Navy BU Builder to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)
Real career options for Navy Builders transitioning to civilian construction. Includes salary ranges $50K-$95K+, certifications, and direct path from Seabees to civilian trades.
Bottom Line Up Front
Navy Builders (BU) are the largest Seabee rating, and you've got real construction skills—carpentry, concrete work, masonry, heavy timber construction, and blueprint reading. Your experience translates directly to union carpenter, construction supervisor, project manager, and skilled trades positions in the civilian world. Realistic first-year salaries range from $50,000-$65,000, with experienced tradesmen hitting $75,000-$95,000+ as journeyman carpenters, foremen, or construction managers. You'll need state licensing in some cases and union apprenticeship completion in others, but your Seabee training puts you years ahead of civilians starting from scratch.
Let's address the elephant in the room
You've probably heard: "Construction is boom and bust." "The trades don't pay well." "You'll destroy your body by 50."
Here's what that misses: skilled tradespeople are in massive demand, and the Baby Boomers are retiring.
The construction industry is facing a technician shortage. According to industry reports, most construction companies need at least three more skilled workers each. That's leverage for you.
As a Navy Builder, you didn't just hammer nails. You:
- Read and interpreted complex blueprints and technical drawings
- Built heavy timber structures including wharves, bridges, and fortifications
- Mixed, placed, and finished concrete for foundations and structures
- Managed material estimates and labor projections
- Supervised junior personnel and coordinated construction projects
- Maintained accountability for thousands of dollars in tools and equipment
- Worked in climates ranging from tropical to arctic
- Executed construction under tight deadlines and demanding conditions
That's project management, quality control, team leadership, and technical skill—all packaged in someone who shows up on time and works hard. Civilian construction companies will pay for that.
Best civilian career paths for Navy Builders
Let's get specific. Here are the fields where BUs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.
Union carpenter (most direct path)
Civilian job titles:
- Union carpenter (residential, commercial, industrial)
- Rough carpenter / framing carpenter
- Finish carpenter
- Concrete carpenter / form setter
- Bridge carpenter
Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):
- Apprentice (year 1-2): $31,000-$41,000 ($15-$20/hour)
- Journeyman carpenter: $50,000-$70,000 ($24-$35/hour)
- Union journeyman (major cities): $64,000-$80,000+ ($32-$42/hour)
- Foreman / lead carpenter: $65,000-$87,000+
- Specialty carpenters (bridge, high-rise): $70,000-$95,000+
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wage for carpenters was $60,059 in 2025, but union carpenters in high-demand areas like Northern California earn $64.01/hour ($133,000+ annually with overtime).
What translates directly:
- Blueprint reading and interpretation
- Framing and rough carpentry
- Concrete formwork and finishing
- Heavy timber construction
- Tool use and maintenance
- Safety protocols and procedures
- Team coordination and supervision
Certifications needed:
- Union apprenticeship completion (typically 3-4 years, but you may enter at advanced level with Seabee experience)
- OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification ($50-150, often provided by employer)
- State contractor license (if you want to work independently—requirements vary by state)
Reality check: Many BUs can enter union apprenticeships at Year 2 or Year 3 level based on their Seabee training, meaning you skip 1-2 years of lower wages. Your Navy experience counts.
Union shops provide benefits—health insurance, pension, annuity—that rival military benefits. Total compensation packages can exceed $90,000-$100,000 when you factor in wages plus benefits.
Non-union work pays less but offers more flexibility. Expect $18-$28/hour in non-union residential carpentry depending on your location.
Best for: BUs who want to stay hands-on with construction, value union benefits and job security, and prefer clear career progression.
Construction supervisor / superintendent
Civilian job titles:
- Construction foreman
- Site supervisor
- Construction superintendent
- Field supervisor
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level supervisor: $62,000-$75,000
- Experienced superintendent: $75,000-$95,000
- Senior construction superintendent: $85,000-$120,000+
According to Glassdoor and recent salary surveys, construction supervisors average $83,533 per year, with project superintendents earning $97,768 on average.
