Tag Archive for: recruitment

How do you think AI will be integrated with blue collar jobs?

How do you think AI will be integrated with blue collar jobs?
Artificial intelligence is making waves across all industries. Understanding how artificial intelligence will affect your blue-collar job is essential. But it’s not the robot uprising many will have you believe. Artificial intelligence can actually make your blue-collar jobs easier and better for your working life.

As the world of construction is constantly evolving, so will technology. Embracing the advancements can prove extremely beneficial for many reasons. Here at FBR, we understand how these advancements can impact jobs and the construction industry. So let’s look into this topic and see how it can affect blue-collar jobs in construction.

What is a blue-collar job?

A blue-collar job is a manual labour position in industry or manufacturing. It typically requires little to no formal education and training. However, there are now many recognised qualifications and safety courses that are required by many employers.

The term “blue collar” was first used in reference to workers in the early 20th century. At that time, many manual jobs were performed by workers who wore blue denim or chambray shirts. Nowadays, blue-collar jobs are still mostly in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. But the term has also come to encompass a wide range of other types of work, including:

  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Warehousing
  • Agriculture
  • Mining

Blue-collar jobs are typically defined as manual labour positions. However, they are still extremely important roles within the wider community.

How do you get a blue-collar job?

There are many ways to get a blue-collar job. You can apply directly to companies that hire for these positions, look for job postings online, or go through a staffing agency that connects workers with manufacturers and other industrial businesses.

At FBR, we specialise in finding the right job for the right person, our experience in recruiting for the construction industry puts us at an advantage. We understand the intricacies that revolve around the construction industry and so are perfectly positioned to help you find the right role.

How is artificial intelligence being integrated with blue-collar jobs?

AI is changing the landscape of blue-collar work. Machines are becoming increasingly capable of performing the tasks that have traditionally been done by human workers. This has the potential to increase efficiency and productivity in the workplace while reducing the need for human labour.

Will AI take my job?

It’s a common concern when the talk of Artificial intelligence becomes more common in the workplace. It’s unlikely that AI will completely replace human workers in the near future. Thinking back to the days before calculators, we used to work out figures with a pen and paper. Now we have a calculator to do it for us. Something that was part of our every day was replaced by technology. However, it is likely that AI will change the nature of blue-collar work. Machines will increasingly be used to perform tasks that are currently done by human workers. This could lead to a reduction in the number of jobs available for human workers in those roles. However, this doesn’t mean all is lost. It simply means your work will evolve and move with the technology that is being introduced.

FBR is an extremely experienced recruitment agency based in Hampshire. Our team has vast amounts of experience recruiting for the construction industry. Our focus on finding the right person for the right role is essential for a fast-paced and evolving industry such as construction. Our dedicated EU recruitment specialists can assist you through the whole recruitment process. Contact us now to find the right role and talent.

How can going green create more construction jobs?

How can going green create more construction jobs?

With a focus on businesses improving their carbon footprint and the effect they have on the environment, it is no wonder that construction companies are also looking at ways to go green. Companies that invest in environmentally friendly processes not only reduce their environmental impact but also improve employee satisfaction.

Why are we at FBR recruitment talking about construction companies going green you may ask? It is important to us as a recruitment agency to ensure that our clients and potential clients position themselves in the best way possible. This means looking at what will help them grow and be able to claim that all important star talent.

Why construction companies should switch to greener materials

One of the key components of creating an environment-friendly process is to replace hazardous materials with renewable and recyclable alternatives like wood or bamboo products.

By doing this, construction companies can ensure that they are not introducing new pollutants into the environment. Additionally, these materials can often be cheaper than their traditional counterparts and require less energy to produce. This cost-saving measure can help businesses allocate funds to other green initiatives such as solar or wind power.

Creation of environmentally friendly products

With construction companies making the change to greener resources and materials they are adding to the demand which in turn creates more job opportunities for other businesses. As well as specialised construction workers who understand the material and how to install it.

The use of renewable building materials also has the potential to create more jobs in the construction industry. By switching from using traditional materials to using more eco-friendly ones, construction companies can create jobs for woodworkers and other craftspeople who can help produce these materials. This could provide a much-needed boost to the economy while also helping to reduce environmental impact.

