General contractor example
A property owner or real estate developer develops a program of their needs and select a site (often with an architect). The architect assembles a design team of consulting engineers and other experts to design the building and specify the building systems. Today contractors frequently participate on the design team by providing pre-design services such as providing estimations of the budget and scheduling requirements to improve the economy of the project. In other cases the general contractor is hired at the close of the design phase. The owner, architect, and general contractor work closely together to meet deadlines and budget. The general contractor works with subcontractors to ensure quality standards.
Last Updated on Thursday, 10 May 2012 03:09
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Licensing qualifications
There are no set educational qualifications to become a general contractor, though most employers prefer a bachelor's degree. Some general contractors obtain bachelor's degrees in construction science, building science, surveying, construction safety, or other disciplines.
General contractors often start out as construction workers. While gaining work experience, they learn about different aspects of construction, including masonry, carpentry, framing, and plumbing. Aspiring general contractors communicate with subcontractors and may learn the management skills they need to run their own company.
General Contractor Job Description
General contractors, or construction managers, coordinate construction for an entire building or structure, while providing oversight of all work performed at the site. They hire the necessary subcontractors including electricians, plumbers and other needed specialists. They bid on projects and pay for subcontractors, materials and machinery.