What translates directly:
- Crew leadership and task assignment
- Material estimates and labor projections
- Schedule coordination and deadline management
- Quality control and safety enforcement
- Reading plans and specifications
- Problem-solving under pressure
Certifications needed:
- OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety (required in many states, ~$200-300)
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM) (preferred, increases salary—average CCM earns $99,000)
- Associate's degree in Construction Management (preferred by many companies, covered by GI Bill)
- First Aid/CPR
Reality check: You're not swinging hammers—you're managing the people who do. This role requires communication skills, diplomacy, and paperwork. You'll spend time in the field but also in the trailer doing reports and coordinating with project managers.
E-6 and E-7 Builders who handled estimating and supervision in the Navy can move directly into these roles. Companies like Turner Construction, Bechtel, and Fluor actively recruit veterans and offer training programs.
Best for: Senior BUs (E-5 and above) who prefer management over hands-on work and want office-field hybrid roles.
Project manager / estimator
Civilian job titles:
- Construction project manager
- Project estimator
- Assistant project manager
- Preconstruction coordinator
Salary ranges:
- Entry-level project manager: $65,000-$80,000
- Experienced PM: $85,000-$110,000
- Senior PM / project director: $110,000-$176,000+
According to BLS data, construction managers earned a median wage of $106,980 in May 2024, with top earners exceeding $176,990.
What translates directly:
- Material and labor estimating
- Project planning and scheduling
- Blueprint and specification review
- Budget tracking and cost control
- Coordination with subcontractors and vendors
- Safety compliance oversight
Certifications needed:
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (many companies require this—use your GI Bill)
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (optional but increases marketability, $300-500 exam fee)
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM) (industry-specific PM credential)
- OSHA 30-hour Construction
Reality check: This is the white-collar side of construction. You're in the office more than the field, managing budgets, schedules, contracts, and client relationships. It requires a bachelor's degree in most cases.
The money is excellent, and the work-life balance is better than field supervision (though still demanding during projects). Companies prefer candidates with both construction experience AND formal education—your Seabee background plus GI Bill degree makes you competitive.
Best for: Senior BUs who want to transition fully to office-based construction management and are willing to complete a degree.
Concrete finisher / mason / specialty trades
Civilian job titles:
- Concrete finisher
- Cement mason
- Bricklayer / stonemason
- Tile setter
Salary ranges:
- Concrete finisher: $45,000-$65,000
- Mason: $48,000-$70,000
- Specialty finisher (stamped, decorative): $60,000-$80,000+
What translates directly:
- Concrete mixing, placing, and finishing
- Form construction and removal
- Trowel work and surface finishing
- Masonry layout and installation
- Quality control for structural integrity
Certifications needed:
- Trade-specific apprenticeship (2-3 years for masonry, less for concrete finishing)
- Union membership (optional but increases wages—union masons average $55K-$75K)
- OSHA safety cards
Reality check: This is physically demanding work. You're on your knees, lifting, working in heat and cold. But demand is strong, and experienced finishers with artistic skill (decorative concrete, stamped work) can command premium rates.
Many BUs go this route and start their own small businesses after a few years—residential driveways, patios, decorative work. Self-employed concrete contractors can earn $80K-$120K+ if they build a customer base.
Best for: BUs who like hands-on work, want to specialize in concrete or masonry, and potentially start their own business.
Heavy civil / infrastructure construction
Civilian job titles:
- Bridge carpenter
- Highway construction technician
- Heavy civil carpenter
- Pile driver operator
Salary ranges:
- Highway construction worker: $45,000-$60,000
- Bridge carpenter: $60,000-$85,000
- Pile driver operator: $55,000-$75,000
What translates directly:
- Heavy timber construction (wharves, bridges)
- Pile driving and foundation work
- Blueprint reading for complex structures
- Working at heights and over water
- Equipment operation and rigging
Certifications needed:
- Union carpenter card (most heavy civil work is union)
- Rigging and signaling certifications
- Fall protection training
- Confined space entry (for some bridge work)
Reality check: Heavy civil work pays well and offers steady employment on large government-funded projects (highways, bridges, dams). You'll travel to job sites, sometimes living in per diem.
Your Navy bridge and wharf construction experience is directly applicable. Companies doing DOT work and federal contracts give veteran preference.
Best for: BUs with heavy timber and bridge-building experience who don't mind travel and want stable, well-paying union work.
