Operating Engineers and Equipment Operators are the professionals that drive and operate heavy construction machinery. These professionals work on every construction project. The heavy equipment is utilized to excavate, move, and grade earth to prepare the land for projects. Operating engineers and equipment operators may maintain and repair the machinery. Engineers and operators may have to work at various hours including late night depending on the scheduling to mitigate public disruption. They must be in good physical condition including good vision, multi-limbed coordination, precision, and depth perception, carrying out the utmost safety precautions due to high-risk activities that could result in serious injuries.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Operating Engineers
Entry Level – Experienced
$48,000 – $149,000
Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
Common Skills of Operating Engineers
Heavy equipment operation:
Excavators; Motor graders; Derricks; Compressors; Scrapers; Cranes; Backhoes; Bulldozers; Front-end loaders; Skid steers, etc.
Equipment maintenance; Operations monitoring; Mechanical skills
Active listening; Troubleshooting
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Construction Laborers are critical to all construction projects. The profession maintains a clean, safe, and productive work environment for all work activities on a site. Laborers’ responsibilities typically involve physically demanding tasks contributing to the project’s success, such as setting up equipment or temporary structures, cleaning, loading, and unloading materials fundamental to maintaining operational efficiency. Due to their interaction and assistance with various trades on the job site, construction laborers learn a great deal of transferable skills and knowledge of the construction industry at large.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Laborer → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Construction Laborers
Entry Level – Experienced
$37,000 – $99,000
Education
Many employers prefer a high school diploma or equivalent although it is not required.
There are low barriers to entry– no minimum education, credential, or experience requirement.
Construction laborers can expect to learn a variety of new skills during on-the-job training.
Common Skills for Construction Laborers
Ability to lift 41 – 100 pounds
Operate forklifts
Operate hand tools & power tools
Mechanical skills
Active listening; Speaking; Coordination; Operations monitoring
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Carpenters are skilled professionals who specialize in constructing frameworks and structures for various types of infrastructure They work closely with other construction workers on the project sites to build, install, and repair structures. As a constant asset on the worksite, carpenters are usually used through the entire process of construction and at times advise other laborers on the site. The occupation requires precision in technical skills, physical fitness, and mental wellness to get the job done.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Laborer → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Carpenters
Entry Level – Experienced
$40,000 – $115,000
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common Skills for Carpenters
Ability to lift 41-100 pounds
Reading blueprints
Operate hand tools & power tools
Measure, cut, and shape materials
Mathematics; Design
Critical thinking; Active listening; Coordination; Active Learning
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Plumbing are essential for all types of construction. Plumbers are skilled tradespeople who install, maintain, and repair water, gas, and other piping systems. The trade performs work on public, commercial, and residential buildings.
Pipefitters and steamfitters are commonly referred to as “fitters”; they also install, maintain, and repair pipes. Fitters primarily work on pipes located in manufacturing, commercial, and industrial settings. A career as a fitter includes installing and repairing pipes in power plants and large heating and cooling systems.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman → Supervisor
Annual Salary Range for Plumbers, Pipefitters, & Steamfitters
Entry Level – Experienced
$46,000 – $133,000
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Plumbers and fitters can benefit from a post-secondary certification that focuses on the technical skills of the career.
Common Skills of Plumbers and Fitters
Judgment; Decision making; Troubleshooting; Critical thinking
Repairing
Operations monitoring
Mathematics; Mechanical; Design
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Ironworkers are integral in constructing buildings, bridges, roads, and other heavy infrastructure by installing structural and reinforcing iron and steel. Their work enhances the safety and durability of structures. Ironworkers are good at following directions to utilize the necessary blueprints, sketches, and other instructions. Physical fitness is required to unload and stack prefabricated iron and steel for subsequent lifting to locations with slings.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship or Helper → Apprenticeship → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Iron Workers
Entry Level – Experienced
$56,000 – $122,000
Education
Many employers prefer a high school diploma or equivalent although it is not required.
Common Skill for Ironworkers
Reading comprehension; Critical thinking; Active listening
Mathematics; Mechanics
Coordination; Physical stamina; Physical strength
Balance; Comfortability with heights
Operations monitoring
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Sheet Metal workers fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment such as control boxes, drainpipes, and ducts. To do this they must set up and operate machinery that cuts, bends, and straightens sheet metal, along with other metal shaping work that may involve hammers, soldering, and/or welding. The craft also entails inspecting, assembling, and smoothing seams and joints.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Sheet Metal Workers
Entry Level – Experienced
$39,000 – $125,000
Education
Many employers prefer a high school diploma or equivalent although it is not required.
