Construction Specialists (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Construction specialists perform and manage the construction of buildings, bridges, foundations, utility systems, dams, and bunkers. They manage, construct, repair, and modify structural systems, and wooden, masonry, metal, and concrete buildings. They also oversee bridge building, rafting, and river crossing operations to coordinate the building of structures during combat. Construction specialists must have a working knowledge of carpentry and masonry.
Training Provided
Job training for construction specialists consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction, including practice with carpentry and masonry tools.
- Basic construction methods and engineering principles
- Construction of wire obstacles
- Types and uses of construction joints and braces
- Use of hand and power tools
- How to mix and set concrete, mortar, and plaster
- Principles and procedures for the safe use of explosives
- Bridge design and construction
- Road maintenance and repair
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2023, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($23,011/year basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($30,042/year basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy