From general laboring to site engineers and managers there are many profitable roles in construction. Find out about how to enter the field, and what you can expect from a career in construction, below.
Types of Construction Jobs
There are so many roles in construction to choose from. However, it is worth noting that the route to your dream job will differ depending on your end goal. For example, if you are looking to be a quantity surveyor or architect choosing a bricklaying apprenticeship isn’t the best idea. This is because both roles require a higher-level university course as well as significant work experience.
Indeed, those wishing to become an architect can expect a 3-year university degree followed by a two-year HND, and a year of on-the-job experience before they can practice in their own right.
However, if you want to focus on the more practical trades such as carpentry, plumbing, or being an electrician an onsite apprenticeship may be a much better option. Although you can also expect some study, and exams to qualify in these areas as well.
Additionally, it is worth noting that there are plenty of entry-level positions available in the construction industry such as labouring or bricklaying. However, many people holding such positions do so as self-employed people. This means that work is not always consistent and they aren’t covered for paid holidays, something that it is important to consider before making your choice.
Health and Safety
Of course, no matter what type of construction jobs you are looking for you will need to be aware of the health and safety regulations. Indeed, health and safety are a big deal in construction, and it is vital to anyone considering the industry because it can help them minimise their risk of injury or even death.
Indeed, you will find that there are all sorts of specific health and safety training courses on offer, depending on the type of role you will be doing. For example, those operating heavy plant machinery like Cherry pickers or slinger signallers will need to complete the relevant CPCS training course and hold the card that allows them to work on-site.
However, before they can complete this card they will also need to get a cscs card, which demonstrates a basic level of health and safety knowledge. Indeed, it’s not only those that need to use Plant that must pass a successful cscs test but also anyone that wants to work on site. Therefore no matter what type of construction career you are hoping for, getting your CSCS is an excellent start.
PPE
Last of all if you want to begin a career in construction you will need to get used to wearing PPE. PPE or personal protective equipment is vital because it helps to minimise any safety risks or injury when it does occur.
Basic PPE that all those on a construction site will need to wear include steel-toe capped boots and a hard hat. You can also expect to wear items specific to your roles such as high-vis vests, goggles, and gloves. Sometimes a respirator or harness will also be necessary, although you should be given plenty of training on how to use this beforehand.
- DISCLOSURE – This post has been written by an outside source
