What Does a General Contractor Do?
Explore what a general contractor does, from managing teams to securing permits. Learn roles, tools, salaries, and how to start a GC career in 2025.
A Detailed Look at Responsibilities, Skills, and Career Growth
Understanding the Role of a General Contractor
When you hear the term general contractor, you might think of someone in a hard hat shouting orders on a job site. But the reality is far more complex—and essential. A general contractor (GC) is the person or company responsible for overseeing an entire construction project, from planning and coordination to execution and delivery.
Whether it’s a small residential renovation or a multi-million-dollar commercial build, general contractors play a pivotal role in bringing architectural vision to life while managing timelines, budgets, safety, and people.
Key Responsibilities of a General Contractor
1. Project Planning and Scheduling
One of the core tasks of a general contractor is developing a realistic and efficient project plan. This includes:
- Creating timelines
- Budget estimation and cost control
- Setting deadlines for subcontractors
- Coordinating deliveries of materials and equipment
They must ensure that every moving part fits together without delay or conflict, minimizing downtime and keeping the project within scope.
2. Hiring and Supervising Subcontractors
General contractors are responsible for selecting, hiring, and supervising skilled tradespeople including:
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Masons
- HVAC technicians
- Painters
- Roofers
Gaining trust and respect from subcontractors requires experience, clear communication, and problem-solving abilities.
3. Managing Budgets and Costs
A big part of a GC’s job is managing the financial side of a project. This involves:
- Submitting bids and cost proposals
- Preventing cost overruns
- Approving subcontractor invoices
- Identifying value engineering opportunities (e.g. cost-saving alternatives)
4. Ensuring Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Each construction site must adhere to local building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations.
General contractors are accountable for:
- Securing permits and licenses
- Scheduling inspections
- Meeting environmental standards
- Maintaining workplace safety (OSHA in the U.S., Safe Work in Australia, etc.)
5. Procurement of Materials
The GC manages relationships with suppliers to ensure timely procurement of:
- Concrete, steel, lumber
- Fixtures and finishes
- Tools and equipment
- Safety gear
Any delivery delay can halt a project, making procurement management critical.
6. On-Site Supervision
Even with strong planning, daily issues arise. General contractors are often physically present on-site to:
- Monitor progress
- Solve unexpected challenges
- Adjust timelines
- Ensure worker safety and morale
This hands-on involvement helps avoid miscommunication and promotes real-time problem-solving.
7. Communication with Clients and Stakeholders
Gaining and maintaining client trust is central to the general contractor’s role.
They regularly:
- Update clients on milestones
- Coordinate with architects and engineers
- Manage investor or stakeholder expectations
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills are essential.
Required Skills to Be a Successful General Contractor
- Project Management: Gantt charts, PERT diagrams, or software like Primavera and MS Project are commonly used.
- Negotiation: For contracts, materials, and conflict resolution.
- Budgeting: Understanding cost estimation and controlling expenses.
- Construction Knowledge: Familiarity with codes, techniques, and structural systems.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to handle unexpected weather, labor shortages, or delays.
- Leadership: Leading diverse teams of workers and specialists.
How to Become a General Contractor
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | High school diploma minimum; construction management degree helpful |
| Work Experience | 3–5 years in trades or as site supervisor |
| License & Certification | Varies by country/state (e.g., CSLB in California, QBCC in Queensland, NHBRC in SA) |
| Insurance & Bonding | Required for most commercial projects |
| Business Registration | Set up a legal business entity (LLC, sole prop, etc.) |
General Contractor vs. Construction Manager
| Aspect | General Contractor | Construction Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Employer | Hired directly by client or developer | Often hired by developer as employee or consultant |
| Role | Hands-on site and team management | Project planning, budgeting, and oversight |
| Project Involvement | Usually joins after design phase | Involved from design through completion |
| Compensation | Typically per-project basis | Often salaried or retainer-based |
Tools General Contractors Use
Modern GCs leverage digital tools to improve efficiency:
- Project Management Software: Procore, Buildertrend, CoConstruct
- Time Tracking Apps: TSheets, ClockShark
- Budgeting Tools: Sage 300, QuickBooks Contractor Edition
- Communication: Slack, Microsoft Teams
- Safety Compliance: iAuditor, SafetyCulture
Earning Potential of General Contractors
| Region | Avg Annual Income (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $75,000 – $125,000 | Depends on project size & licensing |
| Canada | $70,000 – $110,000 | Commercial GC roles pay more |
| UK / Europe | $60,000 – $100,000 | Highly variable based on region & demand |
| Australia | $80,000 – $130,000 | Strong union presence and infrastructure boom |
| China | $40,000 – $80,000 | Rapid urbanization driving up demand |
| Africa | $25,000 – $60,000 | Public-private partnerships growing demand |
Challenges General Contractors Face
- Labor Shortages: Skilled workers are in short supply worldwide
- Regulation Complexity: Constant changes in zoning and environmental codes
- Cost Fluctuations: Material prices can spike unexpectedly
- Client Expectations: Tight deadlines, changing requirements
- Weather Delays: Particularly relevant in outdoor and seasonal builds
Global Demand and Opportunities in 2025
| Region | Trends & Opportunities |
|---|---|
| USA | Government infrastructure programs expanding |
| Europe | Green building and urban redevelopment |
| Australia | Demand in metro rail, high-rise, and sustainable builds |
| China | Smart cities and commercial complexes |
| Africa | Housing, hospitals, and education facilities in urban areas |
| Southeast Asia | Tourism infrastructure and high-rise residential |
Is Becoming a General Contractor Right for You?
Consider this career path if you:
- Enjoy coordinating teams and solving complex problems
- Have a passion for construction and architecture
- Are comfortable managing people, time, and risk
- Want to build a reputation in a high-responsibility role
- Are ready to commit to certifications and ongoing learning
It’s not just about building structures—it’s about building trust, safety, and outcomes.
The Bottom Line
So, what does a general contractor do? They are the backbone of every successful construction project—leading with vision, managing with precision, and delivering with accountability. From sourcing materials to final inspections, general contractors are responsible for orchestrating every detail of a build. With strong demand across the globe, this career path offers not only financial reward but long-term professional growth for those who are up for the challenge.
