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Entry Level Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, seeking full-time Project Engineer-Entry Level in ... Assists in coordination of contractors, vendors, and engineering teams * Participates in site walks ...

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Entry Level Contractor information

See Virginia salary details

$24.8K

$47.4K

$67.9K

How much do entry level contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level contractor in Virginia is $47,421.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level contractor?

Entry level contractors are individuals who are just starting their careers in a particular trade or industry and work on a contract basis, rather than as full-time employees. They typically perform tasks under supervision, gaining hands-on experience while learning industry standards and safety protocols. Entry level contractors may work in fields such as construction, IT, or engineering, and their responsibilities usually focus on supporting more experienced professionals, assisting with projects, and developing specialized skills. These positions often serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles within the industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level contractor expect to handle in their first year?

As an entry level contractor, you can expect to work on a variety of foundational tasks such as assisting with project documentation, performing site visits, helping to ensure compliance with safety regulations, and supporting more experienced team members with daily operations. You may also be responsible for communicating with suppliers, tracking project progress, and learning industry-specific software. These tasks are designed to provide hands-on experience, familiarize you with project workflows, and help build relationships with colleagues and clients, all of which are essential for growth in the contracting field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Contractor, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety certifications like OSHA 10, and the ability to read blueprints are typically required. Strong work ethic, communication skills, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are important because they ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality work on construction sites while supporting team collaboration.

What is the difference between Entry Level Contractor vs Apprentice Carpenter?

AspectEntry Level ContractorApprentice Carpenter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic safety trainingTypically in training, may have basic safety courses
Work EnvironmentSupervised construction sites, project-basedOn-site learning under supervision, hands-on training
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, general contractingCarpentry apprenticeships, union or non-union programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Contractors and Apprentice Carpenters both start their careers in construction, but Entry Level Contractors often have more responsibilities and may handle project coordination, while Apprentice Carpenters focus on learning carpentry skills under supervision. Both roles require safety training and are common entry points into the construction industry.

How to get into entry level contractor work with no experience?

Entry level contractor roles often require basic skills in construction, carpentry, or related trades. Gaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and starting with apprenticeships or entry-level positions can help build experience and improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Contractor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Contractor jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Contractor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Contractor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,421 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Project Engineer - Entry Level

IES Electrical

Chester, VA โ€ข On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, seeking full-time Project Engineer-Entry Level in Chester, Virginia.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or work authorization support. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without current or future need for employer sponsorship.
Job Summary
Supports the planning, coordination, and execution of data center construction and infrastructure projects. Works under the guidance of senior project engineers and project managers and provides hands-on exposure to data center systems, including electrical, mechanical, and IT infrastructures.
  • Assists project managers with day-to-day project coordination
  • Supports tracking of schedules, budgets, and material deliveries
  • Reviews drawings, submittals, and technical documentation
  • Assists in coordination of contractors, vendors, and engineering teams
  • Participates in site walks, inspections, and progress meetings
  • Assists with quality control and safety compliance efforts
  • Supports testing, commissioning, and system handover activities
  • Maintains organized project files and reports
  • Identifies issues and advises senior team members
  • Ensures compliance with company and customer safety policies and procedures
  • Performs work on and off Project Sites.

Qualifications
  • Basic understanding of construction or engineering principles.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings with guidance.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Proficient knowledge of Outlook and MS Office (EXCEL, WORD).
  • Willingness to learn and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Electrical Field experience a plus.
  • Successfully pass pre-employment (post offer) background check, and MVR check when responsibilities require operating motor vehicles.

Company Overview
IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, a subsidiary of IES Holdings, Inc. (IES), an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. IES is traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol IESC. IES Commercial, Inc. operates diverse business units across the United States, each focusing on distinct market segments and geographies, with some business units operating nationally. Safety is Priority One - and our record shows it.
Benefits: 401(k) Retirement Plan with company discretionary match, flexible medical-dental-vision insurance, short-term/long-term disability insurance, basic life/AD&D insurance, paid holidays, and highly competitive pay in addition to paid-time-off.
IES is a national provider of industrial products and infrastructure services to a variety of end markets, including electrical, mechanical and communications contracting solutions for the commercial, industrial, residential and renewable energy markets. IES is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol IESC. As of the end of IES's 2025 fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, IES produced over $3.3 billion in revenue and employed over 10,200 employees at over 174 domestic locations across the United States.
Additional Data
PLEASE NO AGENCY CALLS.
NOTE TO ALL AGENCIES: Any unsolicited agency resumes or agency represented candidates that are presented to any IES employee without first having a signed contract between that agency and the IES Talent Acquisition organization will become the property of IES and no fees will be paid.
EEO & Affirmative Action
The IES policy on equal employment opportunity prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, individuals with disabilities, protected veterans, or any other protected status or characteristic. This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment, and also states that retaliation against any employee who files a complaint regarding possible violations of this policy will not be tolerated. IES is also committed to taking affirmative steps to promote the employment of minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. IES develops affirmative action programs to support its commitment to equal employment opportunity, consistent with company policy and the company's obligations as a contractor to the United States government.
View Your Equal Employment Opportunity rights under the law. "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal; Conozca sus Derechos: La Discriminaciรณn en el Lugar de Trabajo es Ilegal
Disability Accommodation
IES is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. IES provides reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Applicants who need accommodation in the job application process should contact the IES corporate office at (713) 860-1500 or any IES office to request assistance.
IES Participates in E-Verify/IES participa en el programa E-Verify
E-Verify Information/ Informaciรณn sobre E-Verify
English/Espaรฑol
Right to Work/Ley de Derecho al Trabajo
English/Espaรฑol
Workplace Type
Onsite