The construction industry offers a variety of lucrative job opportunities, including many beyond the well-known roles of architects, engineers, and construction laborers. As a commercial landscape construction contractor—working with general contractors to install landscape, hardscape, irrigation, and site structures—Ruppert has a variety of construction careers available.
In this article, we’ll be highlighting five lesser-known construction careers that you may not have considered but make for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the fast-growing construction industry.
Estimator
Estimators play a vital role in ensuring that construction projects are completed on budget and on time. An estimator is responsible for analyzing construction projects’ costs to determine how much it will cost to complete a project. They work closely with project managers and landscape architects to read and interpret plans and blueprints to provide accurate cost estimates. They analyze project materials, labor costs, equipment costs, and project timelines to provide an accurate cost estimate for the project.
This job may be right for you…
…if you have a strong understanding of construction materials and methods, as well as excellent math skills. You should also be able to read and interpret technical documents, including construction plans and specifications. Estimators are detail-oriented, able to multitask and work under tight deadlines.
Purchaser / Procurement Specialist
Purchasers (commonly called Procurement Specialists in the construction industry) are responsible for purchasing goods and services required for construction projects. They work closely with project managers to identify project needs and ensure that the materials and services required are procured within budget and on time. They negotiate contracts with suppliers, monitor inventory levels, and ensure that the quality of the materials received meets the project’s requirements.
This job may be right for you…
…if you possess excellent negotiation and communication skills, as well as a thorough understanding of the construction industry and its materials. You should also be highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects at once.
Contract Administrator / Cost Analyst
Contract Administrators (commonly called Cost Analysts in the construction industry) are responsible for analyzing the costs associated with construction projects. They work with project managers and estimators to develop budgets, track expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities. They also help ensure that projects are completed within budget by monitoring expenses and identifying areas where costs can be reduced.
This job may be right for you…
…if you have a background in accounting or finance, as well as an understanding of the construction industry and its costs. You should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.
Project Manager & Assistant Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and monitoring of construction projects. They work with general contractors, landscape architects, and subcontractors to develop project plans, manage budgets and schedules, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. They also ensure that projects comply with safety regulations and quality standards.
Assistant Project Managers are responsible for supporting the Project Manager in overseeing construction projects. They help plan and coordinate project schedules, manage budgets and expenses, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. They also help communicate project progress to stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and management.
This job may be right for you…
…if you possess strong leadership skills, as well as excellent, organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities. You should be able to work effectively in a team, manage multiple projects at once, and be comfortable working under tight deadlines.
Field Manager / Superintendent
Field Managers (commonly called Superintendents in the construction industry) are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day construction activities of a project. They work closely with project managers to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They manage and coordinate construction crews, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure that work is completed safely and efficiently.
This job may be right for you…
…if you possess excellent leadership skills, as well as a deep understanding of construction techniques and methods. You should also be able to read and interpret construction plans and specifications and have strong communication and problem-solving skills to handle unexpected challenges that may arise during a project.
At Ruppert, our estimators, procurement specialists, cost analysts, project managers, and superintendents all play a critical role in the successful completion of landscape construction projects. If you have an interest in construction but are unsure of what career path to pursue, consider exploring these lesser known but vital roles. Each position requires a unique set of skills and knowledge, but they all offer rewarding and fulfilling career paths in the construction industry.
To view and apply for open landscape construction positions, visit our careers site: https://www.ruppertlandscape.com/careers/