What Is a Contractor and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A contractor is a person who works on a construction site and is responsible for overseeing important details of a project. This could mean managing vendors, communicating information to all the workers on the site, reviewing documents and architectural plans to make sure the building is going according to plan, and managing the tasks of other workers. Contractors have extensive knowledge of the construction project that they are working on, regardless of its size and scale.

Some contractors start out as an apprentice to an experienced tradesman or specialist to learn through real-world application. Others join a construction crew and gain industry experience through the job with hopes of moving up. Degrees in construction management are available, some at two-year schools for associate degrees, and others at four-year schools. Even with a degree, a potential contractor may still have to have on-site industry experience in order to become a general contractor.

A good general contractor acts as the manager on a construction project. This person has knowledge of the project and is employed to be the acting manager in charge of coordinating the needs of the construction. It is the general contractor’s job to review bids, proposals, or tender documents, and consider the cost of all aspects of the job. The general contractor works with the architect and/or engineer, along with the client, to ensure the building is up to code, completed on schedule, and that all parties are kept informed of the daily progress.

Becoming a licensed contractor opens options for job seekers. Many states require a licensed contractor at the building site before approving paperwork for construction. Getting your general contractor license often means taking an exam. Each state has different requirements, so be sure to check your local state’s regulations. When you apply, you may have to pay a fee each time you take the exam. The license you wish to earn may depend on the work you want to do. For example, if you want to focus on residential projects, you will not need the license specific to public utilities. When you get your license, you will have to pay a yearly fee to keep it active.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking a reliable, skilled, and experienced contractor to join our rapidly growing construction crew. In this role, you will deliver exceptional quality work alongside a team of highly-skilled professionals in both commercial and residential settings. To succeed in this position, you will be dedicated, hardworking, and a true team player, with a passion for your trade and a deep sense of pride in your work.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assess project and layout specifications, cost estimates, and timelines
• Write up proposals and estimates for potential clients
• See that all necessary permits are acquired prior to completing any work
• Responsible for project oversight, ensuring quality work is completed on time
• Source and vet subcontractors to provide necessary services
• Source all necessary materials ensuring quality and price point are as promised
• Provide all necessary equipment, including rentals, for projects to remain on schedule
• Recruit all necessary laborers and crew members for project
• Ensure that all inspections are scheduled and conducted in a timely fashion
• Work to maintain project budget, communicating status to the client regularly
• Maintain a safe and orderly work environment
• Observe all safety requirements and regulations at all times
• Provide consistent, regular project updates to crew and clients
• Minimize waste and maximize efficiency to reduce costs
• Demonstrate a vast general knowledge of construction best practices
• Maintain up to date knowledge of all code requirements
• Meet or exceed all code requirements
• Maintain excellent client relationships and procure new clients

Requirements and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required, college degree/trade certification preferred
• Current contractor license, valid and in good standing
• Minimum 5 years' hands-on experience in the construction field
• Proven track record of successful projects and satisfied clients
• Significant experience with commercial buildouts
• Significant experience with residential construction and renovation projects
• Bullet point about professional skill requirements
• Bullet points about other qualifications