Construction Arbitrator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the building and construction industry, the role of construction arbitrators has never been more crucial.

As the industry evolves, so does the need for knowledgeable individuals who can navigate, resolve, and safeguard against construction-related disputes.

But let’s delve into the specifics: What’s truly expected from a construction arbitrator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner mechanics of construction arbitration,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable construction arbitrator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get straight to it.

Construction Arbitrator Duties and Responsibilities

Construction Arbitrators facilitate resolution in disputes relating to construction projects, often between parties such as contractors, sub-contractors, owners, engineers, and architects.

They need to have a thorough understanding of construction law and contracts, and they must be able to make fair and informed decisions.

The duties and responsibilities of Construction Arbitrators include:

• Reviewing and analyzing contract terms, project documentation, and evidence submitted by parties
• Coordinating and conducting arbitration hearings, ensuring that all parties have a fair chance to present their case
• Applying legal and contractual knowledge to assess the validity of claims and defenses
• Conducting site visits, if necessary, to better understand the context of the dispute
• Mediating between parties to facilitate settlement, if possible
• Writing detailed and reasoned arbitration awards, clearly explaining the basis for the decision
• Maintaining impartiality and confidentiality throughout the arbitration process
• Keeping up-to-date with changes in construction law and arbitration practices

 

Construction Arbitrator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled and experienced Construction Arbitrator to manage disputes that arise within our construction projects.

As a Construction Arbitrator, your responsibilities will include evaluating contract disagreements, interpreting legal documents, and providing a resolution to disputes.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the construction industry, excellent negotiation skills, and extensive experience in conflict resolution.

The ultimate goal is to provide fair and equitable resolution to disputes ensuring compliance with construction law and industry standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Reviewing and evaluating contract disagreements and disputes
• Interpreting and enforcing construction contracts and legal documents
• Conducting arbitration meetings and hearings
• Mediating between different parties to reach resolution
• Preparation of arbitral awards and settlement agreements
• Staying updated with changes in construction law and industry standards
• Advising on dispute avoidance strategies
• Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information
• Providing expert advice on construction law and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Construction Arbitrator or similar role
• Knowledge of construction law and industry regulations
• Experience in conflict resolution and negotiation
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to interpret complex legal documents
• Professional certification in arbitration or related field is preferred
• Degree in Law, Construction Management or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Construction Arbitrator
• Work Environment: This role typically operates in an office environment, with occasional visits to construction sites. Some travel may be required for arbitration hearings or meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Legal Affairs or Construction Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Construction Arbitrator Do?

A Construction Arbitrator is a neutral third-party professional who steps in to resolve disputes related to the construction industry.

They are typically involved in disputes between various parties such as contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, and owners.

These disputes may relate to construction defects, delays, cost overruns, contract interpretation, or quality of work.

Construction Arbitrators will first thoroughly review the contracts, documentation, and facts presented by the disputing parties.

They may also conduct site visits to better understand the issues at hand.

Using their extensive knowledge of construction law, practices, and standards, they then mediate discussions and negotiations between the parties.

If a mutual agreement cannot be reached, the arbitrator will make a binding decision based on the evidence and the principles of justice and fairness.

They also write and deliver final arbitral awards, explaining the reasoning behind their decisions.

They must ensure that their decisions are legally sound and enforceable, and they often work closely with legal professionals to achieve this.

The aim of a Construction Arbitrator is to provide a swift, fair, and less formal alternative to court litigation, saving the disputing parties time and money.

 

Construction Arbitrator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient construction arbitrator should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of construction law and contract interpretation to effectively manage disputes related to construction projects.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the details of the dispute and make impartial decisions based on the facts presented.
• Exceptional negotiation skills to help parties reach a mutually agreeable solution.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills for expressing complex legal concepts and arbitration decisions in a clear and understandable way.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish rapport and trust with all involved parties, fostering an environment conducive to constructive dialogue and resolution.
• Conflict resolution skills to mediate the dispute effectively and facilitate the achievement of a fair outcome.
• Time management skills to handle multiple cases and ensure all arbitration proceedings are conducted in a timely manner.
• Demonstrated integrity and impartiality, maintaining professionalism and fairness at all times.
• Understanding of construction processes, materials, and methodologies to accurately assess technical issues involved in the dispute.

