Despite any short-term economic problems, construction is an industry where there will always be demand. Homes and commercial property have to be built, infrastructure projects undertaken and anything that’s already built has to be repaired and renewed. So, although the level of demand changes, it will never go away and there will always be a need for construction workers.
The construction industry is one of the largest in the world and in the UK alone there are estimated to be around 300,000 companies employing some two million people in various roles. It’s also one of the most diverse, with employment ranging from unskilled labourers through a range of trades to highly skilled design jobs and senior management positions. If you want a job in the construction industry, therefore, it’s important you consider carefully what’s available so you can make the best choice.
Types of work
The first choice you have to make is the type of job. This not only determines what you’ll do in the short-term but also your future career path. It’s important you make the right choice now because this can set your future course.
Inside or out. Construction is obviously an outdoor activity so, if you like working outside, there’ll be a job for you. If you don’t, there are plenty of normally indoor trades such as electricians and plumbers, as well as office-based activities.
Manual work or desk-based. If you like working with your hands, there are numerous trades that will meet your needs. Otherwise, if you’re more the office type, there’s a whole range of jobs such as surveyors and planners. Also, one can lead to the other because you can advance from a manual trade to a supervisory role.
Who to work for
Prospective employers range from the large multi-national contractors to the small local building companies.
• The large companies will offer the widest range of opportunities with plenty of jobs and the greatest possibility for advancement. Against that, you may be a very small fish in a very big pond and can feel a little anonymous. You may be required to travel to work on distant contracts and advancement in the firm may require you to relocate.
• A local firm will have fewer opportunities but, equally, less competition. You may also gain wider experience because, since there are fewer employees, you may be asked to do many different jobs.
Education Needs
Construction has probably one of the widest ranges of education needs of any industry. If you’re going to go right to the top, such as an architect in a renowned practice, you’re going to have to join a professional body and have a university degree or equivalent. At the other extreme, labourers need little more than physical ability.
Construction jobs at all levels do require some degree of education or training because you’ll at least need a CSCS card to get on most construction sites. To obtain that, you have to pass a Health, Safety & Environment test and will need a stated level of NVQ for most types of card.
If you want on the job training, there are apprenticeships available for many trades. That means you can earn money, gain practical experience and get a qualification at the same time.
Working Abroad
Construction is an industry where skills will transfer abroad . Although national and local regulations may be different, the principles for building something are the same wherever you happen to be.
You may obviously not start by working abroad but, if it’s a long-term aim, choosing wisely will help and working for a large, multi-national company may present plenty of opportunities.
Having the option to work abroad means you can go where the work is. Whilst some countries are struggling, others are booming and there are always large projects underway somewhere. You’ll also get variety, with the chance to work on environmental or other projects that interest you.
Most construction skills are transferable so the actual job or trade you choose may not be too significant. Of more importance is the amount of experience you have so it’s essential to get a good grounding that’s broadly based.