Basic education is useful for mechanical, mathematics, and design aspects of the trade.
Common Skills of Sheet Metal Workers
Critical thinking; Active listening
Reading comprehension
Mathematics; Mechanical; Design
Judgment and decision-making
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
HVAC Mechanics and Installers install, maintain, repair, and inspect heating ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They ensure that HVAC systems operate efficiently and meet safety standards. Work responsibilities include meeting local HVAC codes, removing old systems, installing new systems, and performing routine maintenance that enhances the systems’ performance. Mechanical HVAC technicians utilize a great deal of technical skill to interpret data on pressure and temperature, understand wiring diagrams, and work with duct and pipe systems.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman
Annual Salary Range for HVAC Technicians
Entry Level – Experienced
$64,000- $98,000
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Aspiring HVAC technicians can benefit from a post-secondary certification that focuses on the technical skills of the career.
Common Skills of HVAC Technicians
Reading comprehension; Active listening
Operations monitoring; Quality control analysis
Mathematics; Mechanical; Design
Critical thinking; Troubleshooting
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Drywall Finishers are tradespeople that prepare drywall surfaces for paint and wallpaper. To do this, they apply and finish joint compound to seams, screws, and nail indentations to create a smooth surface. Drywall finishers play a role in quality control as they ensure all seams are sealed and free of defects.
Professional painters use various leading technologies and techniques to paint their scope of work. The craft includes removing old paint, choosing materials, selecting, and mixing colors, priming surfaces, applying a variety of finishes, and cleaning up their job site. Professional painters may use high-tech spray systems to apply coatings, vinyl wall coverings, and faux finishes.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman
Annual Salary Range for Painters and Drywall Finishers
Entry Level – Experienced
$37,000 – $94,000
Education
No formal education credentials and no work experience are required.
These trades commonly receive multiple months of on-the-job training.
Common Skills of Painters and Drywall Finishers
Active listening; Critical thinking
Quality control and assurance
Oral comprehension; Oral expression
Multi-limb coordination
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Job Description
Construction Managers are essential in project supervision, coordination, budgeting, and planning. These managers are responsible for selecting subcontractors, corresponding with clients, engineers, and architects, creating time schedules and cost structures, keeping the project on time and budget, and ensuring the project is legally compliant with building and safety codes. Depending on the size and scope construction managers may hire other project managers to oversee specific areas of work; in this case, the top level is responsible for coordinating managers to supervise the entire project.
Project managers coordinate procurement, schedules, timelines, and staffing for services and products on a per-project basis. They also analyze budgets, guide work activities, and serve as a point of contact for clients and customers.
Both construction and project management This profession requires exceptional communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills to see a project through effectively and efficiently.
Annual Salary Range for Construction & Project Managers
Entry Level – Experienced
$64,000 – $239,000
Education
Higher education is common for construction and project managers
Useful Studies– Construction Management; Business; Engineering
In some cases, individuals can become construction and project managers with appropriate experience and leadership in construction regardless of formal education or lack thereof.
Common Skills/ Knowledge of Construction & Project Managers
Project management; Cost estimation; Design
Construction methods and materials; Commercial construction
Literacy in construction software (CAD &BIM)
Microsoft Office
In-demand Certifications
Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Licensed Professional Engineer
OSHA 30 / OSHA 10
Driver’s license
Job Description
Civil Project Engineers work on civil construction projects such as heavy highways, bridges, boardwalks, earthwork, drainage, and airport construction. Importantly, they coordinate closely with project management teams to develop engineering plans and procedures. Project engineers also prepare and monitor project submittals, as well as analyze monthly budgets and project costs. This enables them to offer suggestions that enhance financial and practical efficiency. Commonly the profession helps with purchase orders, subcontracts, and the assurance that materials are approved, delivered, and tracked appropriately to ensure smooth operations. Civil project engineers must have outstanding written and verbal communication skills to adequately articulate construction plans to diverse audiences such as project managers, non-technical team members, stakeholders, and the public.
Annual Salary Range for Civil & Electrical Engineers
Entry Level – Experienced
$55,000 – $120,000
Education
Bachelor’s Degree
Knowledge: construction systems, engineering mechanics, physics, and math.