How environmentally friendly processes improve work satisfaction

Finally, improving environmental processes can have positive impacts on employee morale. By demonstrating that they are taking steps to be more sustainable, companies can show their workers that they care about the environment and are committed to leaving a positive legacy.

This can help improve job satisfaction, as employees know that they are working for an organisation that is making an effort to reduce its environmental impact. This is becoming a key point among younger generations when they are looking for jobs. The environment and how we work to protect it are important to young workers and so they want to be part of the change to improve.

Ensuring you capture key talent is important to building your business. Having the right people on the job who are able to help your business grow and flourish will ultimately help create more construction jobs as your business demand increases.

Creating environmentally friendly processes in construction not only helps reduce environmental damage but also has positive impacts on the economy and job satisfaction. Investing in green initiatives can help businesses save money, create new jobs, and provide their employees with a better work environment. By taking steps towards becoming more sustainable, construction companies can ensure that they are leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

Here at FBR recruitment, we work with businesses across the construction industry to find star talent. Our team of expert recruiters is skilled at finding the right people for the right job. With the construction industry ever evolving it is essential for businesses to have the right recruitment agency working with them. Contact our team today to help you find the right employee.

Look for entry level jobs in Civil Engineering

Look for entry level jobs in Civil Engineering
Whether you’re looking to start your career or want to change your career, entry level jobs are the key to unlocking your potential. In today’s current working climate it isn’t only necessary to have the qualifications to obtain a role, but also experience. Entry level jobs are essential to gaining that experience.

There are many entry level jobs within civil engineering. It all depends on the skills you have and what works for you. Let’s look into entry level jobs in civil engineering in detail.

What is civil engineering?

Civil engineering is a part of engineering that focuses entirely on design and maintenance of public builds and structures such as bridges, roads, dams, and various buildings.

It is a key part of the construction industry and what makes the world as we know it what it is. Without civil engineering we wouldn’t have the infrastructure necessary to evolve and move with technology and mechanics.

What are entry level jobs in civil engineering?

Civil engineering jobs are varied and so there are many different entry level jobs into the industry. Depending on the area you want to work in, the entry level job may vary along with salary, qualification requirements, as well as demand.

Some civil engineering entry level jobs are:

Entry level Transportation Engineer

This role focuses on transportation and infrastructure. You will need to have a degree in Civil Engineering as well as an interest in transportation design.

There will be various programs you would need to have experience in and each role will detail the specific skills and qualifications needed.

Junior Quantity Surveyor

The role of a junior quantity surveyor is essential in many different ways. You will be preparing build costs, procurement, contract administration as well as other administrative duties.

This role can have various requirements for qualifications. There are many soft skills required in this role such as: Attention to detail, highly motivated, and people skills.

Coastal Engineer – Coastal and Flood Risk

The role of a coastal and flood risk engineer is essential to helping plan and prepare flood risk locations. From planning, appraisal and design.

A coastal and flood risk engineer will be required to assist in research and support projects, analyse data, as well as design and coordination of rivers, wetlands and coastal habitat restoration.

Degrees in engineering and Coastal engineering or related discipline is essential for these types of civil engineering entry level positions.

As you can see the civil engineering entry level roles are varied. From project management, to planning and design, down to engineering. One key variable to consider is to look for a field of Civil Engineering that interests you.

How do I find an entry level job in civil engineering?

Finding entry level jobs in civil engineering can seem like a daunting task. However, working with the right recruitment agency can help make your job search easier.

Here at FBR, we work with you to find the right role that works for you. Finding your passion and continuing to pursue it is essential for complete career enjoyment. Our recruitment agents have extensive experience within the construction industry and as such we understand the requirements construction and civil engineering companies are looking for.

Visit our Jobs Board for more information on current roles. Or speak with our recruitment agents for more information.

Read about the role of a Construction Project Manager

Read about the role of a Construction Project Manager
A construction project manager is an important role in all construction projects. Having someone who understands each phase of the project and is actively involved in ensuring it is on budget and completed within the deadline is a necessity.

Construction project management requires a few key skills, knowledge of construction sites. This will ensure that the project is run safely. Leadership skills, to help keep the team on track with the necessary tasks. Attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

This role is suited to those with a can-do attitude and high amounts of persistence and determination. Here at FBR, we believe that when you understand what is required of you in a job, only then can you shine and make the right decisions. For more details on a Construction Project Manager Job Description and Salary read our blog.

