The construction sector is incredibly vital to society as it provides us with homes, highways and every other structure you can think of. If you’re looking for a role to begin your construction career or want to change your current one, there are many different jobs in the construction industry.
The construction industry is accessible even to those without previous experience or education. A dedicated and hard-working approach to any position in this industry will get you far.
Still, deciding exactly which role you’re best suited for can be challenging. We’ve compiled some statistics regarding the current state of the market, a list of common construction industry job descriptions and job opportunities within construction equipment to help you make an informed decision.
Construction Industry Overview
The market size of the construction industry in the United States is valued at $2.8 trillion and accounts for 4.3% of the country’s GDP. Roughly 7.8 million people work in construction in the U.S. in 2023, which is 2.9% of the total U.S. workforce. Right now is the perfect time to enter the construction workforce. There is a shortage of construction workers, and the market is expected to grow in the coming years.
The construction industry encompasses a wide range of processes, including the creation of buildings and structures, as well as their design, maintenance and repair. There are three main sectors of the construction industry:
- Buildings: Building construction centers around residential, commercial and institutional buildings. This includes homes, offices, retail stores, schools and hospitals.
- Infrastructure: Transportation systems — roads, bridges, railways and airports — and utility systems for water, electricity and sewerage form the main functions of infrastructure construction.
- Industrial: Industrial construction refers to factories, manufacturing plants and warehouses.
Common Construction Jobs
There are plenty of career opportunities in the construction industry thanks to its diverse range of applications. Some of the most common roles you’ll come across are:
- Construction worker: Perform physical duties within construction sites like bricklaying, digging, clearing and transporting materials.
- Construction manager: Oversee all the activities within a construction site and ensure workers are effective and safe.
- Architect: Plan the design, functionality and material specifications of buildings.
- Electrician: Install and maintain electrical wiring and systems.
- Plumber: Install and maintain piping for plumbing fixtures.
- Painter: Prepare and paint walls and floors.
Construction Equipment Jobs
A large part of the construction industry involves the sale and repair of construction equipment. In fact, North America is the second biggest market for construction equipment in the world, with a market size of $157.1 billion in 2023. If you’re looking to enter the construction market, this sector has some of the best jobs in the construction industry, thanks to their accessibility. If you don’t have all the skills you need, you can learn them through apprenticeships and on-the-job experience.
Below are a few construction equipment-related jobs to consider.
1. Equipment Sales Representative
An equipment sales representative is responsible for helping customers purchase or rent the right equipment based on their individual needs and goals. This role primarily focuses on developing customer relationships, so you’ll need great people skills and a knack for making sales. An understanding of all the various product features and benefits will also be vital.
2. Service Technician
A service technician in the construction equipment industry is a specialist who performs services and repairs on a wide range of construction equipment. Your role as a service technician will include assisting customers with machine-related queries. This includes setting up new equipment, maintenance, diagnosing problems and performing repairs. You may need to travel to perform your services at construction sites or while on the move as well.
There are a wide range of service technician specializations, including:
- Auto mechanic: Perform the hands-on work of fixing automotive vehicles.
- Auto technician: Conduct specialized auto assessments and repairs.
- Diesel mechanic: Work specifically with diesel engines.
- Heavy equipment technician: Diagnose and repair issues with heavy machinery and tools.
- Forklift technician: Operate and repair forklifts specifically.
- Rental mechanics: Oversee the maintenance and repairs of rental construction machines.
- Material handling technician: Manage and inspect construction equipment and parts inventory.
Some companies offer programs for service trainee technicians so you can try out the different types with a mentor and figure out what you want to specialize in.
3. Parts Sales Representative
Construction equipment requires various parts to function, most of which eventually need replacing. A parts sales representative understands the company’s parts inventory and can make expert recommendations for all customer queries. They’ll also assist in ordering every part needed to repair machinery.
This role may include working at the counter to make sales or within the warehouse to manage and sort inventory.
4. Administrative Jobs
If working directly with construction equipment isn’t something you’re interested in, but you have an understanding and passion for the industry, an administrative job may be perfect for you.
The following administrative roles are available in the construction industry:
- Human resources (HR)
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Credit and financing
- Information technology (IT)
- Warranty administration
5. Truck Driver
A truck driver within the equipment construction industry will mainly transport heavy equipment to and from construction sites. However, you’ll also need to perform truck inspections, maintenance and administrative tasks like planning routes and filling in paperwork. Most companies require truck drivers to have a commercial driving license (CDL).
6. Safety Specialist
Safety is a huge concern in construction, as working with heavy equipment and construction tools can be dangerous. Safety specialists — like site inspectors and safety managers — ensure that the company they work for follows all environmental health and safety (EHS) protocols for employees, creates accident prevention policies and trains staff on safe practices. They will sometimes provide the same services to customers depending on their job responsibilities.
7. Equipment Trainer
If you have previous experience operating and handling heavy construction equipment and are an effective teacher, an equipment trainer job would be something you can consider. You’ll spend your time training new staff to perform all the duties you’re an expert in, which could include selling, repairing, operating and servicing equipment.
Start Your Construction Career at Holt of California
Holt of California is the leading supplier of construction equipment and services throughout central California. We have multiple construction industry job opportunities available, whether you’re looking for a full-time or part-time job. We also provide training and mentorship to teach you the right skills, no matter what your level of experience is.
All our positions come with competitive benefits — including comprehensive medical insurance, a 401(k) investment and more — and we strive to provide safe and enjoyable working conditions. When you choose to work with us, we’ll do everything we can to meet your needs and improve your skills.
Kick-start your career with us by applying for one of our open job positions today. We look forward to working with you and watching you grow!
