or having an accident with heavy machinery.
- The average salary: The average salary for construction jobs varies depending on the job title and level of training required. For example, plumbers earn a higher salary than general labourers.
- Job growth potential: The job market for construction workers is growing rapidly. This means that there are many opportunities for construction workers to find job growth potential. For example, if you do well as a construction manager, you can be promoted to be a project manager and your salary will increase as well.
Conclusion
If you are interested in pursuing a career in construction, be sure to research different jobs and apprenticeship programs to find one that suits you best. The construction industry is always growing so there are many opportunities for job growth. The salaries vary depending on the job, but most construction jobs offer good wages and benefits. The work can be physically demanding, but it is also very rewarding. So if you are looking for a challenging and exciting career, consider pursuing a job in construction!
