Construction : Opportunities abroad

If you want to work overseas, this is definitely an industry to consider. There is always construction going on in virtually every part of the world. While some countries have been affected by the economic climate, many still have an active construction market. 

The World Construction Network  website and e-bulletin give news of projects worldwide.

What are the chances of getting a job overseas?

There are many construction positions for which a foreign worker can apply, from craft work such as joinery, bricklaying, welding and plastering to more technical or experienced positions such as engineering or surveying.

Employers hiring workers for hands-on, labour-intensive jobs in construction abroad tend to look for work experience over qualifications. The choice and availability of work are improved by the amount of experience a candidate has.

There are many specialist recruitment agencies serving employers in several countries and large construction companies advertise vacancies abroad alongside UK vacancies. Voluntary sector projects, such as building dams, water and sewage infrastructure and green energy facilities, also require innovative construction workers.

Will my qualifications be recognised?

For skilled, technical or managerial positions, potential employers will consider your educational background. A degree in a construction-related subject improves your chances of landing a higher paid job abroad.

While there are no European-wide construction qualifications, UK qualifications and institutional membership or chartered status are widely accepted and respected by construction organisations throughout the world. While overseas companies tend to favour experienced graduates, many multinational and voluntary organisations take on more recently qualified graduates.

Where are the opportunities?

Major civil and structural engineering construction companies operate throughout the world, with many multinational firms having overseas branches in several countries. The World Market Intelligence quarterly reports from the World Construction Network give up-to-date information on construction developments in many countries.

The developing world provides opportunities due to population growth and tourism. New build projects include housing, commercial building and transport infrastructure.

Middle Eastern markets, such as Dubai, are not as buoyant as they were a few years ago, but there is still construction work to be had in residential property, infrastructure networks and facilities to attract tourism. Saudi Arabia has multibillion-dollar investment in housing, hospitals, commercial and oil sectors. A recent report showed that recruiters saw Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as the most attractive job markets in this region (Bayt.com Middle East Job Index, April 2011).

The success of India’s IT industry has led to a commercial, residential and retail construction boom to support the growing outsourcing and off-shoring of international business. Prospects are also bright in China’s infrastructure, power and house-build sectors.

The developed world maintains many types of projects including continuation, nuclear decommissioning and environmental work. Many of the industry’s biggest players have diversified into several areas. This gives them the flexibility and expertise to bid for business where the greatest demands are.