Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho Career Overview
As a Sidewalk Construction Worker, you play a vital role in the development and maintenance of walkable urban environments. Your work contributes directly to the safety and usability of pedestrian pathways, enhancing public spaces and improving community accessibility. Key aspects of this career include:
Role Definition: You are responsible for constructing, repairing, and maintaining sidewalks, ensuring they meet local regulations and standards. Your tasks may involve preparing the site, pouring concrete, setting forms, and applying finishing touches to create durable pedestrian surfaces.
Importance in the Industry: Sidewalks are essential components of urban infrastructure, facilitating pedestrian movement and promoting safety. Your efforts help to reduce pedestrian accidents by creating clear and stable pathways while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods.
Collaboration and Coordination: You often work alongside other construction professionals, including laborers, foremen, and project managers. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure project timelines are met and that construction activities align with broader urban development goals.
Commitment to Quality: You are expected to uphold high standards of craftsmanship that reflect the visual and functional needs of the community. The quality of your work impacts not only the immediate area but also the long-term usability and safety of pedestrian routes.
Impact on Community: Your role extends beyond mere construction; you contribute to the livability of cities and towns. Well-constructed sidewalks promote walking, which can lead to healthier lifestyles and decrease reliance on vehicles, fostering more sustainable communities.
In summary, as a Sidewalk Construction Worker, your contributions are foundational to creating functional and welcoming spaces for pedestrians, playing a key part in the overall infrastructure that supports urban life.
Sidewalk Construction Worker Salary in Idaho
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho
To become a Sidewalk Construction Worker, certain educational qualifications and training programs are beneficial for your career development. Consider pursuing the following college degree programs:
Carpentry: This program focuses on the construction and repair of structures, including frameworks for sidewalks. You will learn essential techniques and principles related to building and installation.
Concrete Finishing: In this program, you will gain specialized skills in preparing, pouring, and finishing concrete. Knowledge in this area is vital, as you'll be working directly with concrete materials used in sidewalk construction.
Construction Engineering Technology: A degree in this field offers a broad understanding of construction processes, including project management and materials science. This foundational knowledge aids in the effective planning and execution of sidewalk projects.
Construction Trades: This program encompasses a range of construction skills, providing hands-on experience and technical training in areas pertinent to sidewalk construction and maintenance.
Masonry Technology: This area of study emphasizes masonry skills, which are important in creating durable sidewalks that may involve brick or stone materials. You will learn about mixing materials and constructing stable surfaces.
These educational pathways will equip you with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Sidewalk Construction Worker.
Best Schools to become a Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho 2024
Texas A & M University-College Station
Ivy Tech Community College
University of Houston
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Community College of Allegheny County
University of Florida
- Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools.
- Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut expansion joints.
Sidewalk Construction Worker Required Skills and Competencies in Idaho
Concrete Mixing and Pouring: You should be skilled in mixing and pouring concrete safely and effectively, ensuring that it meets the required specifications for sidewalk construction.
Measurement and Layout: Proficiency in measuring and laying out construction areas is essential. You must be able to interpret blueprints and accurately mark dimensions for sidewalks.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Good hand-eye coordination will help you handle equipment and tools efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring quality workmanship.
Physical Stamina and Strength: The job requires significant physical endurance and strength to lift heavy materials, operate machinery, and perform tasks over long hours.
Problem-Solving Skills: You will encounter various challenges on the job that require quick thinking and effective problem-solving to ensure projects remain on track.
Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail is critical for achieving the correct specifications in measurements, finishes, and overall appearance of sidewalks.
Teamwork and Communication: Being able to communicate clearly with team members and collaborate effectively is important for maintaining workflow and ensuring safety on the site.
Safety Awareness: An understanding of safety protocols and practices is necessary to protect yourself and your colleagues from hazardous conditions while working on construction sites.
Tool Operation and Maintenance: You should be proficient in the operation and maintenance of various construction tools and equipment, including saws, mixers, and hand tools.
Basic Mathematical Skills: A solid foundation in basic math skills will assist you with calculations related to measurements, area, and material quantities.
Job Duties for Sidewalk Construction Workers
Check the forms that hold the concrete to see that they are properly constructed.
Set the forms that hold concrete to the desired pitch and depth, and align them.
Spread, level, and smooth concrete, using rake, shovel, hand or power trowel, hand or power screed, and float.
Accounting software
- Sirus GT Construction Accounting
Analytical or scientific software
- ADAPT-Modeler
- Shilstone seeMIX
Project management software
- National Concrete & Masonry Estimator
- Tradesman's Software Master Estimator
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho
The job market for Sidewalk Construction Workers in Idaho is experiencing notable demand, driven by several factors:
Infrastructure Development: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, particularly in urban areas, are creating a consistent need for sidewalk construction. Local governments and municipalities are prioritizing pedestrian-friendly environments, which include constructing and upgrading sidewalks.
