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What jobs are available in the construction industry

Writer's picture: Paulo FerreiraPaulo Ferreira

The construction industry offers plenty of opportunities for people looking to start a career. Whether you want to be a builder or tradesperson, such as a plasterer or a site manager, there are many options and paths you can take. In this quick guide, we will explain why the construction industry is worth considering and what roles are available.




What job roles can I get in construction?


Generally, the construction industry covers building and maintaining structures, like homes, offices, roads, and bridges. The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to the UK economy and employment. Here’s a quick overview of jobs and work available:


Labourers

Labourers perform manual tasks on construction sites, such as moving materials, maintaining work areas clean and tidy, and helping other trades where needed. Although being a general labourer can be physically demanding, it does not require training and could be a way to get construction experience.


Tradespersons

Tradespersons are skilled workers specialised in a particular trade, which includes carpenters, electricians, glaziers, plumbers, bricklayers, and steel fitters. Working in a trade will involve training, knowledge and experience.


Vehicle, machine and plant operators

These include drivers of forklifts and operators of large machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, skip trucks, etc. Training and qualifications are required to operate machinery. Operating heavy machinery requires focus, attention to detail and care to ensure safety is always maintained.


Site managers

Site managers and supervisors oversee the trades and work on site. They ensure tasks are completed on time, safely, and within budget and maintain work standards. This type of work requires technical knowledge, focus and leadership skills.


Project managers

A construction project manager oversees the project from start to finish. They set the plan for the project with start and end dates and work with architects, engineers and site managers to keep the project on track.


Architects and engineers

Architects produce the visual and technical design of buildings or other structures. They will set out what needs to be built and specifications, including the materials and dimensions. Architects need to have excellent knowledge of construction. 


Engineers focus on the technical aspects and can be involved in installing and maintaining structures and facilities such as water, electricity and heating. Civil engineers oversee large-scale infrastructures and projects like roads and railways.




Is there work in the construction industry?


Construction workers remain in high demand and there are many opportunities. According to the Construction Skills Network Industry Outlook Report for 2024 to 2028 an extra 251,500 workers will be needed by 2028 to meet the expected levels of work. The sectors with the most demand are private housing, infrastructure and repairs and maintenance.


The roles predicted to be most in demand in 2028 are construction professionals and technical staff, labourers, carpenters and joiners, wood and interior fit-out trades, architects, plant operatives and civil engineers. 




Should I consider working in the construction industry?


Apart from the high demand that is predicted in the construction industry, there are other reasons to consider working in construction:


Accessible work

Getting started is relatively easy, even you are fresh out of school or have little experience. For example, starting as a labourer or getting an apprenticeship in a trade can give you valuable work experience without formal qualifications and get set on your career. 


Progression

There are many options and careers paths you can take in construction. Many of these roles and skills you learn will lead to more senior opportunities. Many in managerial or senior positions have worked their way up.


Good pay rates

The construction industry is highly competitive and with higher demand predicted in the next few years, pay rates will likely increase. Currently, some of our experienced operatives earn over £1,000 a week.




Conclusion


The construction industry has many job options, whether you're just starting or looking to advance in your career. There's something for everyone, from entry-level roles like labourers to skilled jobs like carpenters and electricians, and even managerial positions like site or project managers. With many new projects expected in the coming years, there will be a high worker demand, making this a good time to join the industry. 


Starting in construction is easy, and you can build your experience, contact Speedy Specialists today and find out more.



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