What’s the best way to find a new job in the UK? | Advice from EU experts

look at the best way to find a job in the UK.

Looking for a new job can be difficult, especially if you are looking for a new job in the UK when living in the EU.

Moving countries to obtain your dream career is possible when you have the support and know-how. At FBR we work with people who hail from various backgrounds and assist them in finding their dream career. 

Let’s look at the best way to find a job in the UK.

UK jobs boards

There are many UK jobs boards out there that you can use to apply for a job in the UK. Make sure you know the requirements for applying for a role, as well as your own personal requirements. This can be anything from location, to salary and more. 

With jobs boards, you will need to check as often as you have time for. This means you will need to invest plenty of time in order to find and apply for jobs that are relevant to your skills and requirements.

UK Recruitment agents

Another great way to find a new job in the UK is via a recruitment agency. Using a recruitment agency will mean you have the expertise of the agent at your disposal. From interview preparation, to assistance with paperwork and more; a recruitment agency can help.

Additionally, a recruitment agency will be able to contact you as soon as you are in their database. This means that any new roles that come up where you fit the bill; you will be informed and have the opportunity to apply. 

A recruitment agency can also advocate for you. Finding a new job in the UK when you are yet to move can be a challenge. Working with a recruitment agency to find a new job can ensure that they can help promote your skills and experience to a potential employer.

What you need as an EU citizen to work in the UK 

Are you ready to take your career to the next level and work in the UK? As an EU citizen, there are a few things you’ll need to know before you make the move. First things first, you’ll need to make sure you have the proper documentation, such as a valid passport or national ID card. 

You’ll also need to apply for settled or pre-settled status, which will allow you to continue working and living in the UK after Brexit. But don’t worry, the application process is simple and can be completed online. 

Once you have all of the necessary documentation, you’ll be ready to embark on a new and exciting career journey in the UK. Start exploring your options and take the first step towards your dream job today.

Beneficial skills for working in the UK

Beyond the qualifications for whichever career path you have chosen there are a few skills that are beneficial to have before you come to the UK.

English 

Ideally, you need to have a good level of English if you want to work in the UK. While British people are very accommodating to those learning the language; with everything being communicated in English the more you know the better. 

Driving licence

Having a driving licence is another beneficial skill to have. This will open up your options when looking for roles from location, to additional jobs you may be able to apply for. 

Having an expert in UK recruitment can make your transition to finding a job in the UK easier. Our team of EU experts will help you every step of the way, from paperwork to interview prep. Contact us today to find your dream UK job. 



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Is it too old to train to become a quantity surveyor at 30?

become a quantity surveyor

Looking to change careers can be daunting, but when is it too old to become a quantity surveyor? 

At FBR, we have found placements for people across all walks of life. From those who have been in the industry for decades, to those who are starting out or changing careers. We believe that you are never too old to change careers, your route into the industry might look different to those who have been working since they were 16. 

As all industries evolve, it is important to embrace change and with that new perspectives from people joining the field after a different career can be extremely beneficial. Let’s look at what it takes to become a successful quantity surveyor at 30, or beyond. 

How to become a quantity surveyor while working

If you’re looking to become a quantity surveyor, you’re in luck, let’s look at the different ways you can become a quantity surveyor at 30.

There are various pathways to take that will lead you towards your dream career. One route is to start with an apprenticeship or traineeship within the construction industry, where you’ll work alongside experienced professionals and learn from the ground up. 

Another option is to obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field, such as construction management, construction engineering or surveying. You may also consider completing a diploma or certificate in quantity surveying, which will provide you with valuable knowledge and skills needed for the job. There are many online courses or night classes you could look at to ensure that you maintain your income while obtaining your certificate.

A final option is to gain experience in another industry that utilises similar skills and knowledge, such as accounting or engineering, and transition into quantity surveying. Whatever path you choose, becoming a quantity surveyor can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice.

What are the main roles and responsibilities of a quantity surveyor?

When it comes to the construction industry, a quantity surveyor is a crucial part of the team. But what exactly do they do? 

