Contractor skills: Resume and cover letter

Construction can be a physically and psychologically demanding profession, but it can also be individually and monetarily satisfying. A few individuals work in the construction industry for a short period, maybe to help pay for college, whereas others give their whole working lives constructing or tearing down in the world of contracting. Potential construction workers may be unaware of how much of the requisite expertise they already possess. Most people discover contractor skills by operating on their own home projects or volunteering with neighbors or community agencies. Some abilities are incredibly beneficial to building work you may have acquired in another setting, like mathematics.

The construction sector includes a wide range of job categories and job specifications. If you want to work in construction, it can be beneficial to learn the skills required to excel in many of these sorts and positions. Acknowledging the duties and situations related to construction work can also assist you find a suitable job. While construction job may appear to be simple, it is a physically and intellectually demanding profession. There are numerous skills and characteristics that contractors must obtain to be efficient in their job. Construction jobs entail a diverse series of tasks and operational conditions, ranging from maneuvering tight areas and dangerous altitudes to functioning heavy machinery in adverse weather. Even so, for many specialists, the benefits and pacing of this vocation can be promising. Considering diminishing involvement in the trades, those who function in the business for a long time can go on to supervise full building teams and thorough outstanding projects that structure the lives of others. Construction jobs are projected to rise by 10% by 2024, ranking fourth among main sectors such as health and business. A modern construction professional must have a combination of technical expertise, physical strength, and strong communication skills.

In this post, we will examine the significance of contractor skills, contain a collection of some of the most crucial construction skills, and explain how to mention contractor skills on your resume and cover letter.

What are construction or contractor skills?

Constructing is anything to do with the organizing and installation of building facilities. Although most contracting jobs start on-site with unskilled work, arduous tasks, those who have been in the business for a long time can go on to handle overall construction personnel for large projects. Entry-level contracting jobs usually do not require any formal schooling, but high school training courses can be extremely beneficial. A few apprenticeship courses necessitate the completion of a high school certificate or GED. Definite essential skill sets, like welding, may entail specific training and licensing. Many contracting jobs are well-paying.

What is the significance of construction skills?

Construction skills can enable you to get a job in the construction sector, operate well on the work, and establish your own professional identity by supplementing and widening your current skill set. These skills are also significant since, the construction sector expands, and more prospects become available often within and outside of your area of expertise. Besides, several contractor skills are transferable, which means they can be used in other professions.

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List of construction or contractor skills

Bricklaying, woodworking, spreading cement, putting up sheetrock, and placing particular pieces of devices are all examples of particular contractor skills. Although it isn't explicitly related to the position for which you are applying, ensure to inform your potential employer what duties you have encountered performing and how much experience you have. Companies usually value workers who are adaptable and can take on extra responsibilities as necessary. If you want to improve your construction skills, here are a few things to think about;

Physical skills

Here are some physical abilities required for a contractor job and add to a resume and cover letter;

Physical stamina
Heavy lifting
Endurance
Dexterity
Hand-eye coordination
Posture
Lifting technique
Eyesight
Safety protocol
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Fine motor skills
Motor accuracy
First aid and CPR

Design skills

Here is a list of design skills for contracting job, cover letter and resume;

Building codes
Measurements
Developing blueprints
Environmental regulations
Secure worksite development
Computer-aided drafting (CAD)

Communication skills

Here is a list of interpersonal skills for a contractor resume and cover letter;

Conversation skills
Writing messages
Labor relations
Delivering instructions
Following instructions
Leadership
Emotional intelligence
Conflict resolution
Teamwork
Customer service
Quality control
Negotiation

Cognitive skills

Here is a list of cognitive skills for contractor job, resume and cover letter;

Algebra
Geometry
Trigonometry
Reading/Writing
Memory
Critical thinking
Problem solving

Technology skills

Here is a list of technology skills for a contractor job, resume and cover letter;

Email
Construction management software
Mobile apps
Building information modeling
Virtual reality
Augmented reality
Evaluating software
Drones

Developmental skills

Here is a list of development skills for a contractor to include on a resume and cover letter;

Growth mindset
Vocational training
Apprenticeship engagement
Independence
Self-motivation
Time management

Technical building skills

Here is a list of technical building skills for contractor resume and cover letter;

Carpentry
Stonework
Tiling
Carpeting
Framing
Drywall installation
Drywall texturing
Painting
Demolition
Roofing
Power tool use
Concrete
Asphalt
Repairs
Surveying
Metalwork
Window/door installation
Trimming
Heavy equipment operation
Minor equipment repair
CDL driving
Welding
Plumbing
Electrical wiring

Additional list of contractor skills

General Construction
Heavy Equipment
Building Materials
Construction Documents
Residential Properties
Window Installation
Real Estate
General Maintenance
Property Management
Construction Activities
Exterior Painting
Renovation Projects
Tenant Improvements
Building Codes
Project Management
Cost Estimates
Manual Labor
Room Additions
Residential Homes
Payroll
HVAC
Masonry
Door Frames
Sheetrock
Construction Sites
General Carpentry

Tips for describing contractor skills

Include appropriate contractor skills in the resume

Examine your employment record for any training or knowledge in particular jobs and occupations. Maybe you are seeking employment for which you have no past experience, knowledge with qualifications in a similar field can be advantageous to the organization.

Emphasize the skills in a cover letter

Unless you are pursuing a managerial role, most contractor jobs don't need a cover letter. In that situation, make sure to acknowledge a team or two that you skillfully coordinated to complete a construction project.

During the job interview apply skill words

If you understand how to do something related to the job requirements, let them know. If you have advanced training or licensure or a permit this is a plus, mention it in your resume and during the job interview.