Overview

Construction specialists perform and manage the construction of buildings, bridges, foundations, utility systems, dams, and bunkers. They manage, construct, repair, and modify structural systems, and wooden, masonry, metal, and concrete buildings. They also oversee bridge building, rafting, and river crossing operations to coordinate the building of structures during combat. Construction specialists must have a working knowledge of carpentry and masonry. Military Training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for construction specialists consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction, including practice with carpentry and masonry tools. Training content varies depending on specialty, and may include: Basic construction methods and engineering principles Construction of wire obstacles Types and uses of construction joints and braces Use of hand and power tools How to mix and set concrete, mortar, and plaster Principles and procedures for the safe use of explosives Bridge design and construction Road maintenance and repair Helpful Attributes

Ability to communicate effectively Ability to understand and apply math concepts Ability to coordinate and prioritize the work and activities of others Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail Related Civilian Careers

Structural Iron and Steel Workers Brickmasons and Blockmasons Paving, Surfacing and Tamping Equipment Operators Compliance Managers Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians Construction Managers Shipping, Receiving and Inventory Clerks Civil Engineers Construction and Building Inspectors Electricians Maintenance and Repair Workers, General Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators Production, Planning and Expediting Clerks Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators General and Operations Managers Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers and Repairers Cost Estimators Architectural and Engineering Managers Industrial Production Managers