How to make a career change into Construction in 2026

Why Construction?

Before we dive into the how - let's talk about the why. Construction offers several unique advantages:

High demand

The construction industry is experiencing a labor shortage at every level - from field workers to senior leadership. Companies are actively looking for talented professionals and they're increasingly open to hiring people from outside the industry.

Competitive salaries

Construction professionals are well-compensated. Project Managers, Superintendents, Estimators and other roles often earn six-figure salaries with strong benefits packages.

Tangible impact

There's something deeply satisfying about building things that last. Whether it's a hospital, a school, a data center, or a residential development - construction professionals see the direct results of their work.

Career growth

Construction offers clear career paths and opportunities for advancement. Start as a Project Coordinator, move to Assistant Project Manager, then Project Manager, and eventually Director or VP roles.

Job security

People will always need buildings, infrastructure and homes. Construction is a stable industry with long-term growth prospects.

Transferable Skills from Other Industries

The good news? Many skills from other industries translate directly into construction.

Project Management

If you've managed projects in tech, healthcare, finance or any other industry - you already have skills that construction companies value:

• Planning and scheduling
• Budget management
• Stakeholder communication
• Risk management
• Team coordination

Construction is project-based work. If you can manage projects, you can learn construction.

Logistics and Supply Chain

Experience in logistics, supply chain management or operations translates well into construction roles like procurement, scheduling or project coordination. Construction is all about getting things to the right place at the right time.

Finance and Accounting

Financial skills are incredibly valuable in construction. Estimators, project accountants and project managers all need to understand budgets, cost analysis, and financial reporting.

Engineering

Engineers from other industries (mechanical, electrical, civil, industrial) can transition into construction management, MEP coordination, or specialized project roles.

Sales and Business Development

If you've worked in B2B sales, you can transition into construction sales, estimating, or business development roles with general contractors, subcontractors, or suppliers.

Entry Points into Construction

You don't need to start on a job site swinging a hammer. There are several professional entry points for career changers:

Project Coordinator

Project Coordinators support Project Managers with scheduling, documentation, procurement and communication. This is a common entry point for people without construction experience but with strong organizational and administrative skills.

Typical salary: $50K-$70K

Assistant Project Manager (APM)

APMs work under Project Managers to learn the ropes while contributing to project planning, budgeting, and coordination. This role is ideal for people with project management experience from other industries.

Typical salary: $60K-$85K

Estimating Assistant

If you have finance, accounting, or analytical skills, estimating can be a great entry point. You'll learn to quantify materials, labor, and costs while working under experienced estimators.

Typical salary: $55K-$75K

Safety Coordinator

If you have safety or compliance experience from another industry, transitioning into construction safety is very doable. OSHA certifications help, and safety is a critical role on every project.

Typical salary: $55K-$75K

Certifications That Help You Break In

Certifications show commitment, build credibility, and give you foundational knowledge that construction companies value.

OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety

This is the most common safety certification in construction. It covers hazard recognition, safety regulations, and best practices. Many companies require or strongly prefer candidates with OSHA 30.

Cost: ~$150-$300
Time: 30 hours (online or in-person)

LEED Green Associate

If you're interested in sustainable construction, LEED credentials demonstrate knowledge of green building practices. It's valuable for project management, design, and sustainability roles.

Cost: ~$250 (exam)
Time: Self-study + exam

Project Management Professional (PMP)

PMP is a globally recognized project management certification. While not construction-specific, it's highly respected and demonstrates your project management expertise.

Cost: ~$400-$550 (exam)
Time: Requires documented project management experience + exam

Construction Management Fundamentals Courses

Many universities and online platforms (Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, AGC, NAHB) offer construction management courses that cover basics like scheduling, estimating, contracts, and construction methods.

Cost: Varies
Time: A few weeks to a few months

Procore, Bluebeam, or other software certifications

Familiarity with industry-standard software is a huge plus. Free or low-cost certifications in tools like Procore, Bluebeam Revu, or AutoCAD show you're tech-savvy and ready to contribute.

Networking Strategies for Outsiders

Breaking into a new industry requires building relationships with people who are already in it.

Attend industry events

• Local AGC (Associated General Contractors) chapter meetings
• ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors) events
• NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) meetups
• Construction trade shows and conferences

These events are full of industry professionals who are usually happy to talk to newcomers.

Join LinkedIn groups

Search for construction-related LinkedIn groups and participate in discussions. Engage thoughtfully, ask questions, and make connections.

Informational Interviews

Reach out to people working in construction and ask for 20-30 minutes to learn about their career path. Most people are happy to share their experience and offer advice.

Example message: "Hi [Name], I'm exploring a career transition into construction and came across your profile. I'd love to learn about your experience and any advice you might have for someone making the jump. Would you be open to a quick call or coffee?"

Connect with Recruiters

Specialized construction recruiters understand career transitions and can connect you with companies open to hiring from outside the industry... and that's where We Search People come in.

Working with recruiters who understand career transitions

Not all recruiters are created equal. If you're making a career change, you want to work with someone who:

• Specializes in construction (not a generalist)
• Understands transferable skills and can advocate for you with clients
• Has relationships with companies open to non-traditional candidates
• Provides coaching and support throughout the transition

At We Search People, we work with construction professionals at all levels, including career changers. We understand that great talent comes from diverse backgrounds, and we help companies see the value in hiring smart, motivated people ready to learn.

Get in touch: info@wesearchpeople.com

Realistic salary and growth expectations

Entry-Level 

If you're starting in a coordinator or assistant role, expect salaries in the $50K-$80K range depending on location and experience.

Mid-Level (3-7 years)

With a few years of construction experience, salaries jump significantly. Project Managers, Estimators, and Superintendents typically earn $80K-$120K+.

Senior-Level (7+ years)

Senior Project Managers, Directors, and VPs earn $120K-$200K+ with bonuses and benefits.

Growth

Construction offers clear career progression. Many people who start as coordinators or APMs move into Project Manager roles within 3-5 years and senior leadership within 10 years.

Steps to Make the Transition

1. Research and learn

• Read industry publications (Engineering News-Record, Construction Dive, Builder Magazine)
• Take online courses in construction fundamentals
• Learn construction terminology and processes

2. Get certified

• Earn OSHA 30 at a minimum
• Consider PMP, LEED, or construction management courses

3. Update your resume

• Highlight transferable skills (project management, budgeting, coordination)
• Emphasize any construction-adjacent experience (working with contractors, managing facilities, etc.)
• List relevant certifications

4. Network

• Attend industry events
• Connect with construction professionals on LinkedIn
• Reach out for informational interviews

5. Target Entry-Level roles

• Apply for Project Coordinator, APM, or Estimating Assistant positions
• Be open to starting at a lower salary to gain experience
• Look for companies with strong training programs

6. Work with a Recruiter

• Partner with recruiters who understand career transitions and can advocate for you

7. Be Patient and Persistent

Career changes take time. You might not land your dream role immediately, but starting in an entry-level position gets your foot in the door.

Need help making the transition? We'd love to talk.

Contact us: info@wesearchpeople.com