How to Become a Mechanical Contractor
Mechanical contractors are a key component of construction projects across the world. Their responsibilities include overseeing and supervising other contractors, scheduling subcontractors, and ensuring that mechanical systems are installed correctly and within budget. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, food processing, power, and wastewater treatment.
How to Become a Mechanical Contractor
The first step to becoming a mechanical contractor is getting the right education and training. It’s recommended that candidates earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, but an associate’s or master’s degree in a similar field can also be helpful. Many mechanical contractors also complete apprenticeship programs, which offer on-the-job training and allow a person to gain experience in the field without having to spend years in school.
After completing their degree program, they can pursue a license in their specialty. In most states, a contractor’s license requires a written and practical exam that proves they have the skills to perform their job duties.
Job Outlook and Salary for Mechanical Contractors
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of mechanical contractors is expected to grow by 4% between now and 2029. This growth is on pace with the general job market’s expectations and will be driven by the increasing need for new construction in industrial, residential, and commercial buildings.
A mechanical contractor’s responsibilities vary depending on the type of project, but they typically supervise all of the mechanical contractors working on the job site. They often use computerized construction management software like Procore to help them stay on schedule and within budget during each phase of a project.
What Is a Mechanical Contract?
A mechanic’s core job is to design and install the equipment that keeps our daily lives running smoothly. However, a mechanical contractor can do much more than just build or repair systems, they can also help a company redesign existing equipment to make it better fit their needs and to keep it operating as effectively as possible.
Whether they’re working on an airplane or an industrial building, a mechanical contractor can take an existing system and improve it to make it run more efficiently and cost-effectively. This can save the company money, while making their employees more comfortable in a new facility or keeping them safe in an old one.
The most important aspect of a mechanical contractor’s job is problem-solving, identifying faults and fixing them. They must be able to see the bigger picture of how a system will work and what changes need to be made to make it more effective and efficient.
These professionals are often required to oversee other trades during a project, so it’s vital that they have strong people skills and the ability to communicate effectively with their team members. They also need to be familiar with the specialized mechanical equipment they will be installing or repairing.
There are several different types of mechanical contractors, but the main ones are HVAC and heating and cooling technicians. These individuals are responsible for the installation and maintenance of air conditioning and heating systems in residential and commercial buildings. They are the go-to professionals when you need a new heating or air conditioning system or have a problem with your current system.