How to Be Contractor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 3, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The growing demand for contractors has increased in recent years as businesses look to hire skilled professionals to complete specific tasks on a project basis. This has caused an influx of talented professionals to enter the contracting market, leading to more competition among those seeking work. As a result, the quality of work produced by contractors has improved dramatically, allowing businesses to save money through efficient project completion and higher quality results. Additionally, contractors are now better equipped to meet business needs in a timely manner, making them an invaluable asset to any organization.

Steps How to Become

Determine the type of work you want to do as a contractor. Consider what type of industry you have experience in, what skills and education you have, and what type of projects you would like to take on.
Research licensing requirements for contractors in your state or municipality. Each state and municipality has different laws and regulations for contractors.
Obtain the necessary licensing and permits to become a contractor in your area. Depending on the type of work you do, you may need a general contractors license, an electrical license, or a plumbing license.
Develop a business plan for your contracting business. Consider the services that you will offer, how you will market your business, and how much you will charge for your services.
Find a reputable vendor who can provide you with the necessary supplies and materials that you need to complete your work.
Network with other contractors in your area to find potential jobs and referrals. Develop relationships with subcontractors who can provide additional services to your clients, such as carpentry or painting.
Create a website for your contracting business. Include information about your services, price list, and contact information.
Advertise your services in local newspapers and online directories. You can also join professional organizations for contractors or attend networking events in your area.
Develop systems and procedures for managing your business and handling customer inquiries.
Hire employees or subcontractors as needed to help with larger projects. Make sure that all of your employees are properly trained and have the necessary licensing and permits to do the work that you need them to do.

The key to becoming a skilled and efficient contractor is to stay organized and plan ahead. Prioritizing tasks, delegating responsibility, and managing timelines are all essential to ensure successful completion of projects. Taking the time to review plans and specifications, set realistic goals, and develop well-defined timelines will help contractors avoid costly missteps and delays.

keeping up with industry trends, training employees, and investing in the necessary tools and equipment are all essential steps for contractors looking to achieve a high level of proficiency. By taking the time to plan ahead, contractors can save time and money, while also ensuring that their projects are completed to the highest standard.

You may want to check Database Manager, Heavy Equipment Auctioneer, and Benefit Auctioneer for alternative.

Job Description

Project Manager: Responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects from start to finish.
Estimator: Responsible for preparing detailed cost estimates for construction projects.
Construction Superintendent: Responsible for supervising the day-to-day activities of a construction project.
Field Engineer: Responsible for tasks related to quality control, safety, and project scheduling.
Safety Manager: Responsible for ensuring all safety protocols are followed during the course of a project.
Quality Control Manager: Responsible for inspecting materials and workmanship to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards.
Project Accountant: Responsible for tracking expenses and preparing financial reports related to the project.
Procurement Manager: Responsible for procuring materials and services needed for a project.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of project management principles
Ability to develop and maintain project schedules
Understanding of contract administration and negotiation processes
Familiarity with construction methods and materials
Financial management and budgeting skills
Proficiency in estimating costs and preparing bids
Experience in problem solving and conflict resolution
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work with a diverse range of stakeholders
Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite applications

Successful contractors possess a range of skills, but the most important one is the ability to effectively manage projects. A contractor must be able to plan, organize, and control the resources available in order to complete the job on time and within budget. This requires strong problem solving, decision making, and communication skills to ensure that all requirements are met.

contractors must have a working knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. Finally, contractors must have a good understanding of the needs of the customer, as well as the ability to provide quality workmanship and services. All of these skills are essential for any contractor to be successful.

Without them, projects can quickly become over budget and deliverables may be missed. In turn, this could lead to lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction.

Automobile Auctioneer, Online Auction Specialist, and Antiques Auctioneer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with general contracting?
What specific services do you offer?
Are you licensed and insured?
What safety protocols do you follow to ensure project safety?
What is your typical timeline for completing a project?
How do you handle changes in project scope or budget?
How do you handle customer complaints or disputes?
Do you have any references or testimonials from previous clients?
Do you have a portfolio or examples of your work?
What sets you apart from other contractors in the area?

Common Tools in Industry

Hammer. A tool used to drive nails into wood or other materials. (eg: Nailing two boards together)
Screwdriver. A tool used to turn screws. (eg: Securing a cabinet door to its frame)
Drill. A tool used to make holes in various materials. (eg: Drilling a hole through wall studs)
Wrench. A tool used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. (eg: Adjusting a bolt on a car engine)
Saw. A tool used to cut materials such as wood or metal. (eg: Cutting a board to the desired size)
Level. A tool used to check if two surfaces are even. (eg: Checking if a floor is level before installing tiles)
Pliers. A tool used to grip, twist or cut materials. (eg: Pulling out a nail from a piece of wood)
Tape Measure. A tool used to measure length. (eg: Measuring the length of a wall before hanging wallpaper)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Architects (AIA)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC)
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
American Institute of Constructors (AIC)
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBCJA)
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)

We also have Donor Relations Manager, Appraiser, and Charity Auctioneer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Contract. A legally binding agreement between two or more parties that sets out the rights and obligations of each party.
Performance Bond. A type of surety bond that guarantees that a contractor will fulfill their obligations under the terms of a contract.
Subcontractor. A person or company hired by a contractor to perform specific tasks as part of a larger project.
Surety Bond. A financial guarantee that a contractor will fulfill their obligations under the terms of a contract.
Scope of Work. A written document that outlines the scope of a project and defines the responsibilities of the contractor and other parties involved.
Change Order. A document that changes the scope of work or other details in a contract.
Indemnification. A legal concept that requires one party to defend and compensate another for losses incurred due to the former's actions or negligence.
Dispute Resolution. A process for resolving disputes between parties to a contract.
Warranty. A guarantee provided by a manufacturer or contractor that a product or service will meet certain standards.
Liability Insurance. Insurance that covers a contractor for any financial losses incurred as a result of their negligence or faulty workmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a sole proprietor and a contractor?

A sole proprietor is a self-employed individual who owns and operates their own business, whereas a contractor is an individual or company that provides services to other businesses or organizations on a contract basis.

What are the requirements to become a contractor?

Requirements vary by state and type of work, but typically contractors need to be licensed and insured, have a business plan, and submit proof of experience in the type of work they are offering.

What are some common contractual terms?

Common contractual terms include the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, liability, confidentiality and termination clauses.

What is the difference between an independent contractor and an employee?

An independent contractor is an individual who provides services to another person or company for a fee and is not considered an employee of that person or company, whereas an employee is hired by a company and is subject to the company's rules and regulations.

What taxes do contractors need to pay?

Contractors typically need to pay self-employment taxes, income taxes and other applicable taxes. They may also be required to collect and remit sales tax depending on the type of services they provide.

Web Resources

Contractor EDU | ICPI Courses | NCMA | Greendell Landscape greendelllandscape.com
Contractors | Design and Construction Management dcm.ucdavis.edu
Contractors | Planning, Design & Construction ae.ucr.edu