 

Construction Arbitrator Experience Requirements

Construction Arbitrators typically possess a significant amount of experience in the construction industry, often starting out in roles such as project management, engineering, or construction law.

At least 5 years of practical experience in the construction field is usually required.

Many arbitrators also have a background in law, as legal knowledge is crucial to understanding contracts and resolving disputes.

Those with a law degree, or experience in a legal role such as a paralegal or contract administrator, may have an advantage.

Beyond this, gaining experience in dispute resolution is essential.

This could be achieved by working under an experienced arbitrator, or through handling dispute resolution tasks in other roles.

Certification in arbitration or a related field, such as mediation or negotiation, is often necessary.

This usually involves coursework and an examination, which can provide practical experience and theoretical knowledge of arbitration techniques.

Finally, employers typically seek arbitrators with a proven track record of successfully resolving disputes.

This could be demonstrated through previous arbitration decisions, or through testimonials from past clients.

More senior roles or those handling larger, more complex disputes may require an arbitrator to have more than 10 years of experience, including significant time spent specifically in arbitration.

 

Construction Arbitrator Education and Training Requirements

Construction Arbitrators typically require a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as construction management, engineering, law or another relevant area.

This is often followed by gaining a significant amount of work experience in the construction industry, to understand the technical aspects, standards, and practices which are crucial when resolving disputes.

Many aspiring Construction Arbitrators continue their education by pursuing a master’s degree in Dispute Resolution or Construction Law, which provides specialized knowledge in mediation, negotiation and arbitration.

To work as a Construction Arbitrator, obtaining a certification from a recognized arbitration institution, such as the American Arbitration Association (AAA), is beneficial.

The certification process usually involves coursework and an examination.

Also, states may require arbitrators to be licensed, so it’s important to check local regulations.

Continued education in the form of seminars, workshops, or courses is also recommended to keep up with the latest changes in construction laws and regulations.

 

Construction Arbitrator Salary Expectations

A Construction Arbitrator makes an average salary of $80,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, level of education, geographic location, and the company they work for.

 

Construction Arbitrator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Construction Arbitrator need?

Construction Arbitrators should possess strong legal knowledge, particularly in construction law.

They also need good negotiation and conflict resolution skills to effectively handle disputes.

A keen analytical ability is also required to scrutinize complex construction contracts and to interpret legal texts.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also necessary to foster a clear understanding among the parties involved.

 

Do Construction Arbitrators need a degree?

Yes, Construction Arbitrators generally need a bachelor’s degree, often in fields such as law, business, or construction management.

Many also hold a law degree (JD) and have previous experience in construction or law.

Additionally, arbitrators typically need certification from arbitration organizations, which usually requires training and an exam.

 

What should you look for in a Construction Arbitrator’s resume?

When reviewing a Construction Arbitrator’s resume, look for a strong educational background in law or construction, and any specialized training in arbitration.

Check for experience in construction or legal fields, and familiarity with construction law.

Certifications from recognized arbitration or mediation organizations are also important.

Analyze their past case handling to understand their dispute resolution skills.

 

What qualities make a good Construction Arbitrator?

A good Construction Arbitrator should have a strong understanding of construction laws and contracts.

They need to be impartial, fair, and able to make decisions under pressure.

Excellent communication skills are necessary, as they need to clearly convey complex legal terms and arbitration procedures to the parties involved.

They should also have a keen eye for detail to review complex documents and contracts.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Construction Arbitrator?

Hiring a Construction Arbitrator can be challenging due to the specific skills and experience needed.

It’s crucial to find an individual with a strong understanding of construction law and experience in the construction industry.

Moreover, they need to be certified and have a proven record in arbitration, making the pool of suitable candidates smaller.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the intriguing world of being a construction arbitrator.

Surprised?

It’s not just about resolving disputes.

It’s about building bridges of resolution, one negotiation at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive construction arbitrator job description template and practical examples, you’re ready for the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating meticulous job listings or honing your resume to unparalleled precision.

Remember:

Every negotiation is a part of the bigger construction project.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

How to Become a Construction Arbitrator (Complete Guide)

Free-Range Careers: The Most Flexible Jobs for Independent Souls

The Joy of Working: Fun Jobs That Pay More Than Just Bills

Odd Jobs: Unbelievably Strange Ways People Make Money

Workplace Woes: The Jobs People Love to Hate