Common Skills for Project Engineers
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software; Autodesk
Microsoft Office
Engineering; Math; Science
Problem-solving; detail-oriented
Strong written and verbal communication; Technical writing
Outstanding organization and time management
In-demand Certifications
Licensed Professional Engineer
driver’s license
OSHA 30
Job Description
Cost Engineers specialize in managing, analyzing, and optimizing project costs throughout the project’s life cycle. Their responsibilities include cost estimation, cost control, cost reporting, risk analysis, and value engineering. Execution of these tasks encompasses scientific principles, advanced techniques, and industry knowledge. Successful cost engineers identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize resource allocation, mitigate risk, and maximize efficiency and return on investment all while remaining compliant and adhering to industry standards.
Annual Salary Range for Cost Engineers
Entry Level – Experienced
$62,000 – $100,000
Education
Bachelor’s Degree
Useful studies: Engineering or Construction Management
Common Skills of Cost Engineers
Problem-solving; Analytics
Engineering; Math; Science
Microsoft Office; Other software programs
Attention to detail; Time management
In-demand Certifications
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Driver’s License
Job Description
Construction Superintendents oversee and coordinate activities on the construction site according to project blueprints and schedule plans. They are responsible for directing subcontractors and working crews, acting as the general contractor’s eyes and ears in the field. Supers are typically the first one on the construction site opening the gates and the last one to leave. They walk through the worksite before the laborers and subcontractors to access the progress and note anything needs and do the same at the end of the day alongside foremen and the subs. Successful superintendents have good communication and interpersonal skills to support and engage the entire construction team.
In absence of this education, more expensive experience in the field is needed.
Annual Salary Range for Construction Superintendents
Entry Level – Experienced
$79,000 – $159,000
Education
Bachelor’s degree: Engineering or Construction Management
and at least 3-4 years in the field.
Common Skills of Construction Superintendents
Interpersonal skills; Communication
Engineering; Math
Microsoft Office
Organization; Problem solving
In-demand Certifications
OSHA 10/ OSHA 30
Electricians are essential throughout construction projects and the development of energy infrastructure. They assemble, install, repair, and maintain wiring, fuses, and other components through which energy flows. The career requires mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and willingness to work in various weather conditions. Electricians who specialize in construction primarily install wiring systems. While electricians who specifically specialize in maintenance work, repair and upgrade existing electrical systems and electrical equipment.
Union Career Pathway
Pre-Apprenticeship → Apprenticeship → Journeyman → Foreman
Annual Salary Range for Electricians
Entry Level – Experienced
$44,000 – $131,000
Education
High school diploma or equivalent; at least 18 years old.
Common Skill for Electricians
Reading schematics & blueprints
Installing wiring, control, and lighting systems
Repairing or replacing electrical wiring
Operate hand tools & power tools
Mathematics; Mechanics; Design
Troubleshooting; Critical thinking; Active listening
Knowledge of local regulations and National Electrical Code
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Electrical Power Line Installers and repairers do installation and maintenance work on the power grid. The essential occupation ensures that the network of cables and wires that move electricity from power plants to consumers is functioning properly. This entails stringing and servicing transmission lines at heights between poles, towers, and buildings. Working with high-voltage electricity at heights takes tremendous caution and attention to safety procedures.
Annual Salary Range for Electrical Lineworker
Entry Level – Experienced
$79,000 – $133,000
Education
Many employers require at least a high school or equivalent.
Common Skills of Electrical Lineworkers
Operating vehicles, mechanized devices, and power equipment
Repairing and maintaining electrical equipment
Identifying defective equipment and devices
Working at heights
In-demand certifications
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Job Description
Construction Managers are essential in project supervision, coordination, budgeting, and planning. These managers are responsible for selecting subcontractors, corresponding with clients, engineers, and architects, creating time schedules and cost structures, keeping the project on time and budget, and ensuring the project is legally compliant with building and safety codes. Depending on the size and scope construction managers may hire other project managers to oversee specific areas of work; in this case, the top level is responsible for coordinating managers to supervise the entire project.
Project managers coordinate procurement, schedules, timelines, and staffing for services and products on a per-project basis. They also analyze budgets, guide work activities, and serve as a point of contact for clients and customers.
Both construction and project management This profession requires exceptional communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills to see a project through effectively and efficiently.
Annual Salary Range for Construction & Project Managers
Entry Level – Experienced
$64,000 – $239,000
Education
Higher education is common for construction and project managers
Useful Studies– Construction Management; Business; Engineering
In some cases, individuals can become construction and project managers with appropriate experience and leadership in construction regardless of formal education or lack thereof.
