Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 348,884	$ 134,035	$ (79,703)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation gains (losses), net of tax	1,627	2,585	(38,347)
Unrealized gains on equity investee activity, net of tax	475	3,952	0
Comprehensive income (loss)	350,986	140,572	(118,050)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests	1,671	2,772	(593)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to MasTec, Inc.	$ 349,315	$ 137,800	$ (117,457)