How to Be Construction Clerk - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Feb 22, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increasing demand for construction services has created a need for an efficient Construction Clerk to manage the paperwork and scheduling of projects. This has led to an increase in hiring of these professionals, who are responsible for tracking the progress of construction projects, organizing the paperwork associated with them, and maintaining records of the materials used. By doing this, Construction Clerks ensure that projects are completed on schedule and within budget, as well as providing support to the other members of the construction team. This has resulted in a smoother process for the entire construction team and an overall increase in job satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Before you can become a construction clerk, you must have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) equivalent.
Obtain On-the-Job Training. Although it's not required, on-the-job training can help you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become a successful construction clerk. Most employers will provide training to new hires.
Acquire Knowledge of Construction Accounting Software. Most construction clerks are expected to have a solid understanding of some type of accounting software, such as QuickBooks or Sage 50.
Develop a Working Knowledge of Construction Terminology. The construction industry has its own set of terms and phrases. Its important to familiarize yourself with them so you can communicate effectively with contractors and other staff members.
Pursue a Bachelors Degree in Accounting. A bachelor's degree in accounting can be beneficial for aspiring construction clerks. With a degree, you may be able to find higher-level positions with more responsibility.
Obtain Certification. Becoming certified in accounting can also help you stand out from other applicants. There are certifications available from various organizations, such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

Construction clerks are an essential part of the construction process, as they help ensure a project is completed on time and within budget. An ideal construction clerk is organized and efficient, able to handle multiple tasks at once. To become an efficient construction clerk, it is important to stay organized and keep track of all documents related to a project.

This includes invoices, purchase orders, and contracts. it is important to be able to communicate effectively with all contractors and suppliers involved in the construction process. Finally, having a strong understanding of construction regulations and safety protocols is critical to success as a construction clerk.

By following these steps, an individual can become an ideal and efficient construction clerk, helping projects move along smoothly and efficiently.

You may want to check Construction Quality Control Manager, Construction Engineer, and Construction Superintendent Administrator for alternative.

Job Description

Receive, unpack and check goods against purchase orders or invoices.
Store goods in the appropriate locations in the warehouse.
Ensure accuracy of incoming and outgoing documents.
Prepare and complete orders for delivery or pick-up according to schedule.
Receive payments and record receipts.
Reconcile discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices.
Update and maintain records of inventory and stock levels.
Prepare regular inventory reports.
Maintain a safe and clean work environment by keeping shelves, pallet area, and workstations neat.
Follow quality service standards and comply with procedures, rules, and regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent organizational skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, such as Word and Excel
Knowledge of basic accounting principles
Ability to read, understand and follow written instructions
Ability to accurately enter data into computer systems
Attention to detail
Ability to remain organized and efficient
Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
Ability to prioritize workloads and multitask
Knowledge of filing systems, both paper and electronic

Organizational skills are one of the most important skills for a Construction Clerk to have. Good organizational skills help ensure that work is completed in an orderly and efficient manner. This includes organizing documents, managing tasks, and keeping track of deadlines.

having a good understanding of the construction process is essential for a Construction Clerk as they are often responsible for managing the paperwork associated with building projects. Without proper organization, important tasks and documents can be overlooked or forgotten, leading to costly delays and setbacks in the construction process. Furthermore, strong communication skills are necessary for a Construction Clerk to be successful, as they must be able to effectively communicate with contractors, architects, and other stakeholders throughout the duration of the project.

By having these key skills, a Construction Clerk can help ensure the successful completion of any construction project.

Construction Coordinator, Construction Project Manager, and Construction Inspector are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the construction industry?
What do you know about the duties of a Construction Clerk?
What have you done to stay up to date with industry changes and regulations?
What challenges have you faced in your previous roles?
How do you handle multiple tasks and deadlines?
Describe a time when you solved a problem related to construction documentation.
How do you ensure accuracy when completing paperwork?
How do you maintain good relationships with contractors, engineers and other stakeholders?
How do you remain organized when managing multiple projects?
What steps do you take to ensure that all construction documents are thoroughly reviewed and approved?

Common Tools in Industry

Scanner. A device used to capture digital images from paper documents. (Eg: Fujitsu ScanSnap)
Filing Cabinet. A storage system for organizing and storing records. (Eg: Steelcase 4-Drawer Lateral File Cabinet)
Computer. An electronic device used to store and process data. (Eg: Dell XPS 13 laptop)
Printer. A device that produces paper copies of documents. (Eg: HP LaserJet Pro M402n)
Calculator. A device used to perform basic mathematical calculations. (Eg: Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus)
Label Maker. A machine used to create labels and tags. (Eg: Brother P-touch PT-D210 Label Maker)
Stapler. A device used to fasten papers together. (Eg: Swingline Optima 25 Electric Stapler)
Shredder. A machine used to destroy sensitive documents. (Eg: Fellowes Powershred 99Ci Cross-Cut Shredder)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Architects
Association of General Contractors
The National Association of Home Builders
American Society of Civil Engineers
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
International Code Council
Construction Financial Management Association
American Welding Society
American Subcontractors Association
American Council of Engineering Companies

We also have Construction Sales Representative, Construction Procurement Specialist, and Construction Project Planner jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Accounts Payable. The process of paying for goods and services received from suppliers.
Invoice. A document showing the details of a purchase and the amount owed for it.
Receipts. A document that records a payment made or received by an individual or business.
Purchase Orders. A document issued by a buyer to a seller, indicating types, quantities, and agreed prices for goods or services the seller will provide to the buyer.
Shipping Documents. Documents that accompany goods while they are being shipped, such as a bill of lading and packing list.
Warehouse Management. The process of managing the movement, storage and control of goods in a warehouse.
Inventory Control. The process of tracking and managing the supply of goods in a business or organization.
Stock Taking. The physical counting of goods or materials in stock in order to ensure accuracy in inventory records.
Data Entry. The act of entering information into computer systems or databases.
Filing. The process of organizing documents in an orderly way for easy retrieval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Construction Clerk?

A Construction Clerk is a professional responsible for managing paperwork and documents related to the construction of buildings and other structures.

What duties does a Construction Clerk typically perform?

Typical duties of a Construction Clerk include tracking project costs and expenditures, preparing work orders, invoices, and contracts, and coordinating with contractors, architects, and engineers.

What qualifications are necessary to become a Construction Clerk?

To become a Construction Clerk, it is generally necessary to have at least a high school diploma or GED, along with experience in the construction field. In some cases, specialized training in related disciplines may be required.