Common Skills/ Knowledge of Construction & Project Managers
Project management; Cost estimation; Design
Construction methods and materials; Commercial construction
Literacy in construction software (CAD &BIM)
Microsoft Office
In-demand Certifications
Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Licensed Professional Engineer
OSHA 30 / OSHA 10
Driver’s license
Job Description
Electrical Project Engineers specifically work on energy projects in all phases of electrical power generation including transmission, distribution, substation, and battery storage systems. Importantly, they coordinate closely with project management teams to develop engineering plans and procedures. Project engineers also prepare and monitor project submittals, as well as analyze monthly budgets and project costs. This enables them to offer suggestions that enhance financial and practical efficiency. Commonly the profession helps with purchase orders, subcontracts, and the assurance that materials are approved, delivered, and tracked appropriately to ensure smooth operations. Electrical project engineers must have outstanding written and verbal communication skills to adequately articulate construction plans to diverse audiences such as project managers, non-technical team members, stakeholders, and the public.
Annual Salary Range for Civil & Electrical Engineers
Entry Level – Experienced
$68,000 – $172,000
Education
Bachelor’s Degree
Knowledge: construction systems, engineering mechanics, physics, and math.
Common Skills for Project Engineers
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software; Autodesk
Microsoft Office
Engineering; Math; Science
Problem-solving; detail-oriented
Strong written and verbal communication; Technical writing
Outstanding organization and time management
In-demand Certifications
Licensed Professional Engineer
driver’s license
OSHA 30
Job Description
Cost Engineers specialize in managing, analyzing, and optimizing project costs throughout the project’s life cycle. Their responsibilities include cost estimation, cost control, cost reporting, risk analysis, and value engineering. Execution of these tasks encompasses scientific principles, advanced techniques, and industry knowledge. Successful cost engineers identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize resource allocation, mitigate risk, and maximize efficiency and return on investment all while remaining compliant and adhering to industry standards.
Annual Salary Range for Cost Engineers
Entry Level – Experienced
$62000 – $100,000
Education
Bachelor’s Degree
Useful studies: Engineering or Construction Management
Common Skills of Cost Engineers
Problem-solving; Analytics
Engineering; Math; Science
Microsoft Office; Other software programs
Attention to detail; Time management
In-demand Certifications
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Driver’s License
Job Description
Construction Superintendents oversee and coordinate activities on the construction site according to project blueprints and schedule plans. They are responsible for directing subcontractors and working crews, acting as the general contractor’s eyes and ears in the field. Supers are typically the first one on the construction site opening the gates and the last one to leave. They walk through the worksite before the laborers and subcontractors to access the progress and note anything needs and do the same at the end of the day alongside foremen and the subs. Successful superintendents have good communication and interpersonal skills to support and engage the entire construction team.
In absence of this education, more expensive experience in the field is needed.
Annual Salary Range for Construction Superintendents
Entry Level – Experienced
$79,000 – $159,000
Education
Bachelor’s degree: Engineering or Construction Management
And at least 3-4 years in the field
Common Skills of Construction Superintendents
Interpersonal skills; Communication
Engineering; Math
Microsoft Office
Organization; Problem solving
In-demand Certifications
OSHA 10/ OSHA 30
Job Description
Civil Drafters prepare detailed drawings, maps, and other key planning documents for civil infrastructure projects. The occupation combines technical and artistic design skills to graphically present information such as location, alignments, surfaces, and earthwork quantity calculations. Civil drafters work with computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) software systems. They also work closely with project engineers and managers and therefore must function well in team environments.
Annual Salary Range for Civil Drafter
Entry Level – Experienced
$45,000 – $99,000
Education
Associate degree and/or relevant experience learning the software.
Common Skills of Civil Drafters
AutoCAD Civil 3D; ArcGIS
Attention to detail
Critical thinking; Creativity; Coordination
Time Management; Collaboration
Knowledge of building materials, engineering practices, and mathematic
Job Description
Drone Operators are federally licensed pilots of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV); in the construction industry these drone operators double as surveying technicians. It is their responsibility to operate the drone safely, comply and communicate with air traffic control, and complete aerial surveys of projects. The job entails regular site visits and extended periods outdoors. Drone operators typically work in pairs because of the multiple priorities while surveying a site. Operators and surveyors accurately interpret the images and data they collect, then use it on platforms such as AutoCAD to organize and display the information needed. This information greatly helps project management and project engineer teams with pre-construction plans, timeline status, material updates, and tracking progress on the work site.
