General Contractor Jobs

General contractors, classified by the BLS as **construction managers**, oversee construction projects from planning to completion, coordinating subcontractors, budgets, and compliance with building codes. The median annual wage for construction managers was **$106,980** ($51.43 per hour) in May 2024, reflecting their supervisory role in the industry. This positions the occupation among higher-paying construction fields, with employment projected to grow **9%** from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, resulting in about **48,100** annual openings.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook page for construction managers is available at the BLS website, providing detailed career information including education (typically a bachelor's degree) and job outlook. Common certifications and licenses for general contractors include state-specific **General Contractor License** (issued by state licensing boards such as California Contractors State License Board), **OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification** (OSHA), **Certified Construction Manager (CCM)** (Construction Manager Certification Institute), and **Project Management Professional (PMP)** (Project Management Institute). These credentials enhance employability and are often required for bidding on projects.