Skills translation table (for your resume)
Stop writing "Navy Builder" on your resume. Civilians don't know what that means. Here's how to translate:
| Military Skill | Civilian Translation |
|---|---|
| BU rating / Seabee Builder | Skilled carpenter with expertise in commercial and heavy construction |
| Read and interpret blueprints | Proficient in blueprint reading, plan interpretation, and technical drawing analysis |
| Heavy timber construction | Constructed bridges, wharves, and complex timber structures per engineering specifications |
| Concrete formwork and finishing | Mixed, placed, and finished concrete; erected and stripped forms for foundations and structures |
| Material estimates and labor projections | Prepared cost estimates, material takeoffs, and labor requirements for construction projects |
| Supervised junior personnel | Led teams of 5-10 personnel in construction operations; coordinated daily work assignments |
| Maintained tool accountability | Managed $50K+ tool and equipment inventory; maintained accountability and preventive maintenance |
| Worked in all climates | Performed construction in diverse environments including tropical, desert, and arctic conditions |
| Safety compliance | Enforced OSHA-equivalent safety protocols; maintained zero-accident record on projects |
Use active verbs: Built, Constructed, Supervised, Coordinated, Managed, Executed, Installed.
Use numbers: "Led team of 8," "Managed $75K equipment inventory," "Completed 25+ construction projects."
Drop Navy acronyms. Don't write "NMCB" or "MCB"—write "naval construction battalion" or just describe the project.
Certifications that actually matter
Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill benefits:
High priority (get these first):
Union carpenter apprenticeship - Entering a union apprenticeship gets you training, wages, and benefits while you work. Many unions allow veterans to enter at Year 2 or Year 3 based on military experience. Cost: Free (you get paid while learning). Time: 2-4 years to journeyman. Value: Opens doors to $60K-$90K+ jobs with full benefits.
OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety - Required for supervisory roles and many jobsites. Online or in-person. Cost: $200-300. Time: 30 hours over 1-2 weeks. Value: Required credential for supervisors and leads.
State contractor license - If you want to start your own business or work independently. Requirements vary by state. California requires C-5 (Framing) or C-6 (Finish) license for jobs over $500. Cost: $100-500 (exam and application fees). Time: Study + exam. Value: Required to pull permits and work independently.
Medium priority (if it fits your path):
Associate's degree in Construction Management - Required or strongly preferred for project management and office roles. Use your GI Bill. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years full-time or 3-4 years part-time. Value: Opens PM and estimator roles paying $75K-$110K+.
Certified Construction Manager (CCM) - Industry credential for construction managers. Requires bachelor's degree and 4+ years experience. Cost: $500-800 (exam). Value: Increases average salary to $99K according to PayScale.
Forklift / heavy equipment certifications - If you want to operate equipment. Cost: $200-500 per certification. Value: Equipment operators earn $45K-$65K.
Lower priority (nice to have):
Project Management Professional (PMP) - General PM credential. More valuable if you're pivoting to non-construction PM work. Cost: $500 exam fee. Requires 3 years PM experience.
Green building certifications (LEED) - For sustainable construction projects. Cost: $200-400. Value: Niche specialty, not critical for most BU careers.
The skills gap (what you need to learn)
Let's be honest. There are things civilian construction requires that the Navy didn't emphasize.
Customer service and client relations: Military construction is mission-focused. Civilian construction is customer-focused. You'll deal with homeowners, architects, and owners who change their minds. Learn patience and professional communication.
Bidding and estimating (if going independent): Navy projects had budgets assigned. Civilian contractors bid competitively. You'll need to learn cost estimating, markup, overhead calculation, and how to write competitive bids.
Building codes and permitting: Military construction followed NAVFAC standards. Civilian work follows state and local building codes. You'll need to learn your local codes, permit requirements, and inspection processes.
Business management (if starting your own company): Running a construction business means accounting, insurance, licensing, payroll, marketing, and taxes. Take a small business course or find a mentor.
Computer skills: Modern construction uses software—estimating programs, project management tools (Procore, Buildertrend), CAD for some roles. Get comfortable with technology beyond email.
