Written by Kevin Scholz, CHST, SMP
If you work in construction or plan to start a building project, you have likely heard the term general contractor. But what is a general contractor, and what do they actually do on a job site? Whether you want to hire one, become one, or simply understand how construction projects are managed, this guide breaks it all down.
You will learn what a general contractor is, the different types, average general contractor salary expectations, how to become licensed, and answers to common questions, especially those related to safety and trade work.
What Is a General Contractor?
A general contractor is the person or company responsible for overseeing and managing a construction project from start to finish. This contractor acts as the main point of contact between the property owner and all subcontractors, suppliers, and workers on the job site.
Think of general contractors as the project manager of a construction site. They coordinate schedules, manage budgets, secure permits, ensure code compliance, and make sure the project is completed safely and on time. Without a general contractor, construction projects can quickly become disorganized and unsafe.
What Does a General Contractor Do?
The answer includes a wide range of responsibilities. A general contractor handles both administrative and on-site tasks.
Key duties often include:
- Hiring and supervising subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, roofers, concrete crews, etc.)
- Creating and managing construction schedules
- Ordering materials and coordinating deliveries
- Ensuring compliance with local building codes and OSHA regulations
- Managing project budgets and contracts
- Conducting quality control inspections
From an Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) perspective, a contractor also plays a major role in maintaining job site safety. You rely on them to enforce safety programs, conduct toolbox talks, manage hazard communication, and ensure compliance with standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
In short, a general contractor ensures the project runs smoothly, legally, and safely.
Related Reading: 10 Construction Site Safety Rules
Different Types of General Contractors
Not all general contractors operate the same way. Depending on your project delivery method, you may work with different types of contractors. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right partner for your build.
Traditional
A traditional general contractor works under a design-bid-build model. In this setup, the owner hires an architect or engineer to design the project first. Once the plans are complete, contractors submit bids, and the owner selects one to build the project.
In this role, the contractor focuses strictly on construction. They follow the provided plans, hire subcontractors, and manage field operations. For example, if you are building a commercial warehouse, the traditional contractor ensures the electrical, plumbing, structural steel, and concrete teams stay on schedule and within budget.
This model works well when design details are fully developed before construction begins.
Design-Build Contractors
Design-build contractors handle both the design and construction phases under one contract. Instead of hiring separate architects and builders, you work with one team responsible for the entire project lifecycle.
This model can reduce miscommunication and streamline timelines. If you are building a manufacturing facility, for example, the design-build contractor coordinates engineers and construction crews simultaneously. This approach can lead to faster completion and better cost control.
From a safety standpoint, design-build contractors often integrate safety planning earlier in the project, which can significantly reduce risk during construction.
General Contractor Salary
If you are exploring career options, you may be curious about the average general contractor salary in the United States.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction managers, which includes many general contractors, earn a median annual salary of over $100,000 per year. However, earnings vary based on experience, state licensing requirements, and project size.
Entry-level contractors may earn closer to $60,000–$75,000 annually, while experienced contractors managing large commercial or industrial projects can earn significantly more. Some general contractors operate as business owners, meaning income depends on project volume and profitability rather than a fixed salary.
How To Become A General Contractor
The path to becoming a general contractor typically includes education, field experience, and licensing.
First, you will need construction experience. Many contractors start as carpenters, laborers, or project supervisors. Over time, they gain hands-on knowledge of building systems, scheduling, and subcontractor coordination.
Second, formal education can help. While not always required, degrees in construction management, civil engineering, or business management can strengthen your qualifications.
Finally, you must meet your state’s licensing requirements. Each state sets its own rules for becoming a licensed contractor.
How To Get a General Contractor License
Before you can legally operate as a contractor, you must obtain the proper license in your state. The process varies by location, but most states follow a similar structure. Understanding how to get a general contractor license ensures you stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.
General Contractor License Requirements:
- Experience Requirement: Most states require 2–4 years of verifiable construction experience.
- Examination Requirement: You must pass a state-approved contractor exam covering building codes, business law, and safety regulations.
- Insurance Requirement: Proof of general liability insurance and sometimes workers’ compensation coverage is required.
- Financial Documentation: Some states require proof of financial stability or bonding capacity.
- Application & Fees: You must submit a completed application and pay licensing fees.
- Background Check: Certain states require a criminal background check.
If you are wondering how much a general contractor license costs, it can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on exam fees, insurance premiums, and bonding requirements.
Always check your specific state contractor licensing board for updated regulations.
General Contractor FAQs
Before hiring or becoming a contractor, you likely have specific trade-related questions. Below are answers to some of the most common ones.
Can a general contractor do electrical work?
In most states, a general contractor cannot perform electrical work unless they also hold an electrical license. Electrical systems involve specialized training and safety risks. Contractors typically hire licensed electricians to complete this work.
Can a general contractor do roofing?
A general contractor may perform roofing if state regulations allow it and they hold the proper classification license. In many areas, roofing requires a specialty license. You should verify your state’s rules before proceeding.
Can a general contractor do concrete work?
Concrete work is often permitted under a general contractor license. However, large structural concrete projects may require additional certifications or specialty contractors, especially for commercial or industrial builds.
SMG for General Contractors
Whether you are managing residential builds or large-scale industrial facilities, safety remains your top priority. As a general contractor, you are responsible for the well-being of everyone on your job site.
Safety Management Group (SMG) supports contractors by providing construction safety management, OSHA compliance support, safety audits, and safety training. You can strengthen your safety culture through proactive hazard identification, regulatory compliance strategies, and workforce education.
When you partner with experienced safety professionals, you reduce incidents, improve productivity, and protect your reputation. If you are looking to elevate your safety program or need on-site construction safety support, SMG offers solutions designed specifically for general contractors.
A successful construction project depends on strong leadership, careful planning, and strict adherence to safety standards. Whether you want to hire a general contractor, become one, or improve your operations, understanding these fundamentals helps you make informed decisions and protect your workforce.