General Contractor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of construction, the demand for skilled general contractors is continuously growing.

As infrastructure and development projects expand, so does the need for competent professionals who can efficiently manage, coordinate, and oversee every stage of construction projects.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a general contractor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the roles and responsibilities of a general contractor,

You’ve landed at the right place.

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

Let’s delve right into it.

General Contractor Duties and Responsibilities

General Contractors are responsible for planning and supervising construction projects, from residential homes to commercial properties.

They manage the day-to-day operations on the construction site and work closely with architects and other professionals, including subcontractors and suppliers.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Coordinate and supervise the construction process from the conceptual development stage to the final construction, ensuring that the project gets completed on time and within budget
• Read and interpret blueprints, structural drawings, and plan layouts to understand the project scope and specifications
• Hire, schedule, and coordinate subcontractors, construction workers, and tradespeople
• Estimate project costs, prepare budgets, and secure necessary permits and licenses
• Ensure construction site safety by implementing safety standards and protocols
• Monitor progress of the project, resolve issues, and implement changes as needed
• Communicate with clients, architects, and engineers to provide updates and address concerns
• Order and manage materials and equipment
• Ensure quality of work and compliance with building codes and other regulations

 

General Contractor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a reliable, skilled General Contractor to oversee our construction projects.

The General Contractor’s responsibilities include managing all aspects of a project from planning and acquisition of equipment and materials to hiring and overseeing staff and ensuring project completion.

The ideal candidate should have excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of construction procedures, and proven experience in managing construction projects.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee all work on site.
• Manage construction projects, ensuring they are scheduled and built in accordance with plans and specifications.
• Ensure all necessary permits and insurance are in place.
• Monitor compliance with building and safety regulations.
• Coordinate subcontractors, craftspeople, and laborers.
• Order materials and manage delivery.
• Solve problems that might come up during building.
• Communicate with clients about progress, setbacks, and budgetary matters.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a General Contractor or similar role in construction.
• Deep knowledge of building codes and construction safety regulations.
• Experience managing construction budgets.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively and manage a team.
• Capable of reading blueprints and project plans.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; Degree in a relevant field preferred.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: General Contractor
• Work Environment: This role requires on-site work at construction sites. Travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Construction Manager or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 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 General Contractor Do?

General Contractors, also known as construction managers or project managers, are typically hired to oversee construction projects, whether they are residential, commercial, or industrial.

They are responsible for coordinating and managing all work on a construction site, from the initial planning and estimating stages, through the construction process, to the final project closeout.

This includes hiring subcontractors, sourcing materials, monitoring schedules, ensuring quality control, and maintaining safety standards.

General Contractors act as the primary point of contact for the clients or property owners, often meeting with them to discuss their needs, provide updates on progress, and address any issues that may arise.

They also work closely with architects and engineers to ensure that the project is being built according to approved plans and specifications.

A General Contractor must be able to handle any complications that come up during construction, from dealing with unexpected weather conditions to managing supply chain issues.

Their goal is to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of the client, while adhering to all local and national building codes.

 

General Contractor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient General Contractor should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and other legal requirements that pertain to construction.
• Excellent project management skills to plan, coordinate, and oversee all aspects of the construction process, from the conceptual development stage through final construction.
• Ability to work well with a wide range of individuals, including architects, engineers, workers, and clients, using exceptional interpersonal skills.
• Highly developed problem-solving abilities to efficiently identify and resolve issues that arise during the design and construction process.
• Excellent time management and organization skills to ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
• Strong negotiation skills to obtain the best prices from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly explain project plans, updates, and problems to clients and team members.
• Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Physical stamina and strength to handle the demands of construction work.

 

General Contractor Experience Requirements

General Contractors often start their careers by gaining hands-on experience in construction, carpentry, or another related field.

While a high school diploma may be sufficient for some entry-level positions, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a post-secondary education program in construction management or a related field.

Experience requirements vary widely depending on the complexity of the projects the contractor will be overseeing.

For smaller residential projects, 2 to 3 years of experience in the construction industry may be sufficient.

However, larger commercial projects usually require the contractor to have a minimum of 5 years of experience, often in a supervisory or management role.

Candidates with more than 10 years of experience are often considered for complex construction projects that require in-depth knowledge and understanding of construction processes, project management, and regulations.

Furthermore, General Contractors are typically required to have a valid contractor’s license, which requires a certain amount of work experience, passing a licensing exam, and fulfilling continuing education requirements.

They may also need to have specific experience in specialty areas such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC contracting, depending on the nature of the projects they oversee.

 

General Contractor Education and Training Requirements

General Contractors typically need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, many contractors choose to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, architecture, or engineering.

They also need to have solid experience in the construction industry, and many begin their career as construction workers to gain practical, hands-on experience in various construction tasks.

In most states and municipalities, General Contractors are required to obtain a license.

The licensing process typically involves passing a written exam that tests knowledge of construction methods, contract laws, and business practices.

Some licenses also require proof of financial competency.

Continued education is crucial for General Contractors, as they need to stay updated on the latest construction methods, materials, safety protocols, and regulations.

Many Contractors choose to earn professional certifications in niche areas of construction to boost their credentials and marketability.

Understanding architectural and engineering drawings, as well as proficiency in project management software, is also advantageous for a General Contractor role.

In addition, good communication and leadership skills are paramount, as General Contractors often have to coordinate with various professionals, manage teams, and interact with clients.

 

General Contractor Salary Expectations

A General Contractor earns an average salary of $92,823 (USD) per year.

However, the pay range can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, location, the scale of projects they handle, and the company they work for.

 

General Contractor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a General Contractor need?

General Contractors should possess solid communication and negotiation skills to effectively deal with clients, suppliers, and sub-contractors.

They need to have a thorough understanding of construction methods, materials, and regulations.

Good planning and problem-solving skills are also vital to effectively manage and oversee construction projects from start to finish.

 

Do General Contractors need a degree?

While it’s not mandatory, some General Contractors may hold a degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

However, experience in construction and a sound understanding of the business aspects of the industry are typically more important.

Depending on the state, General Contractors may also need a license to operate.

 

What should you look for in a General Contractor resume?

A General Contractor’s resume should display a broad experience in construction, as well as business and financial management skills.

Look for previous projects they’ve managed and check their performance.

Certification or licensing information should also be included.

Familiarity with construction software and project management tools is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good General Contractor?

A good General Contractor is not only knowledgeable about construction but also has excellent leadership and management skills.

They should be able to coordinate a team of workers and subcontractors efficiently and solve problems quickly and effectively.

Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work under pressure are also important qualities.

 

Is it difficult to hire a General Contractor?

Hiring a reliable and skilled General Contractor can be challenging due to the high demand in the construction industry.

It’s essential to vet potential candidates thoroughly, checking their experience, references, and credentials.

Also, consider their communication style and ability to handle stress, as these factors can significantly impact project outcomes.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered what it really means to be a general contractor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about building structures.

It’s about shaping our physical world, one project at a time.

Armed with our indispensable general contractor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why halt your journey there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting meticulous job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Every project is part of a larger vision.

Let’s construct that vision. Together.

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