A quantity surveyor has a wide range of responsibilities that are integrally linked to the smooth running of the project. They are responsible for managing the budget, estimating costs, overseeing sub-contractors, and ensuring the project is delivered on time and to a high standard. 

In addition to those tasks a good quantity surveyor will be able to advise on alternative materials and designs that could save money without compromising on quality. They are like the project’s financial guardian, keeping things on track and making sure the client gets the best value for their money. 

A quantity surveyor has a role that requires a combination of technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and great people skills. Overall, the quantity surveyor is a vital member of any construction team, and their contributions are key to the project’s success.

What are the transferable skills that can be used in quantity surveying?

There are many skills that can be transferred to the role of a quantity surveyor.

Quantity surveyors need to be good with numbers and costs. You should have the ability to manage costs and analyse data, and be an exceptional problem solver, which is crucial in many industries. 

Communication is also a vital skill that you need to possess, as you will regularly interact with contractors, clients, and other stakeholders as a quantity surveyor. 

Having attention to detail that is unmatched is key, this skill requires careful analysis and interpretation. Furthermore, you will need to have time management skills and ability to work under pressure to allow you to complete projects within tight deadlines. 

With these skills, you are not only an asset to the construction and engineering fields, but you can also thrive in this industry. 

No matter your age, if you are looking for a new career there are many opportunities for you. Find the way that works best for you and your situation.

Speak to our team to find your next role in quantity surveying. 



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What your recruitment agent should do to help you prep for your interview | Construction interview prep

What your recruitment agent should do to help you prep for your interview

What can recruiters do to help you prepare for an interview in construction? 

Let’s be honest, interviews can be awful. It might be bold of us to say but it’s true, and unfortunately many in our industry like to cover it up. However, what we want to do instead is support you in your interview journey and help make the process easier. After all, that’s what we signed up for as a recruitment agency. We stick by our word when we say we want you to find the best job that suits your skills and ethics. 

Now, part of what we do is help give you the tools to prepare for your interview in any industry but let’s look at construction interview prep. Before we get started there are a few things to note:

1:  We can give you the tools and support you need but we can’t do the interview for you.

2: You will need to put in some work yourself in order to prepare for an interview. 

Now that’s clear, let’s get into construction interview prep!

How to prepare for an interview 

Here is a list of a few key things you will need to do in order to prepare for an interview. Of course speak with your recruiter if you have any questions, but these are things that are typically done independently.

Research the company

One of the most important things you can do is research the company you are having an interview with. Find out what construction projects have been done, how they work, and who they are. This will form the foundation of the next construction interview prep work.

Write your questions down

Next you want to start writing down some questions you want to ask. Think about what you want to know about the company and the role. If you are stuck for questions and don’t know where to start, we have some interview questions you can use to help get you started.

Check your memberships

For many roles in construction you may be required to have certain memberships and qualifications which need to be renewed. Check them before the interview and make sure they are all up to date. Think about your health and safety memberships, CSCS cards, and any licence you might have that need to be renewed or updated. 

How a recruitment agent will help you prepare for an interview

There are a couple of ways a recruiter can help you prepare for your construction role interview. Such as:

Provide feedback 

Recruiters understand and know what the company is looking for, this means that we can provide you with valuable information and feedback relating to your application and own prepwork. 

Highlight missing information

Recruiters should be able to highlight any missing information, whether that is from your application or additional information that is needed to round out your file.

Assist with questions and prep

In recruitment, we know what questions to ask and what can be asked in an interview. Our recruiters can help guide you through this process and help you anticipate what you may be asked during your interview. We are also able to highlight things that shouldn’t be approached, such as questions which can lead to discrimination or other HR nightmares. 

In recruitment we work to ensure that the role that is being advertised is as detailed as possible. We will ensure that you are applying for the right role as well as getting the best offer possible, whether that is negotiating salary and more. 

Here at FBR you can trust our recruitment experts to have your interests at the forefront of our decision making process. Contact our team to see how we can help you find the perfect role for you.



