What Does a Construction Assistant Do?

Construction assistants are the boots on the ground in the construction industry. They help with all aspects of building projects, from breaking ground to finishing touches. Their duties may include anything from laying concrete or asphalt to installing drywall or flooring.

Construction assistants typically work under the supervision of a contractor or foreman. They may also work alongside other tradespeople such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc.

Construction Assistant Job Duties

Construction assistants have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Operating a computerized drawing program to create blueprints and other drawings for construction projects
• Preparing cost estimates for construction projects based on building plans provided by architects or engineers
• Helping to prepare work sites for construction by laying down tarps, setting up scaffolding, and unloading supplies
• Communicating with contractors, architects, engineers, and other construction workers to coordinate projects
• Installing drywall, cabinets, flooring, windows, doors, plumbing fixtures, tile, paint, and other materials used in construction projects
• Constructing models of projects to help architects and engineers visualize their designs before construction begins
• Helping architects and engineers prepare drawings of buildings and other structures
• Working in an office setting to help design new structures using computer software or other tools
• Cleaning up job sites after construction is complete to remove debris and ensure safety

Construction Assistant Salary & Outlook

The salary of a construction assistant can vary depending on their level of experience, the type of project they are working on, and the geographic location of the job.

• Median Annual Salary: $41,500 ($19.95/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $70,500 ($33.89/hour)

The employment of construction assistants is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

Employment growth will be driven by the need to repair and upgrade the nation’s infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and water systems. In addition, the need to build new structures, such as power plants and factories, will continue to support demand for construction workers.

Construction Assistant Job Requirements

A construction assistant typically needs to have the following qualifications:

Education: A high school diploma or GED certificate is often a minimum requirement for a construction assistant position. However, some employers may prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction management or construction engineering. These degrees can provide a foundation in construction principles and practices, including building codes, design, construction, safety and project management.

Training & Experience: Many employers will provide on-the-job training for newly hired construction assistants. This training will teach the assistant how to complete specific tasks and may include instruction on how to use certain equipment.

Certifications & Licenses: Construction assistants are not required to have certifications, however, some states do have requirements for construction workers to have licenses. If a construction project is going to be completed in a specific state, the candidate may need to obtain a license for that state.

Construction Assistant Skills

Construction assistants need the following skills in order to be successful:

Organization: Construction assistants should be able to organize their time and tasks to ensure they complete their work on time. Organization skills can also help you keep track of your tools and materials.

Communication: Construction assistants often work with a team of other construction workers. It’s important to be able to communicate effectively with your coworkers to ensure that you understand each other and work together to complete your tasks. You may also need to communicate with your supervisor or other members of the construction company.

Attention to detail: Construction assistants should have excellent attention to detail to ensure they complete their tasks correctly. This can help ensure the quality of the work you do and help you avoid mistakes. Attention to detail can also help you work more efficiently and complete your tasks on time.

Time management: Construction assistants often have multiple tasks to complete in a day, so time management is an important skill for them to have. Knowing how to prioritize your tasks and how long each task should take can help you manage your time effectively.

Problem-solving: Problem-solving skills are also important for construction assistants. You may need to solve problems with tools, equipment or materials, and you may need to solve problems with other people. For example, if you notice that a tool isn’t working properly, you may need to find a solution to fix it. Or if you notice that a coworker isn’t following the proper safety protocol, you may need to find a solution to help them understand the importance of following the rules.

Construction Assistant Work Environment

Construction assistants work on construction sites, where they may be exposed to noise, dust, and dangerous equipment. They typically work 40 hours per week, but overtime is often required to meet deadlines. Construction assistants typically work on teams of other construction workers, such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers. They may also work with architects and engineers to ensure that the construction project is proceeding according to plan. Construction assistants must be able to follow instructions carefully and to work well with others. They must also be physically fit, as the job often requires lifting heavy objects and working in awkward positions.

Construction Assistant Trends

Here are three trends influencing how construction assistants work. Construction assistants will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for More Technical Skills

The construction industry is evolving rapidly, and it is becoming increasingly important for assistants to have technical skills.

As more and more projects are being built using complex technologies, assistants will need to be able to understand and work with these systems in order to provide the best possible support. This includes everything from installing software updates to troubleshooting hardware problems.

More Collaboration Between Design and Construction

The trend of collaboration between design and construction is growing as both professions realize that they need each other in order to create the best possible buildings.

Construction assistants can take advantage of this trend by developing strong communication and organizational skills. They will need to be able to communicate effectively with designers and be able to manage the many details involved in a project. In addition, they will need to be able to stay organized and on schedule so that they can meet the needs of their clients.

A Greater Focus on Sustainability

Sustainability has become an increasingly important topic in the construction industry, as builders are looking for ways to make their projects more environmentally friendly.

As a result, construction assistants will need to learn how to implement sustainable practices into their work. This includes learning about renewable energy sources, recycling, and green building materials.

How to Become a Construction Assistant

A career as an engineering assistant can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the engineering field. As an engineering assistant, you’ll have the opportunity to work with a variety of engineers on projects that are important to society. You’ll also learn about different types of engineering and how they impact our lives.

To become an engineering assistant, you’ll need to have a strong math and science background. You should also be able to communicate effectively and be comfortable working with computers.

Advancement Prospects

Construction assistants typically start out working under the supervision of a more experienced construction worker. As they learn the trade and develop their skills, they are given more responsibility and may eventually be promoted to lead construction worker. With experience, construction assistants may become project managers, construction managers, or general contractors. Some construction assistants start their own construction businesses.

Construction Assistant Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we’re committed to building better futures—for our clients, our employees, and our communities. We’re currently seeking a construction assistant to join our team and help us achieve our goal of being the premier builder in the area. The ideal candidate will have experience in the construction industry, as well as a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and safety regulations. He or she will be responsible for assisting the construction manager with a variety of tasks, including project coordination, scheduling, and site inspections. If you’re looking for an opportunity to be a part of something larger and make a positive impact on your community, we want to hear from you.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as the point of contact between construction site and office staff, relaying messages and updates in a timely manner
• Assist with ordering and tracking construction materials and supplies, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of delivery
• Help maintain construction schedules and project timelines, communicating delays or potential issues to relevant parties
• Serve as on-site assistant to the construction manager, performing tasks as needed to keep the project running smoothly
• Help coordinate the work of subcontractors, keeping them on task and within budget
• Keep the construction site clean and organized, disposing of debris and waste in a safe and responsible manner
• Help conduct regular safety inspections of the construction site and equipment, reporting any hazards or potential risks
• Assist with the setup and takedown of temporary structures and fencing as needed
• Help document the progress of the construction project through photos and written reports
• Maintain accurate records of construction expenses and invoices
• Prepare final punch list of items to be completed before project completion
• Perform general administrative tasks as needed, such as answering phones, filing paperwork, and scheduling appointments

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven experience as an administrative assistant, construction assistant, or similar role
• Working knowledge of office equipment and software (including Microsoft Office)
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in business administration, construction management, or related field
• 2+ years experience in a construction office environment
• Proficiency in AutoCAD
• Experience with project management software, such as Procore or Bluebeam
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)