Summary
Role of the construction contractor
The project management:
When there is no architect to carry out the work, the building contractor is responsible for:
- design;
- to build ;
- or renovate a building.
He carries out studies for the project, then manages the technical and aesthetic aspects.
The action :
A building contractor is on all fronts. It is he who ensures the smooth running of all the phases of construction or of renovation. As a result, he must be present on construction sites with his teams.
The relationships :
The entrepreneur must also maintain relationships with many stakeholders:
- banks ;
- providers ;
- architects;
- administration…
It is at the heart of the discussions. Without forgetting that he must make himself available to customers, but also prospect, respond to requests for quotes…
Working conditions of the construction contractor
Undertake:
To become an entrepreneur, there are several possibilities, two of which are common:
- start your own business;
- take over an existing business.
In both cases, resources must be mobilized financial, human and material. It is a long and often difficult step, even if, for several years, the State has encouraged business creation by offering various aids.
Get involved:
The entrepreneur has his own office, to receive, study the projects… But he is especially very often on the move because of the appointments made with his customers, his suppliers…
In large companies, the entrepreneur no longer performs the same tasks as when he was a mason, electrician, painter or plumber. In small structures, on the contrary, he also gets his hands dirty.
How much does a construction contractor earn?
Depending on the size of the company, the geographical position, the economic situation and the projects, the BTP entrepreneur can generate a salary of between 1,500 and 4,000 € net per month on average.
What training to become a construction contractor?
Prioritize alternation:
Several CAPs (vocational aptitude certificates) and BEPs (vocational study certificates) train young adults in the requirements of the profession. They have the advantage of helping to quickly integrate the world of work. It is then theexperience which will allow them to progress to positions of responsibility.
To become an entrepreneur more quickly, it is preferable to pass diplomas at bac + 2 level, such as the BTS building, the BTS public works or the DUT civil engineering.
There are also professional university courses:
- civil engineering and construction bachelor’s degree;
- license pro public works;
- bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and infrastructure…
Finally, general or specialized engineering degrees are also sought after.
Qualifications needed to become a construction contractor
Demonstrate professionalism:
The building trades require a lot of seriousness, but also solid experience. Customers tend to trust contractors who are already “well-versed”. Reputation and skills are reference values.
Be organized :
The construction contractor must be everywhere:
- on site ;
- available to its customers;
- up to date in the various and numerous administrative tasks.
He must not be frightened by work, nor count his hours. But he has to showorganization and manage your schedule as well as possible, so as not to experience any oddities. surround yourself with a reliable team will make his job much easier.
Content updated on 05/28/2012
Our tips:
The building is a major service of the French economy, which is constantly recruiting and even looking for a young workforce to take over.