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What is the function of general manager civil construction?

functions of a general manager in civil construction may vary

Civil construction is a huge industry, from the creation of infrastructure to managing water and landscapes; a general manager in civil construction has a lot of responsibilities. 

Like any job role, knowing what to expect is essential. Whether you have experience in other areas of civil construction or are looking to move up the career ladder; understanding your role and responsibilities will help you be the best you can be. 

While some functions of a general manager in civil construction may vary depending on the section of civil construction, or even the company itself. Here at FBR, we work to ensure that we provide as much information relating to any job role within our industry. 

Here is a general overview of what you can expect to find within the functions of a general manager in civil construction.

General manager in civil construction job description

Construction General Managers are the chief players in the game of building. They are there from the beginning, guiding the project through pre-construction and working alongside the design architect. Keeping the budget on track and sticking to a timeline falls under their remit. In the execution phase, Construction Managers team up with onsite managers for a close-up view of the ongoing project.

As the Construction General Manager, your varied responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Overseeing construction projects from start to stop
  • Conducting a thorough review to schedule deliverables and estimate costs
  • Watching over all onsite and offsite constructions; quality and safety are topmost priorities!

Ultimately general managers in civil construction advise project owners and lead the team of builders, including the general contractor. From keeping schedules on track, to finances in view, and ensuring that everyone is performing their best- a construction manager is a true jack-of-all-trades!

Salary insights 

Like all roles, salary can vary depending on your location. As a recruitment agency, we always work to ensure that salaries are competitive with the local market. Not only do we check the local markets, we also check that prospective employees are going to receive a salary that is appropriate for the role and relevant experience. 

General manager civil engineering salary by location

Location can dictate the salary, below are some average location based salaries for a general manager within civil construction. 

London: £61,271 per year 

Manchester: £53,218 per year

Birmingham: £54,001 per year
Hampshire: £55,000 per year

Qualifications for general managers in civil construction

So now you know what you might be doing or what is expected of you. You also have a rough idea on what kind of salary you can expect, but what about qualifications? 

Like many roles, qualifications are necessary in order to be considered for a position. Some of these may not be necessary, but they may increase your chances of claiming a role or even a higher salary. 

Necessary qualifications for a general manager in civil construction:

Essential qualifications are a high school education and one of the following qualifications:

  • Certificate in site management level 6 
  • Higher national certificate in Construction
  • Higher national diploma in construction management
  • Degree in construction management

You may decide to go down the route of an apprenticeship to obtain one of the above qualifications. 

Nice to have qualifications as a general manager in civil construction:

Like all roles and industries additional qualifications can always be beneficial. For example:

  • NEBOSH certified 
  • Health and safety qualifications
  • First aid

If you are looking for a role in civil construction as a general manager, speak to our expert recruitment agents. 



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Recruitment statistics – what’s the truth on the current job market

get down to the truth about the current job market

We’ve all been there, confused between what is fact and fiction when it comes to recruitment statistics. The truth is that the job market is fiercely competitive, and these statistics and figures change on a daily basis. 

We often hear about the negatives, how there aren’t any jobs for people and other comments. However, this isn’t the case. Many industries are struggling to recruit, this is due to the fact that they need such a high volume of workers. 

But enough about these vague notions and comments, let’s get down to the truth about the current job market and what you can do as a candidate to make the most of it.

What is the current UK employment rate?

According to statistics between the ages of 16 – 64 the current employment rate is around 75.8%. The unemployment rate is at a low of 3.8%, so where are the missing numbers? 

We have to factor in that some people are retired before the age of 64, as well as there are some who are unable to work due to health reasons. 

What is the current number of job vacancies? 

In the first three months of 2023, there were 47,000 fewer job openings than the previous quarter. It’s become a bit of a pattern, with a nine-quarter streak of falling vacancies, showing just how uncertain different industries have been. Survey respondents have cited economic pressures as a key factor in declining recruitment.