Real Navy Builder success stories
James, 28, former BU E-5 → Union carpenter in Seattle
James did 6 years as a Builder with two deployments. Got out and immediately joined the local carpenters union apprenticeship, entering at Year 3 based on his Seabee experience. Two years later, he's a journeyman making $64/hour ($133K annually with overtime). Full benefits including pension. "The union benefits are as good as military healthcare," he says.
Maria, 32, former BU E-6 → Construction supervisor in Texas
Maria did 8 years, supervising projects as an E-6. Got out and used her GI Bill to finish an associate's in construction management while working part-time for a commercial contractor. Within a year, she was promoted to site supervisor making $78K. "The Navy taught me how to manage people and projects. The degree just checked the civilian box."
Robert, 35, former BU E-7 → Project manager for Turner Construction
Robert did 12 years, leaving as a Chief. Completed his bachelor's in Construction Management using GI Bill while working as an estimator. Turner Construction hired him as an assistant PM at $82K. Three years later, he's a full PM making $115K managing multimillion-dollar commercial projects.
Kevin, 29, former BU E-4 → Self-employed concrete contractor
Kevin did one contract (5 years), got out, and worked for a concrete company for 2 years learning the residential side. Started his own decorative concrete business doing driveways, patios, and stamped work. Now clears $95K+ per year with two employees. "I set my own schedule and choose my jobs. Best decision I made."
Action plan: your first 90 days out
Here's what to actually do when you transition:
Month 1: Assessment and setup
- Update your resume using the skills translation table above
- Get 10 copies of your DD-214
- Apply for VA benefits (disability, GI Bill)
- Research union apprenticeships in your area (visit local union halls)
- Identify 3-5 construction companies hiring veterans (Turner, Bechtel, Fluor, local contractors)
- Set up LinkedIn profile highlighting construction skills
Month 2: Certifications and applications
- Complete OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety training (online, ~$200-300)
- Apply to union apprenticeships (IBEW for carpenters, local trades councils)
- Apply to 10-15 construction companies (bring resume in person if possible)
- Contact veteran hiring programs: RecruitMilitary, Hire Heroes USA, Helmets to Hardhats
- If pursuing degree: Apply to community college construction management program using GI Bill
Month 3: Network and interview
- Attend construction job fairs and union hiring events
- Visit local union halls and introduce yourself as a veteran Builder
- Practice interview answers focusing on leadership, safety, project completion
- Consider temporary work with staffing agencies (gets you on jobsites quickly)
- Connect with other Seabee veterans on LinkedIn and ask for referrals
Companies actively hiring veteran Builders
These companies have veteran hiring programs and regularly recruit Seabees:
Major contractors:
- Turner Construction - Named Forbes Best Employer for Veterans 2024
- Bechtel - Partners with Helmets to Hardhats for veteran recruitment
- Fluor Corporation - Military Support Coalition and veteran hiring initiatives
- Kiewit - Large infrastructure contractor with veteran programs
- Suffolk Construction - Veteran apprenticeship programs
Supplier/Materials (alternative path):
- Builders FirstSource - Nation's largest building materials supplier, actively hires veterans for sales, management, and operations
Union opportunities:
- United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) - National union with locals in every state
- Laborers' International Union (LIUNA) - Concrete, masonry, and general labor
- Visit HelmettoHardhats.org - Connects military veterans to construction apprenticeships
Bottom line for Navy Builders
Your Builder rating isn't just "military construction." It's legitimate skilled trade experience that civilians pay $60K-$90K+ for.
You've proven you can read blueprints, build complex structures, lead teams, manage materials, and work in tough conditions. Construction companies need exactly those skills, and they're struggling to find qualified people.
Union apprenticeships will fast-track you based on your Seabee experience. Construction management roles will value your leadership. And if you want to go independent, you've got the skills to start your own business.
First-year income of $50K-$65K is realistic for journeyman-level union work. Within 5 years, $75K-$95K+ is absolutely achievable as a foreman, superintendent, or specialized tradesman. Project managers with degrees hit $110K+.
The trades aren't going anywhere. AI can't pour concrete or frame a house. Your skills have lasting value.
Don't undersell yourself. You're not "just a Builder." You're a skilled construction professional with military discipline and real-world project experience.
Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your skills, research local union wages, and track your certifications.