Most workers learn on the job.

About 35 percent of carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers are self-employed.

Projected job growth varies by specialty; for example, tile and marble setters are expected to grow by 14 percent, while carpet installers is projected to decline by 1 percent.

Employment of carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers is less sensitive to fluctuations in construction activity than is employment of workers in other construction trades.

Job opportunities are expected to be good, especially for those with the most experience and skills.

Most workers learn on the job or through a combination of classroom and on-the-job training that can take 3 to 4 years.

Cement masons often have variable schedules and work overtime, with premium pay, because once concrete has been placed, the job must be completed quickly.

About 44 percent of inspectors worked for local governments, primarily municipal or county building departments.

Many home inspectors are self-employed.

Training requirements vary widely; some States require a license or certificate.

Opportunities should be best for those with construction-related work experience; training in engineering, architecture, construction technology, or related fields; or certification as a construction inspector.

Construction equipment operators are trained either through a formal apprenticeship program, through on-the-job training, through a paid training program, or a combination of these programs.

Job opportunities are expected to be good.

Hourly pay is relatively high, but operators of some types of equipment cannot work in inclement weather, so total annual earnings may be reduced.

Many construction laborer jobs require a variety of basic skills, but others require specialized training and experience.

Most construction laborers learn on the job, but formal apprenticeship programs provide the most thorough preparation.

Job opportunities vary by locality, but in many areas there will be competition, especially for jobs requiring limited skills.

Laborers who have specialized skills or who can relocate near new construction projects should have the best opportunities.

About 61 percent of construction managers are self-employed.

Jobseekers who combine construction work experience with a bachelor's degree in a construction-related field should enjoy the best prospects.

Certification, although not required, is increasingly important for construction managers.

Opportunities should be best for individuals with at least 2 years of postsecondary training in drafting.

Overall employment is projected to grow more slowly than average, but growth will vary by specialty.

Demand for various types of drafters depends on the needs of local industry.

Most workers learn their trade through informal training programs or through an apprenticeship.
Work is physically demanding.

Job prospects are expected to be good.

Workers may be idled when downturns in the economy slow construction activity.

Job opportunities should be good, especially for those with the broadest range of skills.

Most electricians acquire their skills by completing an apprenticeship program usually lasting 4 years.

About 79 percent of electricians work in the construction industry or are self-employed, but there also will be opportunities for electricians in other industries.

Electrical and electronic engineering technicians make up 33 percent of all engineering technicians.

Employment of engineering technicians is influenced by economic conditions similar to those which affect engineers; as a result, job outlook varies by specialty.

Opportunities will be best for individuals with an associate degree or other postsecondary training in engineering technology.

Most workers learn informally on the job as helpers, but some experts recommend completion of an apprenticeship program.

Employment prospects for painters should be excellent due to the large numbers of workers who leave the occupation for other jobs; paperhangers will face very limited opportunities.

About 45 percent of painters and paperhangers are self-employed.