Occupations within the Construction sector

The construction sector involves a diverse range of jobs from planning and development to the finished built structure. The variety of jobs ranges from planners, architects, and engineers, to construction firms, tradespeople, and many more. Over 205,000 people are employed in this sector.

According to the 2019 National Skills Bulletin, 11 occupations within Construction were identified as being in short supply. These are Civil Engineers, Construction Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, Carpenters, Glaziers, Steel Erectors/fixers, Curtain Wallers, Scaffolders, Pipe Layers, Electricians, and Construction Site Drivers. Global population is increasing continuously and so this promises work in this sector around the world.

Many people are familiar with the traditional work roles such as Plasterer, Plumber, Architect but other roles such as Quantity Surveyor and Town Planner are often overlooked due to lack of understanding of what the occupation involves.

A sample of occupations within Construction:

·       Quantity Surveyor - Calculates the cost of building projects from start to finish, taking into account labour, materials, taxes and maintenance costs.

·       Civil Engineer - Works on the design and construction of various structures

·       Town Planner - Help to shape the way towns and cities develop by balancing the competing demands placed on land by housing, business, transport and leisure, and making sure plans meet the economic and social needs of the community.

·       Construction Manager- oversees the daily operations of construction sites, ensuring the various tasks are being carried out and to schedule.

·       Fire Safety Engineer- works to prevent fire damage and protect people from fires by recommending fire resistant materials and working out fire exit plans.

·       Environmental Engineer- prioritise environmental protection and conservation in design and development projects.

To find out more on the occupations within this growing sector, go to www.careersportal.ie. There is a link to research career sectors and find out more about what the job entails.

Routes into the various occupations:

The apprenticeship route is excellent for individuals interested in the trades. Applicants must source their own employer. It is a fully paid earn and learn option that results in a worldwide recognised skill and qualification at the end. www.apprenticeship.ie has more information on the variety of trades available.

In terms of CAO courses, there are hundreds to choose from. The best place to begin researching the available courses is at  www.qualifax.ie . When researching pay close attention to course content and subjects taught on the course to ensure it is something that interests you.

 If you would like further information in relation to courses/ careers within this growing and dynamic sector, contact McCullagh Careers today at info@mccullaghcareers.ie or on 0872120527.