Construction : Entry and progression

How do I find a job?

Jobs are advertised in local and national press, specialist construction publications, recruitment fairs and networking events. Websites of professional bodies, public sector organisations and construction firms are also an essential source of vacancies.

Larger graduate recruiters tend to use online applications, while smaller ones usually ask for a CV and covering letter. Speculative applications for lower-level positions are common, although most senior or professional posts are advertised.

Graduate, apprentice and management training schemes remain common despite the uncertain economic climate. Intakes for graduate schemes are typically in the autumn and spring, although many national and international organisations recruit all year round.

Fixed-term contracts, short-term placements and temporary work through agencies are useful entry points, especially in a depressed economic market where employers are reluctant to recruit permanent staff.

Private sector new build was affected most by the recession, but with ongoing public sector cuts the balance may shift as programmes for building new schools and social housing are postponed. Nevertheless, there are still opportunities in all areas of the industry, including repairs and maintenance, refurbishment and infrastructure projects such as Crossrail and the Forth replacement bridge. Repairs and refurbishment sound less glamorous than new build, but those services are twice as labour intensive as new construction projects (Construction Skills Network, 2011).

Find out more about job application advice.

What skills do I need?

Employers expect sound technical knowledge in a relevant degree, typically with a minimum grade of 2:2. Some larger employers ask for a 2:1 minimum and some also request minimum A-level grades.

It is possible to enter the profession at any level and advance to senior positions after gaining experience and qualifications. Some craft or operational jobs may not require entry qualifications.

In addition to academic requirements, graduate recruiters in construction look for:

• planning, organisation and management skills;
• communication and interpersonal skills;
• analytical ability;
• creative problem-solving;
• up-to-date knowledge of relevant technology;
• commercial awareness;
• good IT skills;
• ability to interpret maps, plans and graphs;
• teamwork and leadership skills;
• strong motivation to succeed when confronted with challenges;
• technical skills.

Many academic courses develop these attributes, but there are other ways to gain them. Work experience, especially that gained during an industry placement, involvement in student clubs/societies, student newspapers, events organisation or course and halls committees, may develop useful skills.

Where can I find work experience?

Employers value work experience across all levels and job roles. Many graduates gain experience through industrial placements or similar work experience with a construction employer. Successful placements may lead to a conditional job offer.

If your degree does not offer a sandwich year, it is even more important to apply for vacation work experience. This shows potential employers evidence of initiative, commitment and enthusiasm - attractive attributes for a construction recruiter.

Temporary and voluntary positions are useful, although these are rarely advertised and may require speculative letters, applications, and networking. Some construction companies advertise gap year opportunities on their websites. Specialist agencies such as the Year Out Group  and The Year in Industry  have details of gap year organisations and companies. IAESTE UK , an international work experience scheme for student scientists, engineers and architects, offers challenging vacation placements overseas.

Is postgraduate study useful?

Whilst postgraduate study is not usually essential to enter most jobs in this sector, in a competitive jobs market it is certainly useful. The industry supports further study whilst working and good employers provide opportunities to work towards professional status, awarded by an institution.

Acquiring professional status usually takes two years of working and studying and requires verified achievement of specific competencies within the area of work. The process typically involves keeping a log of experiences and a final interview and/or presentation.

How can my career develop?

Gaining chartered membership of the appropriate institution and undertaking agreed levels of continuing professional development (CPD) is a key part of career development, enabling progression to more senior posts. Most employers fully support graduates during this process through mentoring, training courses and graduate networking events. Bigger companies usually offer tailored career pathways.

Promotion often depends on gaining professional qualifications and appropriate practical experience. This can also lead to opportunities to move to a larger organisation or to seek employment internationally.

Other career paths include university lecturing, research and development roles or consultancy, which can provide scope for development of personal interests. There are also many opportunities for employment overseas.