top of page

10 Great Career Paths for Builders

Updated: Mar 31, 2023


Builders' Day - Mortenson Utah - 10 Great Career Paths for Builders

Are you a student who's excited by the sight of towering high-rises, the sound of power tools, or the smell of fresh sawdust? If so, you've likely considered exploring a career in the construction industry.


While it would be impossible to cover every path the industry has to offer in just one article, this list provides a good starting point for your exploration of the industry. Whether you enjoy crunching the numbers or working with your hands, there's a career on this list that's sure to pique your interest.


So let's jump in! Here are ten awesome career paths that you could pursue in the world of builders:


1. Construction Manager:


As a construction manager, you'll be in charge of overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects. It's a high-stakes job that requires excellent communication and sophisticated problem-solving skills, but the rewards are well worth it.


2. Civil Engineer:


Do you get a thrill out of designing structures that are both functional and awe-inspiring? If so, a career in civil engineering might be the perfect fit for you. Civil engineers use their knowledge of physics and mathematics to help design roads, bridges, and buildings that are safe, efficient, and sustainable.


3. Architect:


As an architect, you'll get to use your creativity and imagination to design structures that are as beautiful as they are purposeful. With the soul of an artist, and the mind of a master-craftsman, you'll work closely with clients to understand their needs and preferences, and then develop the plans and specifications for the construction of the project.


4. Construction Estimator:


If you happen to be a numbers whiz, an estimating career might be right up your alley. Estimators are responsible for calculating the cost of construction projects by analyzing project specifications, blueprints, and material cost trends.


5. Surveyor:


Surveyors are the adventurers of the construction world. Using high-tech surveying equipment, they measure and map out the land to determine the best locations for buildings, roads, and other structures. It's a job that requires both technical expertise and a love and appreciation for the great outdoors.


6. Carpenter:


If you love working with your hands and building things from scratch, a career as a carpenter could be right for you. Carpenters use a variety of tools and materials to build things like frameworks, walls, roofs, and decks. It's hands on work that requires passion and a commitment to craftmanship.


7. Electrician:


Electricians are the wizards of the construction world, using their mastery of electrical systems to bring life to the buildings we occupy. They install and maintain the electrical systems, wiring, lighting, and other components to ensure that buildings are safe, functional, and energy-efficient.


8. Plumber:


Imagine being the hero who makes sure clean water flows smoothly through buildings and waste is safely taken away. That's exactly what a plumber does! Plumbers are responsible for installing and maintaining plumbing systems in buildings, making sure everything runs smoothly. They keep our water clean and healthy, and our waste out of sight and out of mind. It's an in-demand, hands-on career with a real impact.


9. Heavy Equipment Operator:


As a heavy equipment operator, you'll become a skilled professional operating giant machinery like cranes, bulldozers, and excavators. You'll move mountains and sculpt the earth beneath our feet. If you're up for the challenge, you could be an essential part of building big things such as highways and skyscrapers. Get ready to see the world from a whole new perspective – high up in the sky, controlling the ultimate power machines!


10. HVAC Technician:


You know that satisfying feeling of walking into a room and immediately experiencing a rush of cool air on a hot day, or a cozy warmth on a cold winter night? That's all thanks to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) experts! These talented technicians install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in buildings, making sure they're always comfortable and energy-efficient, and keeping the air we breathe clean and healthy.


This list presented only ten of the many career paths available to students interested in exploring a career in construction. Whether you're driven towards designing structures, managing projects, or working with your hands, our industry has a path to success to fit your unique interests. With a growing demand for new construction and infrastructure projects, there's never been a better time to explore the possibilities of a career as a builder.

Builder's Day Logo.png

© 2023 M. A. Mortenson Company

bottom of page