However, this isn’t a sure sign that everything is going down. After the unease last year relating to increasing interest rates and general banking uncertainty, many employers may have held back during the first quarter of the year. 

What was the growth in salary?

So, let’s break it down. From December 2022 to February 2023, there was a 5.9% increase in an employee’s overall pay, including bonuses, while regular pay growth (excluding bonuses) was 6.6%. 

The private sector saw average regular pay growth of 6.9% during the same period, compared to 5.3% for the public sector. Recently, the gap between these two sectors’ growth rates has narrowed. But that’s not all. When we factor in inflation, real growth in total and regular pay decreased in the year from December 2022 to February 2023. In fact, real total pay fell by 3.0%, which is the largest drop since 2009. 

Because of this employers and recruiters are seeing more “job hopping” than before. It is widely known that one of the ways people have increased their salary is by moving into new job roles. Use that knowledge to your own advantage. 

What does this mean for you?

While some of these numbers might not paint a particularly bright picture, we must remember that these results are only from the first quarter. This period of the year was extremely turbulent for many industries for many different reasons. 

What you can do as a potential candidate is look at these numbers and look at the opportunities you have available. Leveraging salary insights is one way you can ensure to get paid what is expected. A recruitment agent will be there to help ensure you are getting a competitive salary for your role. 

Not only can you use these figures to help benefit your income, but you can also look for ways to upskill and improve. This will make you more valuable as an employee or prospective candidate. 

There is always more to the story than meets the eye, don’t let a small snapshot of a constantly changing market affect your perception. Businesses are recruiting and they want the best talent. 

Speak to our experts today to start a conversation about your next career opportunity.

**All statistics were obtained from the Office for National Statistics and were correct at the time of writing.

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Reasons why you should work in construction

those of you who are lost in your job hunting, reasons why you should work in construction

While it isn’t always our place to say anyone should work in any industry, that doesn’t mean we don’t have opinions on why you should work in construction. 

Every industry is different, and when looking for a job whether you are just starting out or looking to swap careers. It can be confusing and complicated. But that is why we think we should give those of you who are lost in your job hunting, reasons why you should work in construction. 

At FBR we work to recruit many roles across the country, in particular for construction companies. We believe that we have it on good authority to offer potential job seekers some good reasons as to why you should work in construction. 

Project based work

Construction work is project based. This means that no two jobs will be the same as the other. While some of the tasks will be similar, your approach may be entirely different. Project based work offers you the opportunity to really dig into the details of your craft and requires you to know your role inside out. 

Essentially you get to truly understand a product and think creatively about potential solutions to problems. This is great for those of you who get bored doing the same task over and over again. 

Always need construction workers

As the population grows and industries grow we will always need people to work in construction. While the increase in technology may change and evolve how a construction worker carries out a job task, it will always be needed to have someone at ground level and above. 

From residential construction to private construction projects, there will always be a need for people within and around the construction industry. 

Working outdoors

For many the idea of being tied to a desk is the worst thing they can think of. That’s why those who need a more active role should work in construction. No location will be the same which means you get to experience all aspects of outdoor working. 

Team environment

Working in construction is a complete team effort. From brick layers, project managers, and site plotters. Each and every role is essential in the construction project process, you work collaboratively with many different people.

Satisfying results

Seeing the project go from ground zero through each of the phases is extremely satisfying. Knowing you were part of the team that created the end result is very gratifying for many who work. Especially since many buildings and other aspects of construction last a lifetime. 

Imagine every day walking past a project you worked on and it still being there years later. There aren’t many roles which have the same impact on everyday life as construction workers. 

There are many reasons why you should work in construction, and we have only listed a few. From working with people in a dynamic and fast paced environment, construction work has it all. 

If you are looking to get into construction work speak to our expert recruitment consultants. Our team at FBR is dedicated to finding the right role for the right person. View our jobs board for active roles, or speak to our agents today.



