You might be surprised, but there are construction and skilled labor jobs that are remote

When the world of work changed almost completely and almost overnight in the spring of 2000 due to Covid, it suddenly became apparent to many that some workers could fairly easily work remotely while others absolutely could not. But some generalized that too much by looking not just at occupational fields which were or were not well-suited to remote work but, instead, looking at industries.

Today, few are required or prefer to work remotely because of Covid, but many are still required or prefer to work remotely. And if you’re in construction or some kind of organization where there are a lot of skilled labor employees, you might think that there’s no chance that you can work remotely. And if you think that, then you’d be thinking incorrectly. Because there are many construction and skilled labor jobs which can be performed remotely. To find out more about these jobs, we asked eight hiring experts to share some examples with us:

Can you briefly describe three jobs that you think are great for remote workers who want to work in construction or skilled labor? Here is what 8 thought leaders have to say.

• Manage Projects from Afar
• Estimate Costs Digitally
• Write Industry Content Remotely
• Consult and Train Online
• Inspect Quality with Technology
• Blend Expertise and Remote Flexibility
• Coordinate BIM and Safety Virtually
• Steer Projects and Train from Anywhere

Manage Projects from Afar

Remote construction project managers coordinate construction projects from a distance. They utilize digital tools to manage schedules, budgets, and resources. Compliance with safety and quality standards is also part of their responsibilities. This role is ideal for remote workers with strong organizational skills.

BIM specialists manage digital models of construction projects. They facilitate collaboration among professionals and can work remotely to design building layouts. This position suits workers who are proficient in BIM software applications.

Remote construction estimators analyze project requirements and prepare accurate cost estimates. They collaborate with project teams and suppliers, using digital tools to gather data. People with strong analytical skills should apply for this role.

Garth McAlpin, Director & National Fulfilment Manager, Classic Architectural Group

Estimate Costs Digitally

In the realm of construction and skilled labor, transitioning to remote work might seem challenging, yet there are viable roles. 

One such position is a Construction Estimator. This role involves analyzing project plans and specifications to estimate the time, money, materials, and labor required to complete a project. Estimators often work remotely, utilizing digital tools to collaborate with clients and construction teams. 

Another notable job is a CAD Technician. CAD Technicians use computer-aided design software to create detailed plans for buildings and machinery. Much of this work can be done remotely, provided there’s effective communication with engineers and architects. 

Lastly, the role of a Project Manager in construction can adapt to remote work. While onsite visits are necessary, much of the project planning, team coordination, and client communication can occur from a home office, using project management software and virtual meeting tools.

Tony Mariotti, CEO, RubyHome

Write Industry Content Remotely

In the construction and skilled-labor industries, remote work opportunities have expanded beyond conventional roles, reflecting the sectors’ adaptability and innovative approaches.

We actively explore and embrace remote work possibilities within these fields. Key remote roles include (1) Construction Industry Content Writers, who generate insightful, technical content from afar; (2) Remote Sales Representatives for Construction Materials, leveraging digital tools to sell products globally; and (3) Virtual Construction Trainers or Educators, providing online training and education.

These positions highlight the industry’s commitment to flexibility, integrating remote work, and catering to diverse skills while fostering innovation and workplace flexibility.

Alexander Havkin, Regional Sales & Project Manager, Ecoline Windows

Consult and Train Online

For construction and skilled labor professionals seeking remote opportunities, I encourage exploring roles that capitalize on your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail. Consider positions such as:

Virtual Project Manager: Utilize your understanding of construction processes to oversee projects remotely, coordinating teams, monitoring progress, and ensuring quality control through digital tools and communication platforms.

Remote Design Consultant: Leverage your hands-on experience to provide valuable insights and guidance to architects and engineers during the design phase, helping to optimize plans for efficiency, safety, and constructability.

Online Technical Trainer: Share your expertise by developing and delivering online courses or workshops to train the next generation of skilled laborers, focusing on best practices, emerging technologies, and industry standards.

While specific remote roles in construction may be less common, I wholeheartedly believe that by strategically positioning your skills to solve pressing challenges and embracing digital tools, you can carve out a niche in the remote work landscape.

Lou Reverchuk, Co-founder and CEO, EchoGlobal

Inspect Quality with Technology

Exploring remote opportunities within the construction and skilled-labor sectors reveals unique positions that leverage technology to bridge the gap between traditional on-site work and the digital world. 

A standout role is the Remote Quality Assurance Inspector. Utilizing drones and remote surveillance technology, inspectors can monitor construction sites and ensure quality standards are met without being physically present. This innovative approach allows for comprehensive site inspections and timely feedback. 

Additionally, the rise of Prefabrication and Modular Construction Planners offers a unique niche for remote workers. These planners design and coordinate the production of prefabricated construction components in a factory setting, which are then assembled on-site. The planning and design aspects of this role can be performed remotely, using advanced software to collaborate with manufacturing teams. 

Lastly, the Construction Tech Support Engineer role is indispensable for providing remote technical support to construction sites. They troubleshoot software and hardware issues related to construction technology, ensuring seamless operations and minimizing downtime, all from a remote setup.

David Ciccarelli, CEO, Lake

Blend Expertise and Remote Flexibility

Three jobs that I believe are excellent for remote workers interested in construction or skilled labor include remote construction project manager, remote architectural designer, and remote construction estimator.

A remote construction project manager oversees construction projects from start to finish, using project management tools and communication platforms to ensure timely completion and adherence to budgetary constraints. A remote architectural designer creates detailed plans and drawings, collaborating with clients and engineers to bring architectural concepts to life, leveraging design software and virtual collaboration tools. A remote construction estimator analyzes blueprints and project specifications to accurately estimate costs for materials, labor, and equipment, utilizing estimating software and databases to generate precise cost projections and bids.

These roles offer a unique blend of technical expertise, creativity, and the flexibility of remote work, making them highly suitable for individuals seeking remote opportunities in the construction and skilled labor sectors.

Alex Taylor, Head of Marketing, CrownTV

Coordinate BIM and Safety Virtually

The construction and skilled-labor sectors offer unique opportunities for remote work that align with modern digital capabilities. 

A prime example is a Remote Building Information Modeling (BIM) Coordinator. This job involves managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of places, which can significantly aid in decision-making processes for construction projects. BIM Coordinators can collaborate with architectural and engineering teams remotely, overseeing the model’s development and integration. 

Another intriguing role is that of a Virtual Safety Trainer. With the advancement of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, safety trainers can conduct immersive training sessions for construction workers from anywhere, ensuring they’re well-prepared for onsite safety challenges. 

Additionally, Construction Software Developer roles are increasingly important. Developers create and maintain software solutions that streamline project management, design, and operational functions, allowing for efficient remote support of construction projects.

Ryan Zomorodi, COO & Co-Founder, Real Estate Skills

Steer Projects and Train from Anywhere

Increasingly embracing remote roles, the construction industry has been enhancing efficiency and expanding the scope of traditional positions.

Project managers in remote construction roles are responsible for steering projects from inception to completion, orchestrating team efforts, and managing resources from afar to guarantee the success of construction initiatives.

Safety trainers have adapted to online platforms, offering essential safety training and certification to construction personnel, fostering a culture of safety from a distance.

Then there are support specialists for construction software who operate remotely, delivering crucial technical assistance and training on construction software, helping users navigate challenges and stay updated with the latest software enhancements.

Eugene Klimaszewski, President, Mammoth Security