The world is constantly growing and changing, which means contractors are always in demand. If you have considered a career in contracting, you may wonder what you will need to accomplish that goal. Luckily, while becoming a contractor has many qualifications, it is a realistic and rewarding career. If you would like to learn more, keep reading.
Degree
In California, no education requirements are necessary for obtaining a contractor license, but in regards to degrees, the degree you need largely depends on your future goals. For example, if you plan on starting your own contracting business, you may only need a high school diploma. However, if you plan on applying for positions in big construction and construction management companies, you will have competition.
Even if you have as much training or experience as another applicant, the company may be more inclined to choose the other applicant if they have a bachelor's or master's degree because this means they may have additional skills and experience that may help. If you do decide to pursue a degree, make sure to choose fields that will help, such as site planning, contract administration, or building codes.
License and Certification
Not just anyone can be a contractor because you do need the right licensing or certification. In California, the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB) requires any business or person involved in constructing buildings, highways, or excavation to have a proper license.
To obtain your contractor license, you will need to take and pass an examination. Make sure you are fully prepared to take the test because it comes with a
$330 fee. Besides the exam to obtain your contractor license, you also need to pass a Law and Business exam, a secondary trade-related exam, and an asbestos exam.
Experience
In some cases, the education you receive for contracting can also be used as experience, but in most cases, actual practical experience is the leading factor. In fact, before you can even take the exam to obtain your contractor's license, you need four years in the field for which you are applying.
The type of experience also plays a major role. In California, the four years of experience must be at the journey level or as a foreman, contractor, or an owner-builder. Naturally, you will need to have a qualified employer, contractor, foreman, or union representative verify this experience. If you do use your education as experience, know that you will still need at least one year of practical experience to qualify for the exam.
Skills
Besides experience and licensing, many skills can help give you an advantage when applying for contracting positions or bidding for jobs. First, you need to be strong enough to perform the work. Nearly
50 percent
of construction jobs require heavy lifting. If you are simply incapable of pulling your weight, you will likely not get the job.
Good hand-eye coordination is another big plus, especially when using big construction equipment like cranes.
Having good communication and teamwork skills will also help in the construction field. Most construction jobs require a lot of people doing a lot of dangerous work at once. Without good communication and teamwork, disasters can happen. Other skills that can help you be a great contractor include customer service, memory, organization, and decision-making skills.
If you want to become a contractor, you will need the right experience, licensing, and education to help you pass the contractor exam. Luckily, you are not alone. If you would like to learn more, or if you need help to get you ready to pass the test, contact us at
Golden State Contractors School.