Why do construction projects need a project manager?

Construction projects are huge projects that require various phases. Each phase is essential to getting construction projects completed on time and within budget. A project manager is key to ensuring that construction projects are kept on schedule and run with all the health and safety requirements in mind.

There are lots of people who work on a construction project. A construction project manager is the one who understands each part of the project and roles the team has to play.

What are the differences between a project manager and construction project manager?

There are a few differences between a project manager and a construction project manager. The main difference is that a project manager doesn’t always work on a construction site. A construction project manager almost always works on the construction site and managers the project as it’s being built. There may be days where a construction project manager isn’t on site, but they may be few and far between.

The skills that a project manager needs are all the same regardless of area. However, a construction project manager also requires in depth knowledge of health and safety regulations that need to be met on site. This is to ensure that the team is kept safe in their working environment as well as ensuring that the project meets the regulatory standards necessary.

Day to day tasks of a project manager in construction

The day to day tasks of a project manager in construction can vary. However, each day it is essential that a construction project manager checks in with any deliveries or budget requests. This helps keep the project running smoothly as well as on budget.

A construction project manager will also delegate tasks to other team members and ensure that the tasks are completed. If there are any issues within the project it will be the responsibility of the construction project manager to use initiative and leadership skills to help solve the problem.

Understanding the details of a role is essential to making the right career decisions. Here at FBR, we believe that there is the right role for everyone. When you find the right job you can continue to grow and evolve in your career. For more information on all our roles visit our Jobs Board.

Found a role that’s right for you? Contact our construction recruitment experts.

Insight into construction project managers job and salary

Insight into construction project managers job and salary
Learn all about a construction project manager job description and salary in FBR’s detailed job guide. Understanding a role is essential in finding the right job. From a detailed job description to salary information as well as qualifications and skills, you will find out all you need to know about construction project management.

Construction project manager job description

The main responsibilities of a construction project manager are to ensure a project is run smoothly, on time and within budget.

You will be in a leadership role which means that you will need to delegate tasks and help organise each phase of the project. This is an important aspect of the job as there are many different tasks and responsibilities.

Attention to detail is essential as well as communication. You will be required to speak with various people across the board to provide updates on how the project is going.

Being on site and ready to tackle the challenges of a construction site is necessary. There are various health and safety protocols which will need to be followed and can vary depending on the site and project. Understanding the intricacies of this is important as you will ultimately be responsible for your own safety and the team.

Construction project manager salary

A construction project manager salary will vary depending on a few factors, such as; experience, qualifications, and most importantly location.

Location plays a large role in any job’s salary. Is it important to note when looking at project management roles in construction that you take into consideration your own location, qualifications, and experience.

The average salary for a construction project manager in the UK is around: £61,769. This can vary depending on location and experience. The minimum salary for a construction project manager is £37,500, whereas the maximum salary for a construction project manager is reported at £89,700.

Project manager qualifications

As with many roles it is essential to have qualifications in order to perform a job. In particular, the construction industry requires a few key qualifications.

It is becoming increasingly common for construction companies to require each individual obtains a CSCS card. You can learn more about them here.

University construction project management courses

One of the more traditional routes of education is to obtain a construction project management degree from participating universities.

As a rule of thumb, you will need 2-3 A levels or equivalent in a relevant field or a first degree in a relevant subject. The A levels will provide you access to an undergraduate course, whereas a first degree will provide you with access to a postgraduate course.

Depending on the university you may find either: Construction Management, Project Management courses. Alternatively, Business and IT courses can cover similar subjects and provide a broader field of job opportunities should you change your mind further in the future.

College construction project management courses

For those who prefer a more hands on approach; college or training providers might be more suitable. These work on a NVQ qualification basis, which means that you obtain qualifications with more hands-on experience.

You will be able to begin an NVQ straight after secondary education. You will need 4-5 GCSEs graded between 4-9 (that is equivalent to C-A* in the old grading system). These qualifications will gain you entry into a level 3 NVQ course.

Alternatively, if you have studied A levels at college you will be able to move directly onto a level 4 or 5 NVQ course.

There are various NVQs you could do from Business Improvement Techniques, to Project management. Always speak to the training provider to ensure that you are entering the right course.

