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How much do entry level general contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level general contractor in the United States is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level General Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level General Contractor, you need a basic understanding of construction processes, project management fundamentals, and safety regulations, often gained through a high school diploma, relevant coursework, or hands-on experience. Familiarity with construction management software, cost estimation tools, and OSHA safety certifications is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help set candidates apart in coordinating teams and managing tasks. These competencies ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget, laying the groundwork for professional growth in the construction industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level general contractors during their first projects?

Entry level general contractors often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple subcontractors, managing tight project schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Adjusting to the fast-paced construction environment while learning to effectively communicate with team members and clients can also be demanding. However, these experiences provide valuable hands-on learning and help build the skills necessary for career advancement within the construction industry.

What does an entry level general contractor do?

An entry level general contractor assists in overseeing construction projects from start to finish, working under the supervision of more experienced contractors or project managers. Their responsibilities typically include coordinating with subcontractors, assisting with project scheduling, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and helping manage materials and budgets. They often spend time both in the office and on-site, gaining hands-on experience in construction management. This role provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for advancement in the construction industry.

How to get into contracting work with no experience?

Entry level general contractors often start by gaining experience in related trades such as carpentry or construction labor, either through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. Building knowledge of construction processes, safety protocols, and obtaining relevant certifications like OSHA can improve job prospects; networking and demonstrating reliability are also important for entry into contracting work.

What is the difference between Entry Level General Contractor vs Construction Supervisor?

AspectEntry Level General ContractorConstruction Supervisor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, some experience, possibly a general contractor licenseHigh school diploma, construction management experience, possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees entire projects, manages subcontractors, handles permitsSupervises daily on-site activities, manages workers and safety
Industry UsageUsed by small to medium firms, independent contractorsCommon in large construction projects, employed by companies

While both roles involve overseeing construction activities, an Entry Level General Contractor typically manages entire projects and handles permits, often working independently or in small firms. A Construction Supervisor focuses on daily on-site supervision, ensuring safety and workflow. The roles overlap in work environment and certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Entry Level General Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level General Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level General Contractor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of General Contractor jobs? The most popular types of General Contractor jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level General Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level General Contractor jobs are:
Entry Level General Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level General Contractor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,182 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Entry-Level Engineer | Charlottesville 2026

Entry-Level Engineer | Charlottesville 2026

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Please note:
  • Applying for positions in multiple locations will result in a longer vetting process.
  • The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including the disabled and veterans.

Whiting-Turner is a national ENR Top 25 General Contractor looking for entry-level engineers to help manage all aspects of construction projects. Reporting to a project manager and/or a superintendent, the entry-level engineer's major duties include:
  • Coordinating work with project owner representatives, architects, engineers, inspectors, and site subcontractors and/or directing the work of all trades assigned to a construction work site.
  • Managing estimating and bidding processes and tracking costs to manage project budget.
  • Resolving and clarifying design issues.
  • Identifying and resolving field issues and change orders.
  • Writing contracts and purchase orders using company boilerplate language to document all ordered work, schedules, projected costs, change orders and technical specifications.
  • Participating in meetings to coordinate work and manage labor concerns.
  • Ensuring work is completed in accordance with quality standards and contract specifications.
  • Implementing project schedules including each task associated with project completion.
  • Documenting the technical, financial and personnel aspects of each project.
  • Reviewing project drawings, specifications, submittals and change orders.
  • Reviewing each trade's work progress with respect to each project phase.
  • Providing field support to construction superintendents to help ensure contract compliance, quality control and maintenance of the site.
  • Tracking project phase completion against milestones.
  • Setting expectations for managing a safe work site.
  • Documenting each phase of the project.

Whiting-Turner will train qualified candidates to develop:
  • General knowledge of safety regulations, ANSI standards, local and state building codes, environmental codes, availability of industry-specific codes and guidelines.
  • General knowledge of general construction processes, practices and work sites.
  • Experience with construction projects, mechanical/electrical systems, building materials, building mechanics or working with craft workers.
  • Ability to read and understand technical specifications, blueprints, technical manuals, product/material installation instructions and engineering/architectural drawings.
  • Proficiency in scheduling including related scheduling software.

Basic qualifications for Entry-Level Engineer candidates include:
  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Engineering Technology or Construction Management, Construction Technology.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Required Skills
Basic qualifications for Project Engineer candidates include:
  1. Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Engineering Technology or Construction Management, Construction Technology.
  2. Knowledge of engineering principles.
  3. Knowledge of basic business principles sufficient to project and monitor expenses.
  4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word and Excel.
  5. Ability to read and understand technical specifications, technical manuals, product/material installation instructions and engineering/architectural drawings.
  6. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  7. Experience with construction projects, mechanical/electrical systems, building materials, building mechanics or working with craft workers.

Whiting-Turner will train qualified candidates to develop:
  1. General knowledge of safety regulations, ANSI standards, local and state building codes, environmental codes, availability of industry-specific codes and guidelines.
  2. General knowledge of construction processes, practices and work sites.
  3. Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Primavera (or other scheduling software.)

Apply