A general contractor oversees the construction of a building or project from start to finish. This may include hiring subcontractors, ordering materials and arranging for building permits. They also provide hands-on supervision and guidance to workers on the job site.
GCs work with clients to ensure that their projects are delivered on time and within budget. They are responsible for communicating with a number of important stakeholders, including the project’s architect or engineer.
Safety: The primary duty of a general contractor is to ensure that everyone working on the job site is safe and secure at all times. They should be able to assess the site’s risks, implement necessary safety procedures and report any problems that might arise.
Coordination: A general contractor should be able to communicate with the other stakeholders on a construction site, including the project’s architects or engineers, zoning boards and any vendors that supply heavy equipment or materials.
Passion: A good GC should show genuine interest in the project and strive to meet goals, while making changes as needed to get the job done. Keeping a project on time and within the client’s budget requires a strong commitment from a GC to meet all deadlines.
Professionalism: GCs should be courteous and respectful of the rights of others on the job site. This includes not allowing visitors to the site after business hours or letting them into unsecure areas.
Qualifications: A general contractor should have a valid license and appropriate insurance coverage. They should also have relevant work experience and be able to demonstrate proficiency in their field of expertise.
Career outlook: The general construction industry is expected to continue growing, with revenue for the industry estimated at about $2 trillion. This is a very promising market for general contractors, and a high rate of growth should lead to many new jobs for those with the skills and training required to excel in this field.
A general contractor should have a good understanding of the legal framework that governs the construction industry and understand how to make sure their clients’ projects are completed on time, on budget and to their specifications. They should be able to plan and estimate projects accurately using appropriate software and understand best practices for the industry.
In addition, a good general contractor should have strong leadership and management skills. This includes being able to train and supervise employees, resolve problems as they arise and motivate them to do their best work.
The best general contractors are able to keep a project on time and on budget while maintaining high standards of quality. They have extensive knowledge of the industry and are able to adapt quickly to changing requirements.
Licensed: The majority of states require general contractors to be licensed before they can begin working on projects. These licensing requirements vary, but typically include passing a test, proving that you have relevant work experience and verifying your financial records.
Bonding: Most states require a bond as part of the licensing process. These bonds guarantee that you will complete the job in accordance with state regulations and that your clients’ money is protected in the event of a claim or lawsuit.