Job Description of General Contractors

A general contractor is responsible for projecting the needs of a construction project and seeing it through to completion. He is required to oversee the whole picture while concentrating on each small detail. He understands cost factors and knows who to hire to get the job done.

Job Description

A general contractor bids for building projects. He is responsible for every aspect of the project. He hires people such as engineers, electricians, plumbers or workers in any field needed to complete the project. He is also responsible for their machinery and any materials they will need to perform their tasks.

He must have a talent for communication and record keeping. He knows who the reliable sub-contractors are in his area and is capable of perfecting each detail of the job at hand.

Education

The job regulations do not require a degree but employers in the field are trending towards it.  A bachelor's degree in construction management is one choice that will help a person in this career. This degree will give knowledge in blue prints. It will also enhance his abilities to oversee on the site and usually includes hands on experience in the field.

An associate’s degree will give more knowledge for the business side of this profession. The student will learn how to be efficient in accounting and computer literacy. This study also involves time learning about the regulations in the industry.

Career Expectations

Education with either degree will give an edge in the field but a bachelor's degree is the required degree for more jobs within this career. Employment choices are on the rise in this field. Heavy construction is one area with more employment opportunities available.

The salary for a general contractor is varied to say the least. Depending on the industry, education and experience, he will make between $50,000 and $85,000 a year. Even at the bottom of the general contracting career income is above the average worker with a promise of high earnings.