As a construction job seeker, should I get an employment contract if offered a job?

An employment contract with a construction employer is a double edged sword that cuts both ways. As construction recruiters we advise to avoid them if at all possible and opt for a simple written agreement in layman's terms (usually given in the form of an offer letter). If all you want is a solid severance agreement if you are terminated, then ask for that to be included in your job offer.

Employment contracts sound good but can rarely have more benefit to the job seeker than to the employer. Any contract worth having will likely handcuff you as much as the employer so it is better to figure out what it is you really want from the employment contract, and deal with that specific issue in your job offer agreement. If the employer is concerned about financial information that suggest an NDA. If an employer is concerned with you taking their clients or employees than suggest a non-compete or non-solicitation clause added to your job offer.

Keep in mind a job offer in writing is in effect an employment contract so it might make sense to have your attorney look it over before accepting it.