Soft Skills

There are many skills required to work in construction project management which are not always found through a course.

The soft skills refer to skills which are typically unable to be assessed on any qualification or proven otherwise.

Soft skills that are required for project management are;

  • Communication skills
  • Organisational skills
  • Logical and Critical thinking skills
  • People management

These skills are gained through experience and can always be worked upon.

Are you looking for your next role in construction project management? Contact FBR now or view our Jobs Board for more information.

Day in the life on a construction site

Day in the life on a construction site
Knowing what a typical day looks like for any job is extremely important. Having the information on what can happen, and what to expect will enable people to align their own requirements with a specific role or industry.

A construction site is a busy and sometimes dangerous environment. Being prepared for what happens on site is essential for all of those who work within the construction industry.

Who works on a construction site?

There are many people who work on construction sites. Each person has their own role to play to ensure that the project is either completed, managed correctly, or carried out to the highest safety standards.

A project manager will be on hand to ensure that the project runs smoothly. They will be the connection between the client and the site manager. It will be the role of a site manager to ensure that each team who is working on the site has what they need to carry out their job. They will also ensure that the site is safe to work on and follow all compliance guidelines.

General construction crew will be responsible for doing the manual labour. There are different specialities within this sector, from brick laying, demolition, warehouse installation, and more.

There may also be electricians, plumbers, and even decorators on site at any point throughout a project.

Typical day on a construction site

There is no typical day on a construction site, depending on the phase of the project how the day is structured may vary. However, there are some consistencies when working on a construction site.

At the start of the day there may be a meeting, this will either be a project brief or checking in with the team on where each task is currently at. After everyone is settled in and knows what they need to do and where the project is at, most will then begin their tasks.

Depending on your role within the project your tasks may vary. For construction crew, you will be expected to prepare the site for safe working conditions. As well as perform many of the manual labour tasks. This can be moving site equipment safely with the relevant machinery, or building aspects of the project.

If you are within the project management department you will need to ensure that the project is running on time and smoothly. You will be responsible for budgeting, as well as obtaining the relevant items and materials for the ground crew to perform their role.

It is important to take the relevant breaks based on your role. Legally everyone is entitled to a break, and there are certain requirements that must be met. Each site has different restrictions, from working with chemicals, site conditions and temperatures and more. Ensure that you take the legally required breaks, otherwise it could be detrimental to your health as well as land your employer in hot water.

As you continue to work through each phase of the project you may be asked to provide updates and reports to various stakeholders. This is key information that allows a project manager to keep track of the progress as well as highlighting any issues that you may face.

At the end of the day there may be a progress update. This will be with your site manager, again these reports allow the project manager and site manager to see how the project is progressing.

Before the end of the day, the site will need to be cleared and tidied. This is important for many health and safety reasons. Equipment needs to be maintained and looked after as well as securing any materials that aren’t in use.

Every day is different on a construction site, understanding the health and safety rules you must abide by as well as the details within your role will help you navigate this fast paced environment.

If you are looking for your next role in construction, contact FBR recruitment today. Our team are experts in construction recruitment, and will help you find the right role. View our jobs board now.

Learn about the pros and cons of working in construction

Learn about the pros and cons of working in construction
Every job has pros and cons, it’s the natural balance of life. We aren’t one to sugar coat something. It is important for all candidates to understand the roles they will be getting into. Whether that is understanding the salary and industry insights or knowing what a typical day in the job looks like.

Knowing what to expect within a role enables you as a candidate to make the right decision. As well as us in recruitment placing the right candidates.

Construction can be a complex and fast paced industry, so there are bound to be both pros and cons of working in construction. Let’s look at some of the benefits and not so fun parts of construction.

What are the cons of working in construction?

In order to not end this blog on a downer, let’s first look at the cons of working in construction. Because, let’s be honest, no job is perfect all the time.

1: Hours

The hours can be seen as a benefit for some, but typically the days in construction start early. Again, this all depends on the role you are in but if you are one of the construction crew you will most likely start your work as soon as possible. For some, the early day is great but for those who enjoy a later start to the morning it isn’t too fun.

