Construction craft workers work mostly on construction sites; their tasks include site preparation and cleanup, setting up and removing access equipment, and working on concrete, masonry, steel, wood and pre-cast erecting projects. They handle materials and equipment and perform demolition, excavation and compaction activities. They may also perform site safety and security checks.
Construction craft workers work on a wide variety of structures such as residential, and industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) sites, as well as hydroelectric dams, roadways, bridges, tunnels, mines and railways. In some jurisdictions, they may also work on utility, landscape and pipeline projects. Construction craft workers may work for private companies as well as municipal, provincial and federal governments.
With experience, construction craft workers who complete additional training may specialize in different areas of construction. This can include operating off-road vehicles, drilling, blasting, scaling, sandblasting, high-pressure washing, diving, tunnelling and performing emergency rescue. Another common responsibility is the management of pedestrian and vehicular traffic in situations involving potential hazards and public trust.
Construction craft workers work primarily outdoors, in all weather conditions. They are often required to work at heights, over water and in confined spaces and excavations. Their job settings may be in densely-populated urban settings or at remote locations. They often work overtime during peak construction periods.
Key attributes for workers in this trade are mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity and an ability to do hard physical work. They must also be able to work both as team members, and sometimes, to interact directly with the public where considerations such as safety and legal liability are at issue. Organizational, leadership, problem solving and document interpretation skills are assets for anyone wanting to progress in this trade.
This analysis acknowledges similarities with many construction trades. With experience construction craft workers may have opportunities to advance.
For more information, see Red Seal Trades – Construction Craft Worker