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Construction recruitment cover letters | Are cover letters still relevant?

look at construction recruitment cover letters in a little more detail

Are construction recruitment cover letters still relevant? A cover letter is a thing that has been around as long as a CV, if not longer. With the introduction of the internet and online applications, the value of a cover letter seems to have been lost over modern times. 

So what is the point of a cover letter and are construction recruitment cover letters still used today? 

At FBR we work to provide honest advice about the world of recruiting, whether you are looking for a new role or a company looking to hire talented people; FBR is here for just that.

From our perspective, there are pros and cons of having a cover letter. For a candidate, it’s just another thing to complete and write, which isn’t always the easiest task for some. On the other hand, when done correctly it can be used for more than just an introduction. You can showcase your skills and talent in a way that a CV can’t always.  

But let’s look at construction recruitment cover letters in a little more detail.

What are cover letters used for?

A cover letter has traditionally been used as an introduction. Sending your CV to a company without an introduction was and is still considered poor etiquette. It would be like meeting someone and not shaking their hand or giving them your name, sounds pretty rude right?

So the point of a cover letter was to introduce yourself and provide a more informal view of you as a potential candidate. Cover letters are used to grab the attention of the hiring manager or recruiter and make them want to read your CV which is more prescriptive.

Why should you write a cover letter for construction roles?

Ultimately having a cover letter can come in handy, even if a company or recruiter doesn’t request one it’s simply nice to have. It’s one of those tasks that while the market still is unsure whether cover letters are relevant; it’s best to have the bases covered and have it to hand.

For those applications which don’t require a cover letter then you don’t need to send it. However, some job applications may require you to fill in a short bio. This means your pre-prepared cover letter will come in handy as you can use some of that information to help create your bio. 

Additionally, cover letters for construction roles can provide you the opportunity to talk about specific projects you’ve been involved in. It gives you the chance to really go into more detail about your passions in the industry and showcase who you are.

What to include on a cover letter for construction roles

Now we’ve looked at cover letters and if they are still relevant. Let’s look at what to include in one, let’s be honest we can’t all be the next Stephen King or Tolkien. But that’s not what a cover letter is all about. 

A cover letter is an extension of you and who you are, so King or Tolkien can’t write that. Plus, a cover letter can be boiled down to the following ingredients. 

Introduction

This is when you introduce yourself; the basics really. You can keep it short and sweet, no need to go into family history. Imagine you are talking to a person when writing your cover letter. For example;

Dear [insert recruiter/hiring manager name]

My name is [insert your name], I found your job listing for [insert job title] and thought I’d be a great match. I have [insert relevant experience] and currently work in [job role].

Expand 

Now you’ve introduced yourself and what your intention is, you need to expand on this. What makes you different, how has working in the industry impacted your career, what is it you love? This is one of the harder parts of writing a cover letter as you need to showcase your enthusiasm and emotion in this section. 

Be sure to include any specific skills which can be transferred into the role you are applying for. Whether this is from hobbies or past experiences. Things that don’t belong on a CV but would be great for the potential employer to know about you. 

Conclude

Once you have expanded on your cover letter now you need to tie it up with a conclusion. This is where you thank the hiring manager for their time, reiterate your interest and attach your CV for consideration. 

 

Always be respectful when writing any correspondence and don’t forget to include your email and mobile number after you have signed it off. It should look something like this:

 

Thank you for the time and consideration, I enclose a copy of my CV and hope to hear from you soon. Should you have any questions regarding my application please do not hesitate to contact me

Kind regards,

[full name]

[email address]

[phone number]

So there you have the basics of a cover letter. Another tip from us is to run it through some online grammar checkers, there are plenty of free tools available. Once you have been through and edited your cover letter you can then ask a close friend to read over it. Additionally, you may wish to seek advice from your recruitment agent, we see cover letters daily and know what makes potential employees stand out. 

Ultimately, having a construction recruitment cover letter will be useful for any application you make. Whether it is used for the full purpose of a cover letter, or broken down into a bio for your application or not at all. A cover letter can still make the difference in getting your CV noticed by employers and recruitment agents alike. 

