Tag Archive for: recruitment

Navigating the Construction Job Market with FBR: Guidance, Insights & Answers

In the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry, both clients and candidates often find themselves seeking guidance and clarity amidst a sea of questions and uncertainties. At FBR Recruitment we understand the challenges faced by both parties and strive to provide the expertise and support needed to navigate these waters effectively.

Specialized Expertise Across Construction Divisions:
In the dynamic world of construction, each sector presents unique challenges and demands specific expertise. At FBR Recruitment, we understand the importance of specialized knowledge and tailored solutions for different divisions within the construction industry. That’s why we’ve built a team of consultants with years of experience specializing in various construction sectors, ensuring comprehensive coverage and expert guidance for our Clients and Candidates.

  1. Trades & Labour
    Our Trades & Labour team Alex Wing, Richard Barnes, Laura Stalonczyk and Kasia Mirowska specialize in sourcing skilled tradespeople and labourers for a wide range of construction projects. From carpenters and electricians to plumbers and general labourers, they ensure that our clients have access to the reliable and competent workforce needed to keep their projects on schedule and within budget.
  2. Residential Developers
    Our consultants, Tom Flood and Cameron Whitley, bring extensive experience to the table, particularly in identifying talent for Residential Development projects. Their years of expertise enable them to grasp the intricate demands of residential construction. Consequently, they are adept at connecting developers with professionals who have the necessary skills and knowledge to consistently achieve high-quality results.
  3. Main Contractors
    For Main Contractors overseeing large-scale construction projects, our specialized consultants, Mark Ritchie and Jess Angel, deliver tailored recruitment solutions to address their staffing requirements. Drawing upon their extensive industry knowledge and networks, they excel in sourcing a wide range of talent, including project managers, site supervisors, and skilled tradespeople.
  4. Civil Engineering
    Our consultant, Alan Lung, specializes in recruiting civil engineers and professionals for infrastructure projects, encompassing roads, bridges, and utilities. With his profound understanding of Civil Engineering principles and project requirements, Alan assists clients in identifying candidates with the technical expertise and project management skills necessary to tackle complex civil engineering projects effectively.
  5. Mechanical & Engineering
    In the Mechanical and Engineering sector, our consultant Luke Wing specializes in talent sourcing for projects. With extensive experience collaborating with mechanical contractors and engineering firms, Luke excels in identifying professionals with the specialized skills and qualifications necessary for mechanical and engineering projects of all sizes.

Popular Inquiry Topics Addressed:

  1. Temporary and Permanent Positions
    For temporary roles, inquiries often revolve around duration and compensation. We ensure transparency by providing clear details on contract lengths and competitive pay rates.
    Similarly, for permanent positions, Candidates seek information on salary packages and benefits. We work closely with Clients to outline comprehensive offers, addressing both financial compensation and additional perks.
  2. Remote Work Opportunities
    With the rise of remote work, candidates often inquire about the possibility of telecommuting in permanent roles. While not all positions may offer remote options, we collaborate with clients to accommodate flexible work arrangements whenever feasible.
  3. Market Insights and Future Opportunities
    Clients and candidates alike are eager to understand the current market landscape and anticipate future trends. Our team stays abreast of industry developments, providing valuable insights on market conditions and potential growth areas.
  4. Anticipating Market Recovery
    Amidst recent challenges such as site shortages and redundancies, there’s a growing curiosity about market recovery timelines. We leverage our industry expertise to forecast market shifts and anticipate increased activity in construction projects.

Supporting Clients and Candidates:

  1. Client Assistance
    Our commitment to client satisfaction goes beyond simply filling vacancies. We provide essential market intelligence, assist in crafting compelling job descriptions, and offer guidance on competitive salary ranges and package inclusions.
  2. Candidate Support
    From career advice to navigating complex payroll structures, we’re dedicated to supporting candidates at every stage of their job search journey. We offer personalized guidance on CV preparation, interview techniques, and even lend a listening ear when needed.

Addressing Industry Misconceptions:
While our competitors may focus on showcasing achievements, we take pride in our genuine approach. Whether it’s our partnerships, market movements, or core values, we remain transparent and authentic in our communications. At FBR we’re not just about filling roles – we’re about building lasting connections and empowering careers.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, FBR remains steadfast in our commitment to providing unparalleled support and expertise. Whether you’re a client seeking top talent or a candidate pursuing new opportunities, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out to us today and experience the FBR difference.

Spotlight on Women in Construction: Firsthand Insights from FBR's Female Candidates.


Celebrating Women in Construction Week! This is a time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in the Construction Industry. Despite being historically male-dominated, women have been breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and making strides in various roles within the Construction sector.

In this special blog edition, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing several of our inspiring female candidates. Their stories, experiences and insights shed light on the challenges they’ve overcome, the successes they’ve achieved, and advice for women looking to get into construction.

