General Contractor

Career Guide

A General Contractor manages construction projects from planning through completion. They coordinate people, materials, schedules, permits, budgets, and safety to deliver buildings and renovations on time and to agreed quality.

Browse All Roles

Key Responsibilities

Review project plans and clarify scope with the client
Create project schedules and milestone plans
Estimate costs and prepare bids
Hire and manage subcontractors
Order and track materials and equipment
Coordinate inspections and permit requirements
Manage jobsite safety practices and compliance
Monitor quality and resolve construction issues
Track budget, change orders, and payments
Communicate progress to clients and stakeholders
Maintain project documentation and closeout records

Top Skills for Success

Project Planning

Scheduling

Cost Estimating

Budget Management

Subcontractor Management

Vendor Management

Contract Negotiation

Change Order Management

Quality Control

Safety Management

Building Code Knowledge

Permit Coordination

Blueprint Reading

Risk Management

Problem Solving

Client Communication

Leadership

Time Management

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Construction Project Manager

Senior Project Manager

Construction Superintendent

Construction Manager

Operations Manager

Owner of a Contracting Business

Transition Opportunities

Owner Representative

Facilities Manager

Construction Estimator

Real Estate Development Project Manager

Building Inspector

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Accurate Cost EstimatingSchedule ManagementChange Order ManagementContract AdministrationDocumentation DisciplineConflict ResolutionCash Flow ManagementSafety Program ExecutionDigital Project Management Tool Use

Development SuggestionsBuild a repeatable estimating and change order process, strengthen documentation habits, and use a standard project tracking tool for schedule, costs, and site issues. Seek mentorship from an experienced superintendent or project manager and practice presenting updates clearly to clients and crews.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 55,000 to 75,000

Mid LevelUSD 75,000 to 105,000

Senior LevelUSD 105,000 to 160,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand driven by residential renovation, infrastructure upgrades, and commercial maintenance. Hiring varies by local building activity and interest rates.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Turner ConstructionSkanskaKiewitPCL ConstructionGilbane Building CompanyDPR ConstructionHensel PhelpsLennarD.R. HortonToll Brothers

Industry Sectors

Residential ConstructionCommercial ConstructionIndustrial ConstructionPublic InfrastructureRenovation and RemodelingFacilities MaintenanceDisaster Recovery and Rebuild

Recommended Next Steps

Compile a portfolio of completed projects with scope, budget, schedule, and before and after photos

Strengthen estimating skills with structured takeoff practice and bid comparisons

Adopt a consistent system for daily logs, requests for information, and change tracking

Complete safety training aligned to your local requirements and jobsite risks

Build a reliable subcontractor bench and evaluate performance after each project

Review local licensing rules and keep insurance coverage current

Ask for client references and written testimonials to support future bids