Annual Salary Range for Drone Operators & Surveying Technicians
Entry Level – Experienced
$40,000 – $96,000
Education
Training from on-the-job experience, vocational school, or an associate’s degree is often necessary for this occupation.
Common Skills of Drone Operators & Surveying Technicians
Analyzing data; Documenting information
Hand-eye coordination; Spatial awareness
Use of computers and electronics
Geography; Design; CAD & BIM
In-demand Certifications
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107)
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Driver’s License
Job Description
Truck and diesel engine mechanics maintain and repair any diesel engine including automobile, marine, and construction equipment diesel engines. They can diagnose, adjust, and overhaul these vehicles and equipment. Diesel engine mechanics perform routine maintenance and reliable corrective troubleshooting on various equipment types, including tractor-trailers, heavy-duty construction equipment, light duty trucks/ automobiles, and machines. Mechanics in the construction industry must be comfortable working in a demanding fast-paced environment.
Annual Salary Range for Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Entry Level – Experienced
$52,000 – $83,000
Education
High-school diploma or equivalent
Common Skills of Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Inspecting, disassembling, and rebuilding mechanical systems to ensure proper operating conditions.
Monitoring and maintaining processes, materials, and surroundings.
Use of hand tools & power tools.
Documenting information.
In-demand Certifications
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Preferred
Job Description
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required to drive a tractor-trailer or a truck of at least 26,001 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVW). Heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers navigate, maneuver, and drive these industrial vehicles. These drivers transport large construction equipment, aggregate materials, and industry parts to and from construction sites.
Annual Salary Range for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Entry Level – Experienced
$43,000 – $83,000
Education
Some employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Requirement: Commercial Drivers License (CDL).
Common Skills of Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Equipment maintenance
Coordination
Identifying objects & actions
Inspecting equipment & materials
In-demand certifications
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Job Description
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators move materials throughout the construction site. The occupation entails navigating, maneuvering, and driving vehicles on the site. Truck and tractor operators manually and mechanically load and unload materials using various equipment such as pallets, skids, forklifts, and elevating platforms.
Annual Salary Range for Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
Entry Level – Experienced
$37,000 – $72,000
Education
Some employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common Skills of Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
Equipment maintenance
Coordination
Identifying objects & actions
Inspecting equipment & materials
In-demand certification
Driver’s license
OSHA 10 / OSHA 30
Job Description
Construction Safety Managers are responsible for ensuring construction projects maintain the highest standards of safety protocol. They collaborate with the contractors to develop safety plans specific to the complexities throughout the project. Safety managers foster a proactive and effective safety culture amongst all workers, training and monitoring employees based on safety policies. This entails ensuring that all aspects of the project, including people and practices, comply with company standards, and local, state, and federal laws. They have the authority to instate corrective measures and take disciplinary actions for employees who fail to comply with safety standards. Safety managers often conduct safety audits, inspections, worksite assessments, and written reports that findings that can enhance safety and reduce the rate of accidents.
Annual Salary Range for Construction Safety Managers
Entry Level – Experienced
$53,000 – $136,000
Education
Bachelor’s degree or 5-10 years of safety experience.
Common Skills of Construction Safety Managers
Instructing; Speaking; Social Perceptiveness
Operations Analysis; Operations monitoring
Leadership
Familiar with DOSH, ANSI, NFPA, EPA regulations
In-demand certification
OSHA 30 / OSHA 10
May need OSHA 50, OSHA 500, and others
Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification
Driver’s license
Union Trade
Operating Engineers
Construction Laborers
Carpenters
Plumbers
Steamfitters & Pipefitters
Ironworkers
Sheet МetаІ Workers
Painters & Drywall Finishers
HVAC Technicians
Trade Progression
Apprentice
Laborer
Journeyman
Foreman
Non-Trade
Project Managers
Civil Project Engineers
Cost Engineer
Superintendent
Union Trade
Electrician
Electrical Power Line Workers
Trade Progression
Apprentice
Laborer
Lineman Journeyman
Foreman
Non-Trade
Project Managers
Electrical Project Engineers
Cost Engineer
Superintendent
Civil Drafters
Drone Operator / Surveyor
Mechanics
Truck Drivers
Equipment Movers
Safety Manager
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