The cover letter isn’t going anywhere any time soon, so make sure to work on yours to the best of your ability. 

If you are looking for a new job in construction, view our jobs board today. Our consultants are available to help you find the right job at the right company. 


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Will the demand for quantity surveying rise or die in 2025?

Demand for quantity surveying can change and evolve year on year

Demand for quantity surveying can change and evolve year on year. As the construction industry changes so too will the landscape of quantity surveying. The role of a quantity surveyor is essential for many reasons.

Quantity surveying is a profession that assists in the pre-construction, construction, and post-construction phases of a building project. They provide cost management advice by calculating exact costs for materials and labour, as well as helping to negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors. Quantity surveyors will also use their expertise to minimise risks associated with a construction project.

What is the typical demand for quantity surveying?

Quantity surveying is a key factor in the construction process, and its demand is currently flourishing due to the expanding growth of the building industry and our society’s mounting requirements.

As demand is high, so too is the need for businesses to recruit the right talent for the role. Understanding the role of a quantity surveyor is essential. Knowing the scope of responsibilities as well as the benefits enables construction companies to hire the right people. Working with a recruiter who understands the demand and skills necessary for this role is important.

How useful is quantity surveying?

Quantity surveying has a host of advantages that make it an invaluable tool for any project. Not only does quantity surveying help to decrease the cost and maximise profits, but its use also guarantees quality control is maintained throughout construction. It facilitates budgeting, scheduling and dispute resolution between contractors and clients alike – making sure all parties can come away satisfied with the results.

How will quantity surveying evolve?

As the construction industry continues to evolve, so too will the role of quantity surveying. This will likely involve more emphasis on digital and software solutions for project management and cost control, as well as a greater focus on collaboration between multiple stakeholders involved in a construction project.

Additionally, with an increased emphasis on sustainability and green building practices, quantity surveyors will need to be knowledgeable about the latest energy-efficient materials and technologies. Read our blog on how going green can actually increase construction jobs.

Overall, the demand for quantity surveying is likely to remain high in the years ahead as it plays a critical role in helping construction projects run smoothly and efficiently; while also protecting against risks and ensuring quality standards are met. With new technologies and practices emerging in the construction industry, quantity surveyors will need to stay up to date in order to remain relevant and valuable. Being stuck in the past will only result in a lack of growth for those who are unable to move forwards and advance their roles.

Here at FBR, we work with many construction businesses to find the right talent for you. Working directly in the industry allows us to accurately match the right candidate for the right role. Our team is dedicated to quality, we understand the importance of regulations within the construction industry, which is why we pre-vet out candidates to ensure they have the relevant qualifications necessary. Contact our team today to see how we can help you grow your team and recruit the best talent.


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What construction jobs are there?

different types of construction jobs

The construction industry is huge and contains many different types of jobs. As recruiters in the construction industry, we often find ourselves being asked by candidates “What construction jobs are there?” 

The interesting answer to this question is simple; all types of construction jobs. A construction company requires many different types of skills and people to keep the company running smoothly. 

Construction jobs aren’t just limited to labourers and on-site construction workers. There are many other different types of construction roles that need to be filled. Let’s look at the different types of construction jobs that are available for those who are interested in working in construction. 

Office based construction jobs

While the most common jobs relating to construction are onsite roles, there are also office based roles directly related to construction work. For the sake of simplicity, we will not cover more standard roles such as HR and accounts; while a construction company may require those roles, they aren’t directly involved in construction work. 

CAD designer 

CAD designers or often referred to as CAD draughtsman are responsible for creating the outlines and blueprints of a project. They will be required to go onsite to collect the relevant data and information they need to complete their drawings and outlines. However, once the information is collected they will need access to specific software to create the plans. 

Contracts manager

Contract managers are required to organise and prepare contracts for work to be carried out. This can be from organising the contract for additional labour, hiring required equipment, and more. They will ensure that each contract is carried out as smoothly as possible as well as chase up any enquiries relating to a project. They will work closely with the project manager and help with any additional tasks the project manager needs. 

