From 2010 through 2020, the demand for workers in construction jobs in Atlanta is predicted to increase by 5.04 percent, growing at a rate of roughly 2.49 percent every year. This means that over 1,100 new jobs will be created in the city in construction-related fields. Whether you’re considering a career change or are getting ready to graduate from high school, a career in construction could provide you with steady income and room for advancement in the future. Read on to learn more about construction jobs in Atlanta.
Atlanta Construction Jobs with No High School Diploma
Some Atlanta construction jobs can be obtained even if you haven’t earned your high school diploma or GED. Often times, drywall installers and tapers who prepare walls and ceilings for painting and drywalling can be hired with little to no experience and then trained on the job. Painters also typically do not require any previous construction experience or a diploma to work in residential or commercial settings. Most contractors will also hire individuals who have little to no experience to set tile and marble surfaces, install carpeting and assist as a general laborer. These types of construction jobs are typically low paying; however, working in one can help you gain experience and allow you to move into higher-paying jobs in the future.
Atlanta Construction Jobs with a High School Diploma
The majority of Atlanta construction jobs will require a high school diploma or GED. Often times, these jobs require advanced skills that you will have to gradually acquire as you work in the field. Some of the jobs that you can get with your diploma or GED include work as a carpenter, a construction equipment operator, a roofer or a sheet metal worker. Carpenters in particular are anticipated to be in very high demand with the need for these types of workers expected to increase by 7 percent through 2020.
Atlanta Construction Jobs with Special Training
Some Atlanta construction jobs typically require prospective workers to complete an apprenticeship prior to becoming a full-fledged independent worker in the field. Apprenticeships typically last for 3 to 5 years and require students to complete classroom courses and hands-on work. Typically, workers are paid during apprenticeships and given more and more responsibility and independence on the job as they progress through the ranks. Insulation workers, individuals who place insulation inside of floors, ceilings and walls, usually complete apprenticeships. Cement masons and terazzo workers who lay concrete and create decorative cement surfaces are also usually expected to have completed an apprenticeship before finding work. The job prospects for cement masons are especially favorable through 2020 with an estimated job growth of 6.34 percent.
Atlanta Construction Jobs with Licensing Requirements
Many Atlanta construction jobs require licensing from various agencies and boards in the state. These jobs are typically higher paying than other types of construction jobs due to the level of expertise needed to obtain a license. Georgia requires licensing in fields that directly affect the safety of the general public. Each regulated construction field has its own set of requirements for licensing; however, usually prospective licensees must pass a written examination. In addition, you will usually need to demonstrate that you have work experience as a construction laborer or assistant in the field in which you wish to work or that you have completed post-secondary education in the field. Some of the Atlanta construction jobs that require state licensure include general contractors, electricians, electrical contractors, glaziers (individuals who install glass), elevator installers and repairmen, hazardous material workers, plumbers and pipefitters. The employment prospects for all of these types of positions are rather favorable through 2020 with an expected growth of 3 to 7 percent.
Atlanta Construction Jobs with Experience or Post-Secondary Education Requirements
The highest paying Atlanta construction jobs are those that have advanced requirements. Average salaries in these fields are often equal or above those that require licensing. In some cases, you may also need to obtain a license plus show additional experience or education to get a job. Some of these high-paying jobs include:
- Foremen or first-line supervisors – First-line supervisors are the individuals who are in charge of a work crew on a job site. Most employers will only hire individuals who have years of proven experience in the field to fill these important positions. Through 2020, the need for first-line supervisors in construction fields is predicted to increase by nearly 7 percent with over 100 new jobs being created in the Atlanta metro area.
- Construction managers – Construction managers are individuals who oversee entire building projects. Their job is to coordinate the efforts of subcontractors and communicate with the foreman to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. To become a construction manager, you typically must hold a bachelor’s degree or have many years of experience in the field. The average starting wages for Atlanta construction manager jobs is $27.60 per hour with managers of average experience earning a mean amount of $42.89 per hour. Projection predicts roughly 210 new construction manager jobs being created in Atlanta through 2020.
- Building inspectors – Building inspectors are responsible for ensuring that buildings are up to safety codes. To work as one in Atlanta, you’ll need to have extensive experience in the field, pass an examination and receive a license from the International Code Council. The demand for building inspectors is expected to increase by about 4.5 percent through 2020. The average building inspector makes around $24.33 per hour in Atlanta.
Keep in mind that the specific job requirements and duties for various Atlanta construction jobs can vary from employer to employer. One thing that many employers prefer is to hire individuals with their own set of tools. Northside Tool Rental can supply you with all of the tools that you need on the job, so that you can tell prospective employers that you’ll be prepared on the first day of work with everything that is required. Give us a call to learn more about our affordable pricing and wide selection of tools.