Construction

General Contractor job description

A General Contractor oversees construction projects from foundation to completion — managing subcontractors, ensuring building code compliance, and delivering quality builds on time and within budget.

Published March 21, 2024Updated May 9, 20261442 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking an experienced General Contractor to lead construction projects from pre-construction planning through final delivery for our growing portfolio of residential and commercial developments. In this role, you will take full ownership of project execution, managing budgets ranging from $500K to $5M while coordinating teams of 15+ subcontractors and trade professionals. You will work directly with our project development team, architects, and clients to ensure every build meets our quality standards and timeline commitments. If you have a proven track record of delivering complex construction projects on time and within budget, along with strong leadership skills and deep knowledge of building codes and construction best practices, we want to hear from you. This position offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our community through high-quality construction work and exceptional client relationships.

Key highlights

Manage comprehensive project scheduling using Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project, coordinating subcontractor sequences and material deliveries to maintain critical path milestones
Conduct detailed cost estimating and budget management using RSMeans data and historical project costs, tracking variances and implementing cost control measures
Oversee permit acquisition and municipal inspections, ensuring all work complies with IBC, IRC, and local building codes throughout project phases
Lead weekly project meetings with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to resolve design conflicts, review RFIs, and approve material substitutions

What is a General Contractor?

A General Contractor is a licensed construction professional who serves as the primary project manager and coordinator for residential, commercial, and industrial building projects. General Contractors are responsible for hiring and supervising specialized subcontractors such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians, while ensuring all work meets local building codes, safety regulations, and architectural specifications. They manage every aspect of construction from initial permits and material procurement to final inspections and project closeout. Their expertise in construction management, cost estimation, and regulatory compliance makes them essential to delivering successful building projects that meet client expectations and industry standards.

What does a General Contractor do?

A General Contractor coordinates daily construction activities by scheduling subcontractors, conducting quality inspections, and managing material deliveries to keep projects on schedule. They review architectural drawings and engineering plans with trade professionals, resolve construction issues in real-time, and maintain constant communication with clients, architects, and building inspectors throughout the project lifecycle. General Contractors also prepare detailed cost estimates using construction management software like Procore or BuilderTREND, track project budgets against actual expenses, and submit progress reports to stakeholders. They ensure OSHA safety compliance on job sites, manage permit applications and inspections, and coordinate final walkthroughs before project handover to clients.

Key responsibilities

Manage comprehensive project scheduling using Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project, coordinating subcontractor sequences and material deliveries to maintain critical path milestones
Conduct detailed cost estimating and budget management using RSMeans data and historical project costs, tracking variances and implementing cost control measures
Oversee permit acquisition and municipal inspections, ensuring all work complies with IBC, IRC, and local building codes throughout project phases
Lead weekly project meetings with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to resolve design conflicts, review RFIs, and approve material substitutions
Implement comprehensive safety programs following OSHA 30 standards, conducting daily safety briefings and maintaining incident-free job sites
Manage procurement relationships with material suppliers, negotiating pricing for lumber, concrete, steel, and specialty building materials to optimize project margins
Supervise quality control inspections at key construction milestones, documenting progress with digital photography and maintaining detailed punch lists
Coordinate final project closeout including lien waivers, warranty documentation, and client training on building systems and maintenance requirements

Requirements and skills

Valid General Contractor license with current bonding and comprehensive liability insurance coverage meeting state and local requirements
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent combination of education and 8+ years hands-on construction experience
Proficiency in construction management software including Procore, BuilderTREND, or PlanGrid for project scheduling, document management, and cost tracking
Thorough knowledge of building codes including International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), and local municipal amendments
Experience managing construction budgets exceeding $1M with demonstrated ability to deliver projects within 5% of approved budget and timeline
Strong relationships with licensed subcontractors including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and specialty trade professionals in the local market
OSHA 30 certification with comprehensive understanding of construction safety protocols, hazard identification, and incident prevention strategies
Excellent communication skills for presenting project updates to clients, architects, and municipal officials while resolving complex technical issues collaboratively

FAQs

What does a General Contractor do on a typical day?

A General Contractor starts each day with job site inspections, reviewing work completed by subcontractors and identifying any quality or safety issues that need immediate attention. They spend time coordinating material deliveries, meeting with architects or engineers to resolve design questions, and updating project schedules based on actual progress versus planned milestones. General Contractors also handle administrative tasks like reviewing invoices, processing change orders, and communicating project status to clients and stakeholders. Throughout the day, they troubleshoot construction challenges, ensure OSHA safety compliance, and make critical decisions that keep projects on schedule and within budget.

What qualifications do you need to become a General Contractor?

To become a General Contractor, you need a valid contractor's license in your state, which typically requires passing examinations on construction law, building codes, and business practices. Most states require 4+ years of construction experience plus completion of approved coursework or a construction management degree. General Contractors must maintain bonding and comprehensive liability insurance, often exceeding $1M in coverage. Additional valuable qualifications include OSHA 30 certification for safety compliance, proficiency in construction management software like Procore or Primavera P6, and strong knowledge of local building codes including IBC and IRC standards.

Who does a General Contractor work with on construction projects?

A General Contractor collaborates with a diverse team including architects who provide design specifications, structural engineers who approve load-bearing modifications, and specialized subcontractors such as electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and roofers. They work closely with building inspectors and code officials throughout permit and inspection processes, while maintaining regular communication with project owners, property developers, and real estate professionals. General Contractors also coordinate with material suppliers, equipment rental companies, and municipal departments to ensure smooth project execution from groundbreaking to final occupancy.

What is the average salary range for a General Contractor?

General Contractor salaries vary significantly based on location, project size, and business model, typically ranging from $65,000 to $150,000+ annually for employed contractors. Many General Contractors operate their own businesses, with earnings potential significantly higher based on project volume and profit margins - successful independent contractors often earn $200,000 to $500,000+ annually. Factors affecting compensation include regional construction demand, specialization in high-value projects like commercial or luxury residential construction, and the contractor's reputation for quality and on-time delivery. Additional income often comes from bonuses tied to project completion metrics and profit-sharing arrangements.