Employment
The Construction Industry is structured differently for work opportunities. For example, some general contractors will work with a union to hire their workers. So openings on a very large project which require many construction workers are often (but not always) filled via a contract with a union, which in turn uses its members to fill the need. If a company had to recruit, interview and hire 200 carpenters, it would be too difficult!
Construction companies hire through various methods:
Industry Resources: There are many special construction websites list employment or job opportunities. See resources. Individual businesses may also list available openings at their own company website.
Job Sites: Check at a construction site. Sometimes companies will have a sign encouraging those interested in working on their project to apply onsite.
Word of mouth: Companies will often hire workers they’ve previously worked with from past projects. Check with people you’ve worked with. Also, many individuals go into construction by chance: a friend or a neighbor in construction hear of an opening in a company. Don’t underestimate the power of learning about openings via word of mouth.
Apprenticeship Programs
Union workers have access to their union halls where job openings are posted. Some Union programs will have someone who coordinates where an apprentice may go for their next job.
Newspaper Ad
Some companies will still use the traditional method of advertising for openings in the local newspaper. Check under the “skilled trades” or “construction” sections of the want ads. Seek out specialized newspapers with a construction emphasis like the Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce.