Plumber

General Contractors play a pivotal role in delivering critical water and wastewater infrastructure across Hawaiʻi. From building decentralized wastewater systems in remote communities to upgrading large-scale water treatment facilities and stormwater controls, general contractors ensure that designs are brought to life safely, on time, and within budget.

They oversee all phases of construction coordinating subcontractors, managing permits, ensuring site safety, and maintaining quality control. In Hawaiʻi, where island-specific challenges like remote access, supply logistics, weather, and cultural sensitivity must be addressed, experienced general contractors are essential to sustainable and resilient development.

Education & Training

This position typically requires:

  • High school diploma or GED (though many contractors have degrees in construction management, civil engineering, or architecture)

  • Extensive experience in the trades (e.g., plumbing, carpentry, excavation, electrical)

  • Completion of business, project management, and safety training

  • A Hawaiʻi General Contractor License (Type A or B), issued by the State Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA)

  • Passing the Hawaiʻi contractor exam, including trade-specific and business/legal sections

  • Insurance, bonding, and proof of relevant work experience (typically 4 years of supervisory-level experience)

In Hawai’i, you can study at:

  • University of Hawaiʻi – Mānoa (College of Engineering)

  • Honolulu Community College – Construction Academy / Apprenticeship Programs

  • Leeward and Kapiʻolani Community Colleges

    • Offer business and trade-related courses beneficial for managing construction businesses

    • Website: https://uhcc.hawaii.edu

  • Hawaiʻi Contractors License Board (via DCCA-PVL)

  • Hawaiʻi Building Industry Association (HBIA)

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Construction methods for water/wastewater systems, pump stations, and site utilities

  • Blueprint reading and plan interpretation

  • Hawaiʻi building codes, plumbing codes, and environmental regulations (e.g., NPDES, SMA, CZM)

  • Permit processes, local contracting rules, and environmental assessments

  • Budgeting, bidding, scheduling, and subcontractor management

  • Cultural and archaeological site protections relevant to Hawaiʻi projects

Skill in:

  • Coordinating complex construction projects from start to finish

  • Working with engineers, architects, operators, subcontractors, and permitting agencies

  • Managing crews, materials, timelines, and safety compliance

  • Problem-solving on-site issues and adapting to field conditions

  • Ensuring quality assurance and regulatory compliance

Ability to:

  • Navigate Hawaiʻi’s permitting processes and public works requirements

  • Communicate effectively with community members, government agencies, and project stakeholders

  • Lead diverse teams and ensure cultural sensitivity on sensitive lands

  • Maintain safety standards and worksite protocols under high-risk conditions

  • Scale operations for multi-site or multi-island work

Scholarships & Opportunities