2: Hard labour

Not to say that no one else works hard, but there it takes a different type of person to do manual labour associated with many construction roles. The implementation of machinery and such is making many roles easier to manage; many construction roles require physical labour. Be prepared.

3: Location

Some projects may require you to travel. This can be anywhere from an hour’s drive or maybe they will require overnight stays. Depending on how the construction company works, you may be asked to travel further distances than anticipated. This for some can be difficult to manage. So it is important to be honest with the employer or recruiter and find out how much travelling you may need to do.

What are the pros of working in construction?

So now we’ve looked at some of the not so good things about construction, and even then some may not see those as issues. Let’s look at some of the pros of working in construction.

1: Variety

One of the benefits of construction is that no two projects are alike. Each project will have different problems to solve, different working conditions, and the client is different too. This makes it extremely engaging for many people.

2: Opportunity

Working in construction provides many opportunities for advancing your career. There are so many different roles within the construction industry that you can continue to grow and advance in any area you set your mind to. The wealth of opportunities available means that there is something for everyone.

3: Not tied to a desk

Being in construction means that you are out and about and active. This means that you are always moving and doing something, for those who can’t stand sitting at a desk for hours; a job in construction is perfect for you.

What is the best role in construction?

In our opinion, there is no best role in construction. What makes a role the best, is one that fits you and what you need from a job. Making sure that you are working in an industry that you enjoy, with the people that you get along with is what will take a job, to the best job.

Knowing what to expect from any role is important. If you are looking for a job in construction and have questions about the industry, speak to our expert recruitment agents. Our team at FBR is here to help you find the right role for you.

Construction workers automated out of jobs

Construction workers automated out of jobs
With so much going on around AI and technology, it is no wonder that people ask if construction workers can be automated out of a job.

While there are many benefits to technology and automation; that doesn’t automatically equal job replacements. There are many aspects of construction work that will need to be carried out by humans. However, with the advancement of technology and AI, we may find that the way we go about construction jobs changes and evolves.

As technology becomes more advanced and capable, many processes can be streamlined and sped up. This will free up time for employees to really focus on things that matter, this can make a huge difference to construction work.

So let’s look into how technology can be used to enhance construction jobs?

How can technology be used to enhance construction jobs?

There are three key ways technology can be used to enhance construction jobs, don’t worry these will make your work-life easier.

Reduce physical labour

One way is to reduce the amount of physical labour needed in the construction process. Automated machines and robots can be used for various tasks like digging, carrying, moving and lifting materials, etc. This saves time and energy from having to do all of this physical labour manually.

This also can create safer work environments for construction workers. As we all know there are many tasks that have to be carried out in specific ways in order to be done safely. With the introduction of specific machines, we can reduce workplace accidents in the construction industry and make it safer for all those involved.

Improve 3D printing and materials

Another way is to make use of 3D printing technology in order to create construction materials faster and with more accuracy. 3D printing can be used for creating models, prototypes, and even final products that are cheaper, lighter, and stronger than traditional materials.

This will result in more time and effort being put into the design process to ensure the end result is exactly right. Having more time to design and plan will be extremely beneficial for many construction job roles, in particular for those who are design engineers, CAD draughtsmen, and more.

Project management and the use of AI

The use of automation and AI is becoming increasingly popular in the field of construction management. This allows for better project planning and scheduling, as well as more accurate estimating of costs and time frames. Automation can also make it easier to track progress, reduce paperwork and automate the billing process.

This helps streamline processes and allows project managers, construction managers, and others to spend time focusing on the things that matter.

There are so many ways that technology can be used to improve construction jobs, from reducing physical labour to using 3D printing for better materials to using AI for better project management. People only fear what is new, and technology advancing has never replaced jobs entirely, only changed the landscape of work.

If you are looking for a new challenge in construction contact our team at FBR today. We focus on finding the right role for the right person. Our team of experts is able to help guide you through the recruitment process, from checking relevant qualifications and more. Contact us today.

Do millennials want to work in construction?

Do millennials want to work in construction?

Do millennials want construction jobs? This is quite a common question in our industry and it’s no wonder that with how the job market consistently changes.

In past generations manual labour jobs were common. Now with the rise in technology more office based jobs take up the market share. So the question is do we think millennials don’t want construction jobs?

It is important to remember, that the youngest millennial is in fact mid twenties. So millennials are not the youngest generation in the workforce. This offers clarification on who we are talking about.