Interview 1:

Meet Emma Arnold, currently working as an Assistant Site Manager placed by one of our Consultants, Cameron Whitley.

What is your role and what does it entail?
Assistant Site Manager – My job role is to help the Site Manager in delivering construction projects to completion. I generally supervise the project from 1st fix through to handover, this includes organising both trades and materials while also making sure that health and safety regulations are adhered to at all times.

What has it been like being a woman in construction, and how do you see the industry changing?
I have worked in the construction industry for almost 9 years now and I have never had any problems with being the only woman on a site. I think that women on construction sites is becoming more common and generally most men are not concerned about this, I do believe it is down to the individuals you come across rather than the industry as a whole.

What advice would you give other women looking to start a career in Construction?
My advice would be to just go for it, most of the men I’ve come across are more scared of you than you are of them.

Experience on working with me and FBR Recruitment in general.
I first dealt with Cameron from FBR last year when I got made redundant from my previous role, he was very helpful and friendly. He helped me find a new job within one month so my unemployment time was to a minimum.

Interview 2:

Meet Emma Richards, a Contracts Manager placed by FBR.

What is your role and what does it entail?
Contracts Manager for a fit-out and refurbishment company which involves raising orders for sub-contractors, suppliers and materials for each project, material take-offs, putting together the Health & Safety paperwork and site plans as well as liaising with clients, designers/architects and site teams. Projects can range from empty offices to live, multi-occupancy buildings and sites.

What has it been like being a woman in construction, and how do you see the industry changing?
I began in the construction industry back in 2000 starting with an NVQ 3 in Carpentry & Joinery, from there working as a machinist making doors, windows, frames and kitchens etc. I then decided to look into Site/Contracts Management completing various qualification and gaining valuable experience mainly within the shop fitting and fit-out sectors. I have been very fortunate to have worked with some amazing people and companies that have both been supportive and encouraging throughout my career.

The industry has changed a lot over the years and will continue to do so. It is already working hard to encourage more women to pursue a rewarding career within the sector. There’s much more consideration taken and provisions put in place on site as standard and there is now much more choice in site clothing, boots and PPE etc. which is really encouraging. I certainly look forward to the next 20 years and seeing how much further we can progress as an industry.

What advice would you give other women looking to start a career in Construction?
If it’s something you would like to do and are passionate about just go for it, don’t over think it, there really are so many options and avenues you can follow, something to suit everyone from cost management, site management, engineering, trades, designing, architecture, health and safety etc. If you look for the opportunities, they are there to take, be pro-active and enjoy!

Conclusion

As we conclude this blog honouring Women in Construction, we extend our gratitude to the women who shared their stories and insights. These journeys serve as reminders of the resilience, strength, and talent that women bring to the Construction Industry every day.

If you’re a female looking for work within the Construction Industry, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Or to browse some of our current available jobs visit our Jobs Board.

Let’s continue to champion diversity, promote inclusivity, and create opportunities for women to thrive in Construction and beyond.

Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for all.

FBR – Construction, Residential, Civil Engineering and Trades and Labour Recruitment Services in the South East of England

We are a recruitment agency serving the South East, Home Counties & South Coast of the UK, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East & West Sussex and Middlesex. Whether you are a construction contractor, housing developer, civil engineering contractor, client or job-seeking candidate, contact FBR Recruitment for all construction recruitment and staff requirements — we’ll be very happy to help you.

At FBR, we believe in more than just building construction careers; we believe in building communities and making a positive impact in the world around us. As part of our commitment to foster a culture of giving within our organisation, we are delighted to announce Abby’s Heroes as our Charity of the Year for 2024.

Abbys Heroes: A Beacon of hope for Children Battling Cancer:
Abbys Heroes originated in honour of a courageous young girl called Abby, who valiantly battled cancer from 2013. During her fight, Abby went through extensive treatment including 23 rounds of chemotherapy, 50 days of radiotherapy, as well as stem cell harvesting and surgery. But in 2014, Abby was declared in remission and resumed her education and cherished hobbies.

Sadly, the cancer resurfaced towards the end of 2014. Faced with the limitations of current research, Abby’s medical team found themselves without further viable options and she tragically passed away on the 29th of May, 2016. In response to this profound loss, the charity was established to honour her memory and support children and families in similar situations.

Founded with a mission to provide financial, practical, and emotional assistance, they have become a beacon of hope for those navigating the difficult journey of paediatric cancer.

Why Abby’s Heroes?
Choosing Abby’s Heroes as our Charity of the Year aligns with our core values of compassion, community, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Opting for this smaller, local charity allows us to make a meaningful impact on raising awareness for their cause, while also enabling us to directly observe and be part of the tangible positive changes taking place within our community.

We are excited to contribute to the incredible work Abby’s Heroes does on a daily basis.