Population Growth: Idaho's population continues to grow, especially in cities like Boise and Coeur d'Alene. This growth translates to increased residential and commercial development projects that require new sidewalks and pathways.
Public Projects: Numerous public projects, including road expansions and urban renewal initiatives, are paving the way for increased sidewalk construction. These projects often demand hiring a significant number of skilled workers to meet timelines and quality standards.
Weather-Related Repairs: Seasonal weather impacts can lead to wear and tear on existing sidewalks, necessitating repair work. The region's varied climate makes regular maintenance a priority, ensuring ongoing job availability for construction workers.
Geographical hotspots for Sidewalk Construction Workers in Idaho include:
Boise: The state capital is a significant hub for construction activities due to its urban development plans and growing population. It frequently has multiple sidewalk construction projects underway.
Idaho Falls: This city is another growing area where new commercial and residential properties are emerging, boosting the demand for sidewalk construction.
Twin Falls: As the region expands, so does the need for infrastructure improvements, including sidewalks that connect various developments.
Coeur d'Alene: Known for its active tourism sector, Coeur d'Alene is investing in infrastructure to enhance walkability and accessibility, leading to job opportunities in sidewalk construction.
Overall, the job market for Sidewalk Construction Workers in Idaho presents a stable outlook, characterized by consistent demand due to infrastructure investments and population growth.
Top Related Careers to Sidewalk Construction Worker 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
- Website: cdc.gov/niosh
- NIOSH offers guidelines on safety practices relevant to construction workers, including those involved in sidewalk construction.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- Website: osha.gov
- OSHA provides regulations, training resources, and safety tips that are essential for construction and sidewalk workers to ensure a safe working environment.
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
- Website: concrete.org
- ACI offers industry standards, technical resources, and educational materials related to concrete work, which is a critical component of sidewalk construction.
U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
- Website: bls.gov
- The BLS provides information on job outlook, wages, and work conditions for construction laborers, which includes sidewalk construction roles.
Idaho Department of Labor
- Website: dol.idaho.gov
- This state-level resource offers job listings, labor market statistics, and training program information specific to Idaho.
National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA)
- Website: asphaltpavement.org
- NAPA offers resources related to asphalt usage, benefits, and construction techniques that can be relevant for completing sidewalks.
American Public Works Association (APWA)
- Website: apwa.net
- APWA provides resources, publications, and certifications that can benefit individuals involved in public works projects, including sidewalks.
Construction Industry Training Council of Idaho (CITC)
- Website: citcidaho.com
- CITC offers training programs and certifications specific to construction trades, enhancing skills relevant to sidewalk construction.
Idaho Transportation Department
- Website: itd.idaho.gov
- Check for guidelines, specifications, and policies related to sidewalk construction within state transportation projects.
YouTube - Construction Safety Training Videos
- Link: YouTube Safety Training
- Search for instructional and safety training videos that cover best practices and safety protocols in construction work, which can be beneficial for your career as a sidewalk construction worker.
Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge, gain further training, and stay updated on industry practices that will support your career in sidewalk construction in Idaho.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sidewalk Construction Worker in Idaho
What are the primary duties of a sidewalk construction worker?
As a sidewalk construction worker, your primary duties include preparing the construction site, pouring and finishing concrete, installing forms, ensuring proper drainage, and maintaining safety protocols during installation.What skills are essential for success in this role?
Key skills include proficiency with tools and equipment, attention to detail, physical stamina, ability to follow instructions, and a good understanding of safety procedures in construction settings.What type of education or training is required?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Many workers gain skills through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or technical programs in construction technology.Are there any certifications needed to work as a sidewalk construction worker?
While formal certifications are not always required, obtaining certifications in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety can enhance your employability and demonstrate a commitment to safe work practices.What is the typical work environment for sidewalk construction workers?
You will primarily work outdoors on construction sites. This involves exposure to various weather conditions and working in collaboration with other construction professionals.What are the physical demands of this job?
The job requires significant physical activity, including lifting heavy materials, standing for long periods, and working in various positions that may demand bending, kneeling, and climbing.What is the average salary for a sidewalk construction worker in Idaho?
The average salary can vary based on experience, location, and specific employer. As of the latest data, you can expect to earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually.What employment opportunities are available for sidewalk construction workers?
Opportunities can be found with construction companies, government agencies, and private contractors specializing in commercial and residential ramp and sidewalk projects.Is there advancement potential in this career?
Yes, with experience and additional training, you may have the opportunity to advance to supervisory or management positions within construction crews, or you could specialize in areas such as concrete finishing or surveying.What safety practices are important in sidewalk construction?
Mandatory safety practices include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), being aware of your surroundings, adhering to all safety regulations, and knowing how to safely operate construction machinery.