On site construction jobs

On site construction jobs are probably the most known construction roles. These job roles are essential to the work being carried out and require training as well as additional health and safety qualifications. 

Labourers

Labourers are an essential role for all construction companies. Without labourers, construction work wouldn’t be carried out on many projects. From building foundations to organising the materials on site, no day is identical. Labourers are integral to construction work.

Site managers 

Site managers are responsible for ensuring that everything runs smoothly on-site. From organising the construction crew to consulting with the project manager and contracts manager. Site managers keep the construction site organised and working efficiently. 

Hybrid construction job roles

Beyond on-site construction roles and office based construction roles, there are some roles in construction which will be a mix of the two. This means you will spend time on site as well as off site.

Project managers 

Project managers are the definition of hybrid construction roles. Their time is split between being on-site managing the project overall and meeting with the site manager and clients prospectively. 

They also spend part of their time in meetings and in the office discussing and managing further aspects of the project from finances to contracts and more. Project managers ensure that construction projects are run efficiently and smoothly from start to finish at the top level down. 

Understanding each role within the construction industry can help you decide which career path to take. There are a wide range of roles in the construction industry and this blog only covers the most well-known jobs. For more information on jobs within the construction industry view our jobs board.

Contact the team at FBR if you are looking for a new role in the construction industry. 


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What qualifications are there in the construction industry | Construction qualification break down

Construction qualifications can be confusing for many people. There are many roles within construction and understanding what qualifications you need can seem complex

Construction qualifications can be confusing for many people. There are many roles within construction and understanding what qualifications you need can seem complex. This can be due to the fact that some roles may not require a specific qualification related to that field of construction work and only a more general construction degree. 

The construction industry is responsible for the way our society works, the residential areas we have, roads and highways, as well as other factors in our lives. The UK wouldn’t be as it is without vital construction workers. It is for this reason alone that having the right qualifications for your role is essential to providing safe working conditions and results. 

What construction qualifications are there 

Depending on the job you are looking for there are different types of qualifications that you may need. Each section of construction has its own qualification, such as;

  • Carpentry
  • Bricklaying
  • Plastering 
  • Property maintenance 
  • Plant operations 
  • Roofing 
  • Civil engineering
  • Canals and waterways (Heritage)

Your way into each of these industries in construction can vary. For many, the option to attend college is the first choice. There are a variety of colleges that offer qualifications in any of the above specialities in construction.

Other alternatives are apprenticeship programs which are offered by various awarding bodies. Your employer or potential employer will be able to talk you through your choice of apprenticeship, as well as the position which works for the company.

Qualification providers such as City and Guilds, and CIBT, among others are common providers within the industry.

What additional qualifications are useful in the construction industry

Bolstering up your qualifications and certificates is always a bonus for any construction worker. Additional qualifications can be extremely beneficial such as;

  • Health and safety certificates
  • First aid certificates
  • CSCS cards 
  • Forklift truck licences 

These additional qualifications are a bonus, unless your role specifies the need for these certifications. 

What job roles require specific qualifications

While there are many qualifications that construction workers can obtain for their specific discipline. Not all construction roles require specific qualifications, although they are beneficial to your career progression. 

These are a few of the construction jobs which require specific qualifications in order to work within the role:

  • Arbitrator
  • Building surveys
  • Site engineer 
  • Building engineer
  • Quantity surveyors
  • Estimator 
  • Construction manager 

There are many different routes into construction work, depending on the role you are looking at your way into that position may be different. Understanding the essential qualifications you need in order to obtain that job role is key. 

Adding additional qualifications to help support your career progression is always going to be beneficial. Many construction companies encourage additional training as it offers great benefits to the company and industry as a whole. 

Working with a recruitment agency that understands the construction industry is essential. Our recruitment agents have vast experience within the industry and will be able to help you understand the qualifications you need for your dream role. Contact our recruitment team today to see how we can help you achieve your perfect job in construction. Or view our jobs board for our current vacancies. 


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