Our Commitment:
Throughout the year, FBR will commit to supporting Abby’s Heroes through various initiatives, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities. We also aim to raise awareness around the crucial role that organisations like Abby’s Heroes play in providing support to families affected by childhood cancer.

How you can get involved:
We have set up a Just Giving page with a fundraising target for the year of £2,500, we invite employees, clients, candidates and the community to join us in supporting Abby’s Heroes. Whether it’s making a donation, participating in fundraising events, or volunteering your time, every contribution makes a significant impact on the lives of children battling cancer and their families.

Stay tuned for updates on our social media channels and company newsletters to learn more about the upcoming events and initiatives. A few of these being a fire walk, abseiling the Spinnaker Tower and the New Forest Marathon.

Together, we can build a better future for these brave children and their families.

Closing thoughts:
At FBR, we are excited about the opportunity to make a positive difference through our partnership with Abby’s Heroes. By working together, we can build a legacy of compassion, support, and hope for those facing the toughest battles.

Thank you for joining us on this meaningful journey as we construct not only careers but also a brighter and more compassionate future for our community.

Here is the Just Giving link if you wish to donate and help support this incredible cause:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/fbrrecruitment-abbysheroes

The ultimate goal of a recruitment agency is to match the right talent with the right job

How do recruitment agencies work? A guide to the different ways recruitment agencies work, including how to match the right candidate to the right job role, fees, etc.

Recruitment agencies work in various different ways. The ultimate goal of a recruitment agency is to match the right talent with the right job role and company. Call us corporate matchmakers if you will. 

The way that recruitment agencies make their money can be different, some recruiters work on a flat fee if the candidate they sourced was selected for a role. Other recruiters take a percentage pay based on the annual salary for the role. Recruitment agencies are running a business after all, however, there are good recruitment agencies and less than ideal ones. 

It is important to speak to the recruitment agency you are looking to work with, as a candidate as well as a business. If they are not transparent in how they make money or withhold information from you; that’s a huge red flag and you should consider your options.

Ultimately finding the right recruitment agent is key to ensuring that the right talent is in the right roles. Recruiting is expensive, even if you as a business decide to do it in house. That is why working with a recruitment agency can be beneficial as we work to align your needs as a business with the best talent on the market. 

Now we understand how the basics of a recruitment agency works, what does a recruitment agency do to make this happen?

Sourcing Candidates

One of the tasks that recruitment agencies need to do is source candidates. This can be done by outreaching online to those who have set public profiles as interested/open to work. 

Additionally, we have secure databases that we are able to use to help us match current job offerings with potential candidates. This allows us to match up both the candidate’s interests and requirements with the company looking to recruit.

Advertising Job Roles

Another thing recruitment agencies do is advertise roles they are recruiting for. Recruiting new talent is time consuming and takes a lot of effort for companies. Using a recruitment agent to advertise and pre-vet candidates helps those companies as well as proves beneficial for the candidates themselves. 

Supporting both Companies and Candidates

Recruitment agencies also work to support both companies looking to recruit as well as candidates. 

It is important for us as a recruitment company to align the company we are recruiting for with the right candidates and talent. We are there to answer any questions and support candidates with interview preparation and more. 

Our team are also experts in European recruitment and are able to assist with information relating to work permits and additional qualifications.

How to Work with Us as a Candidate

There are two ways in which you as a candidate can work with us. The first way is to view our jobs board and apply for any jobs relevant to your experience and skills. This is a great way if you are actively looking for new opportunities. 

The second way you can work with us is to contact us and submit your information and be included in our database. This way our recruiters will be able to access your information should an opportunity arise that you are suited for. 

Sourcing a Recruitment Agency as a Business

If you are a business looking to work with a recruitment agency there are some things you should consider. 

The first consideration is whether your recruitment agent is an expert in your industry. Not every recruitment agency understands the nuances of specific industries and this can make it difficult to ensure the right candidate is selected. At FBR, we are experienced in recruiting for construction roles and the construction industry as a whole. We understand the importance of specific qualifications such as CSCS and NEBOSH. 

Another important consideration is how they select candidates. Some recruitment agents select candidates by waiting for a submission. This can take time and if your recruiter isn’t working hard to find the right talent, are they the best recruiter for you? 

Ultimately working with a recruitment agency should be easy and stress free for both parties. At FBR, we work with both candidates and companies to ensure that the selection process is easy and accessible. We focus on the right candidates and talent for the right company. 

FBR – Office & Construction Recruitment Services in the South East of England

We are a recruitment agency serving the South East, Home Counties & South Coast of the UK, including Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Essex, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, East & West Sussex and Middlesex. Whether you are a construction contractor, housing developer, business or job-seeking candidate, contact FBR Recruitment for all construction recruitment and office staff requirements — we’ll be very happy to help you.

Email Us 023 8033 2438 Message Us Submit CV

 

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.