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Formwork Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

With nearly a century of expertise in providing safe, reliable, and cost-efficient concrete formwork and shoring solutions, we empower our team to make a significant impact on construction projects ...

Laborer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Distribute to the appropriate locations as directed • Cleaning construction sites to eliminate possible hazards • Erecting and disassembling scaffolding, • Shoring • Concrete Formwork • ...

Laborer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Distribute to the appropriate locations as directed • Cleaning construction sites to eliminate possible hazards • Erecting and disassembling scaffolding, • Shoring • Concrete Formwork • ...

Must have excellent understanding of man hour production rates for various formwork systems and types, placing and finishing task based on historical data. Strong knowledge of Excel, WinEst, Cost-OS ...

Concrete Estimator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$107K - $160K/yr

Prepare detailed and accurate quantity takeoffs for concrete materials, reinforcing steel, formwork, and embedded items. * Develop labor, equipment, and material cost estimates for a variety of ...

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Formwork information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$28

How much do formwork jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for formwork in California is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $24.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Formwork vs Carpenter?

AspectFormworkCarpenter
Primary RoleConstructs molds and frameworks for concreteBuilds, installs, and repairs wooden structures and fixtures
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of concrete forms, blueprint reading, safety certificationsCarpentry skills, woodworking certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, focusing on concrete structuresVaried settings including residential, commercial, and industrial projects
Industry UsageIntegral to concrete construction projectsBroadly used across construction and renovation projects

While both formworkers and carpenters work on construction sites, formworkers specialize in creating molds for concrete, whereas carpenters focus on building wooden structures. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right profession or job role within the construction industry.

What does a formworker do?

A formworker constructs and assembles formwork, which are temporary or permanent molds used to hold concrete in place during construction. They measure, cut, and install materials like wood, metal, or plastic, ensuring the formwork is secure and level before concrete pouring. This job requires knowledge of safety procedures, tools, and reading blueprints or technical drawings.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the construction industry, highly experienced project managers, executive-level construction company owners, and specialized consultants can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities, especially in large-scale or commercial projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Formwork Carpenter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Formwork Carpenter, you need a solid understanding of construction principles, blueprint reading, and hands-on carpentry skills, typically gained through an apprenticeship or vocational training. Proficiency in using power tools, concrete forming systems, and safety equipment is essential, along with relevant certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in this physically demanding and precise role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring structural integrity, maintaining safety, and meeting project deadlines in construction environments.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of formwork and construction, experienced supervisors or specialized tradespeople can earn around $10,000 per month through overtime, high-demand projects, or union wages. These roles typically require technical skills, on-the-job training, and certifications rather than a college degree.

What are the typical challenges faced by formwork professionals on construction sites?

Formwork professionals often encounter challenges such as working in changing weather conditions, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations. The role requires close coordination with other trades, such as concrete workers and site supervisors, to ensure that formwork is set up accurately and on schedule. Attention to detail is critical, as errors in formwork can impact the quality and safety of the finished structure. Continuous learning about new materials and techniques is also important for career advancement in this field.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the construction industry, specialized roles such as experienced formwork carpenters or supervisors can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working on large-scale projects. High-paying construction jobs often require advanced skills, safety training, and the ability to work in demanding environments. Such earnings are typically associated with unionized or highly skilled positions in major projects.

What is formwork in construction?

Formwork refers to the temporary or permanent molds used to hold wet concrete in place until it hardens and gains enough strength to support itself. It is an essential part of the construction process for creating concrete structures such as walls, columns, and slabs. Formwork can be made from materials like wood, metal, or plastic, and its design and quality greatly impact the final shape and surface finish of the concrete. Proper formwork ensures safety, efficiency, and the desired structural integrity of the finished project.
What are popular job titles related to Formwork jobs in California? For Formwork jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Formwork jobs? Cities in California with the most Formwork job openings:
Infographic showing various Formwork job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,249 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Senior Concrete Estimator

Charles Pankow Builders Ltd

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Concrete Estimator is responsible for preparing and managing concrete-specific estimates for medium to large commercial construction projects. This role emphasizes detailed takeoffs, cost analysis, and subcontractor/supplier coordination specific to concrete scopes—including formwork, reinforcement, placement, and finishing. The Estimator also supports operations teams in procurement strategy, constructability assessments, and concrete logistics planning, especially in fast-paced, self-perform environments.

JOB SCOPE & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Primary Accountabilities

  • Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare estimates for:
    • Concrete foundations and slabs
    • Vertical elements (walls, cores, columns)
    • Elevated decks and flatwork
    • Site concrete and specialty finishes
  • Develop and maintain budgets for:
    • Precast and cast-in-place components
    • Shoring/formwork systems
    • Concrete pumping and placement logistics
  • Prepare cost breakdowns at Conceptual, Schematic, and GMP stages.
  • Vendor/Subcontractor Procurement:
    • Solicit and evaluate quotes from concrete material suppliers and reinforcing subcontractors.
    • Provide feedback on scope gaps, exclusions, and buyout strategy.
  • Internal Support:
    • Support Project Management in aligning estimate assumptions with field execution.
    • Coordinate with Field Superintendents on production rates and formwork strategies.
  • Tools & Templates:
    • Develop and manage standard estimating templates for concrete scopes.
    • Convert final estimates into accounting system formats (e.g., CMiC or ERP tools).

Secondary Accountabilities

  • Assist with concrete scheduling and phasing plans.
  • Provide input on crane planning, pour sequencing, and formwork reuse.
  • Support constructability and site access reviews during early project planning.
  • Identify opportunities for value engineering specific to concrete systems (e.g., slab design alternatives, mix optimization, etc.).

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Training

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred.
  • Field experience in concrete placement or estimating trade training is strongly preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Deep understanding of:
    1. Self-perform concrete practices
    2. Material pricing trends and supply chain logistics
    3. Labor productivity for concrete scopes
    4. Scheduling tools and takeoff software (e.g., OST, Bluebeam, PlanSwift)
  • Strong communication and organization skills.

Work Experience

  • 10+ years of estimating or project engineering experience in concrete construction (field or office).