It may surprise you to hear that it’s not all on millennials. As the younger generation reaches the workforce, what they are looking for from an employer is different to the ones before them.

Work Life balance is key for many younger generations, and businesses in all industries need to consider this when recruiting new employees. Millennials are the generation who have been told to work smarter not harder. This means if there is a way to make a role simpler then they will explore that. Businesses who remain trapped in old processes may lose out to new talent.

So the question isn’t that millennials don’t want to work in construction, but how can construction companies recruit millennials?

How have construction jobs changed?

Since the beginning of time construction has always been a part of life. From building houses, highways, industrial estates, warehouses, and more.

Before technology many tasks in construction relied upon a manual process. From taking measurements, surveying lands, and more. As technology evolved, so did the construction industry. Measurements became digitalised, as did plans and designs, even now surveys can be completed with various technology such as drones.

As technology continues to evolve so will the landscape of construction roles, as long as businesses embrace these changes.

Improving with technology and other advancements will ultimately change the way a construction job is done. This means gone are the days of pencils, hauling and handling with only a wheelbarrow.

So it is not so much that millennials aren’t working in construction roles. They are simply working in a different capacity to what a construction role previously entailed.

How to appeal to younger generations in the job market

Younger generations, and the younger millennials look for work life balance and flexibility. There are many roles which offer this and as such construction companies need to consider ways in which they can also offer flexibility.

Another key thing to consider when looking to recruit younger generations, is what could their career path look like? Gone are the days of chasing a job title and income for status. Millennials and those younger want to make an impact and improve the world around them. If they can do this through their job then they will be far more fulfilled and stay in jobs longer.

Using this, businesses will need to look at ways they can streamline their internal processes and make better business decisions that have positive impacts on the environment and world.

Additionally, while money isn’t everything millennials look for. They know their worth and expect to be paid for it. This means you can’t expect minimum salaries for high flying jobs.

The construction industry is a fast moving industry in terms of recruitment. Having a recruitment agent who understands your needs is essential to finding the right talent. Here at FBR recruitment, our experts are on hand to make sure you find the right person for the right job. Contact us today.

How many women work in construction?

How many women work in construction?
With International Women’s Day looming near we thought we’d look into the women in construction. There are many debates that surround equal opportunity and gender pay gaps.

It is important to keep these in mind when recruiting, which is why here at FBR we look at skills and compatibility over anything else. It is important to find employers the right person for the job, no matter the gender. This applies to securing salaries, our team understands the construction industry as well as the salary for each role.

Traditionally construction has been a male dominated industry for many years. As the world evolves, and with it so does the job market.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we look at all the fantastic women who work in construction. It’s a fast paced industry and not for the faint of heart.

How many women work in construction?

Women currently account for a total of 16.2% of total construction roles. While this number is low, it is showing signs of improvement over the years.

This figure includes roles that are predominantly administrative, and secretarial. According to the ONS, only 1% of this total is in relation to roles such as bricklaying, carpenters, electricians, and other manual skilled workers.

History time; many businesses seem to forget that during WW2 many roles were fulfilled by women while men were being conscripted into the army.

Why have women traditionally chosen other careers instead of construction?

Everyone’s job is a choice. We all have different factors that we take into consideration when looking for a job. Women traditionally were excluded from the workforce in many construction roles. So it was never the case that they chose other careers, simply put society chose the roles for them.

However, that is not the case in our modern day society. As the job market continues to evolve it offers up opportunities for people of all walks of life. This provides businesses with a diverse workforce and talents.

How can construction jobs become more accessible?

Construction jobs are far more accessible than they have ever been. With technology changing the landscape of construction roles it can only be believed that it will continue to make these roles more accessible.

The pandemic sped up many aspects of working environments. It has been found that many people prefer a hybrid work solution. As such construction roles which rely on paperwork and admin processes may be able to accommodate; by offering people the option to do admin at home while attending on site for other requirements.

Here at FBR we look at matching skills and people with the right job. This way businesses get the best talent, and employees remain happy in their roles.

Our skilled recruitment agents are on hand to help businesses find the right employee. As well as matching new candidates with dream roles. From new placements to taking the next career step, our team is on hand to help.

Contact us today to see how we can help you today.