Are you thinking of getting into construction? Well, the good news is, the industry has recovered from the devastating effects of the economic bust and is on a gradual but steady upward trend – meaning more jobs, more opportunities in the industry -this is music to your ears right?
In fact, data from the Labor Department remains confident, forecasting the addition of over 520, 000 new employment opportunities by the year 2024 – this is a 13.6 percent increase from the previous data.
There’s a long term sustainability of this trend, but you may be wondering which job offers the best opportunity in the industry right now.
To help you make the best choice, we’ve examined the hottest roles in the industry – you’re going to find information about the average salary for each job, the expected available jobs, what you need to snag each role, any special training required, and much more.
Construction equipment operator
You’ve seen those pieces of heavy machinery in building sites right? It’s this guy’s job to operate them. So they’re kind of in high demand. They drive bulldozers; operate cranes, cherry pickers and other heavy equipment used in construction.
How to become a construction equipment operator
You can pretty much take the vocational training route or on the job training path to get qualified for these jobs.
Expected Salary
Annual average earnings of $43, 810
Projected job growth
10 percent
Elevator installers and repairers
An elevator technician installs, repairs, and maintains lifts, escalators, and moving walkways. They’re needed specifically in commercial building constructions – hence their demand depends on the rate of nonresidential construction works going on in an area.
If you don’t mind working from cramped spaces inside crawl gaps, machine rooms and doesn’t mind the heights – then this job might just be what you need.
How to become an elevator installer or repairman
You need a high school education or its equivalent in addition to an apprenticeship training in order to be eligible for this job. And currently, thirty-five states require a license before you can practice.
Expected Salary
The average annual salary is $80, 870.
Projected growth
13 percent.
Boilermaker jobs
A boiler maker assembles, install and repair boilers and other large containers that hold fluids and gases. They can be found working in large buildings, ships, and factories construction sites.
As a boiler maker, you’re going to be involved with the assembling and testing of boiler systems. You’re going to be working primarily with steel, iron, copper or stainless steel.
How to become a Boilermaker
In addition to your high school diploma, you have to undergo an apprenticeship program, and you’re more likely to be accepted if you know how to wield and is certified.
Expected Salary
The annual average wage is $60,120
Projected job growth
9 percent.
Electricians
These guys are in high demand. You would find them in every construction project – whether it’s a residential, commercial or industrial building project – they’re needed to install, maintain and repair electrical systems.
How to become an electrician
You’re required to complete either a formal apprenticeship, vocational training or get trained on the job.
Expected Salary
Annual average pay $51,880
Projected job growth
13 percent
Plumber and pipe fitter
You already know what the job entails right? This job involves installing pipes and fittings in homes, commercial buildings and factories.
How to become a plumber
You can either choose to learn on the job through an apprenticeship program or attend a technical school. However, most states would require you get licensed before practicing.
Expected Salary
Annual average wage of $50,620
Projected job growth
12 percent
In summary, this is an exciting time to get into construction – with lots of opportunities, increasing earning potentials and lots more. So go out there and get yourself some job.
