From watching Bob the Builder as a kid to seeing all the construction in the city, the construction industry has always held a certain amount of mystery. Despite the mystery, this exciting, fast-paced career path is immensely rewarding.
1. carpenter
Carpenters have some of the most versatile jobs in construction. While each carpentry specialty has its own responsibilities, a carpenter is often involved in shaping and repairing a building's framing and structures. This includes tasks such as measuring, cutting and framing wood, glass and drywall.
Most carpenters today are self-employed; therefore, they choose their own customers and hours. Also, not much formal training is required; most learn on the job, through an apprenticeship, or start out as an assistant.
2. Electrician
Most electricians are contractors working in industrial, commercial or residential settings. Oftentimes, they work in cramped spaces and deal with dangerous power tools, making this one of the most skilled construction jobs.
An electrician's job often involves installing and checking wiring and lighting systems according to a building's plans or technical diagrams. For this reason, most electricians must obtain certification from an electrical licensing board and attend technical school before they can begin work.
3. Plumber
We've all called a plumber to deal with a clogged toilet or pesky bathroom pipes that don't work. Although plumbers may need some training to deal with these complex water lines, training is easily accessible through a trade school or apprenticeship. After training, you're ready to work for an average of $20 an hour.
4. Painter
These are not the Picasso or Van Goghs of the world (although they have artistic skills). These are the people who give the walls of a building its finished look. Painters not only clean and level walls and other surfaces, they also decorate with paint and spray guns. It's a complex and physically demanding job at times, but these people are up for the task.
Most painters learn their craft on the job or through apprenticeships, so it's very easy to make money quickly with this career path. Painters also have the opportunity to work full-time and become self-employed.
