Job Descriptions/ General Contractor

General Contractor Job Description: Duties, Skills, Education & Salary

General Contractors manage construction projects from start to finish. They coordinate labor, materials, timelines, and subcontractors to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality project execution. Whether it's a residential build, commercial renovation, or public infrastructure job, general contractors are responsible for bringing the blueprint to life.

Use this expert-written general contractor job description template to find the right professionals for your next building project. It covers duties, required skills, salary ranges, and more.

Jun 5, 2025

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General Contractor Job Description Template

Job Title: General Contractor

Location: [Insert Location]

Job Type: [Full-time/Contract]

Reports To: Project Owner / Developer / Construction Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and experienced General Contractor to manage construction projects and ensure they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget. This role involves overseeing all aspects of the build from planning and permitting to materials procurement and crew supervision.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and well-versed in construction best practices and building codes.

General Contractor Responsibilities and Duties

  • Plan and manage construction projects from start to finish
  • Coordinate subcontractors, laborers, and site teams
  • Obtain necessary permits and ensure code compliance
  • Oversee budgeting, bidding, and procurement of materials
  • Maintain project schedules and timelines
  • Conduct regular site inspections and resolve on-site issues
  • Ensure safety protocols are followed at all times
  • Communicate project progress to clients and stakeholders
  • Approve and inspect completed work for quality assurance

General Contractor Qualifications and Skills

  • In-depth knowledge of construction methods, tools, and safety standards
  • Strong leadership and project management skills
  • Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
  • Problem-solving mindset and attention to detail
  • Proficiency in project management software and tools (e.g., Procore, Buildertrend)
  • Ability to read blueprints and technical documents
  • Understanding of legal regulations and building codes

Education and Experience Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management is a plus)
  • Valid general contractor’s license (as required by state or local laws)
  • 5+ years of experience in construction, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or contractor role
  • OSHA certification or equivalent safety training preferred

Interested candidates should send a resume and portfolio of past projects to [email protected] or call +1 999999999 for more information.

General Contractor Average Salary

In the United States, General Contractors earn an average salary of $89,300 per year, with a typical range between $77,111 and $105,546. Earnings vary based on location, experience, and project scale.

Hire the Right General Contractor Today

A skilled general contractor keeps your construction project on track, on time, and on budget. Use this job description to find an experienced professional who can lead your project to completion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a general contractor do?

A general contractor oversees the construction project, manages subcontractors, ensures compliance with safety and building codes, and ensures the work is done on time and within budget.

2. What skills are important for a general contractor?

Project management, leadership, budgeting, communication, construction knowledge, and safety compliance.

3. What qualifications are required for general contractors?

Typically a high school diploma, state licensure, and several years of construction experience. Some roles may require a degree in construction management.

4. How do I hire a reliable general contractor?

Look for licensed contractors with strong portfolios, client references, and proven experience in managing similar projects. Tools like Skima AI can help match you with top contractors faster.