Key Takeaways:
- A multiskilled worker is trained to safely handle more than one job, such as a carpenter who is also qualified to handle drywall.
- Cross-training makes existing crews more flexible, so a call-off or open position doesn’t leave a hole in the schedule.
- Multiskilling can reduce downtime, overtime, and subcontractor calls, and it can improve retention by giving workers more pay and job security.
- Real-time tracking of who did what, for how long, and at what pay rate is essential, since errors can lead to back pay, penalties, and audits.
- Start small with one or two problem tasks, pilot on one project, keep training records, and check licensing and workers’ comp classifications with your insurer.
Getting More From the Crews You Already Have
Labor shortages are continuing to challenge construction companies. Finding qualified workers isn’t easy, and delays can drive up project costs. For smaller contractors with limited crews, even one employee call-off can throw off an entire schedule.
Multiskilling is one way to fix it. Here’s how to use this workforce strategy to make better use of existing teams, reduce downtime, and keep projects moving.
What Exactly Is Multiskilling?
A multiskilled worker is trained to do more than one job. The idea is to give workers additional skills they can safely use when the job calls for it. Think of a carpenter who is also qualified to handle drywall.
Multiskilled employees can move between tasks as needed, which cuts back on times when you need to call in additional workers or subcontractors.
How Multiskilling Addresses Labor Shortages
Waiting for a skilled worker to fill an open position can take a long time. Multiskilling allows you to work with what you already have by making existing crews more flexible. Let’s say a worker quits or you need to call in a specialist. Rather than waiting around with a hole in the schedule, a qualified member of your team can step in to complete the task.
It also improves employee retention. Workers who take on new skills and can cover more assignments often enjoy higher pay, more opportunities, and better job security.
Reducing Downtime and Labor Costs
A major advantage of multiskilling is the potential to reduce wasted time. Instead of crews waiting around on a jobsite for another crew to finish up, multiskilled workers can help close the gaps by finishing one task and moving on to the next. This means fewer delays, better labor utilization, and potentially shorter project timelines. It also means limiting unnecessary overtime, avoiding extra subcontractor calls, and making better use of employees already on-site.
However, this all depends on proper planning and training. Assigning workers to unfamiliar tasks without the necessary training can lead to costly mistakes, rework, and potentially unsafe working conditions.
Track It in Real Time
When employees perform several types of work, you need to be able to track who did what, for how long, and at what pay rate. Because different trades often carry different pay rates. Getting any of this wrong could lead to back pay, penalties, and audits.
Real-time tracking helps ensure accurate payroll, job costs, and project reporting. Digital time tracking tools and apps make this easier by allowing employees and supervisors to record hours by task, trade, and project. This helps to keep your payroll and job cost reports accurate. And you have the records if they’re ever needed.
How to Implement Multiskilling
Start small. Pick one or two tasks that frequently cause delays, additional workers, or other headaches. Then:
- Identify willing workers who could reasonably learn those skills.
- Use on-the-job training, manufacturer courses, or local trade programs.
- Set clear pay for new skills.
- Start on one project before rolling it out company-wide.
- Track training expenses, wage differences, productivity, and overtime to determine whether multiskilling is delivering actual savings.
Safety should remain a priority. Some workers will need licenses or proper certifications. Keep training records. Check in with your insurance, as some policies and workers’ comp classifications depend on the type of work being done.
The goal with multiskilling is to end up with stronger crews and fewer idle days. When implemented correctly, it can help control costs, manage labor shortages, and complete projects more efficiently.
