Builder – Job Description
Simon Thompson on Builders work on projects both large and small, from a single wall to an entire house. Whatever a client wants, a builder will build.
In boom times, builders are busy. In recessions, builders are still busy – everything needs repairing and maintaining, after all.
General day-to-day duties for a novice will include preparing and cleaning the work area – whether it’s a room, a roof or an entire plot – helping to order and deliver supplies, erecting and dismantling scaffolding and learning new skills on the job.
As your experience increases, so will your skill set and you’ll probably end up specialising in an area such as bricklaying, roofing and plastering.
As well as being practical, eager to learn and able to multi-task, you’ll need to be in good physical shape – builders do a range of physically demanding jobs and lots of lifting.
It’s not a sector where academic qualifications will get you an in, but there are on-the-job training courses to be had and specialist certificates can be earned in such subjects as welding, scaffolding and handling hazardous waste.
Browse our current vacancies in:
Other recommended resources:
Chartered Institute of Building
A chartered mark for builders interested in career development – especially important if you are interested in pursuing a building management career but also useful for news, information and support.
Construction Industry Council (CIC)
A society linking professionals, researchers and specialists to bring you the latest in the construction industry.
National Federation of Builders
An organisation supporting and promoting the interests of builders in the UK with information and training resources and which can also connect you to clients through membership.
Federation of Master Builders
A UK trade association for members of the building industry providing business support, career development and a link to potential clients through their Find a Builder tool.
Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)
Access to training courses, information about qualifications and apprenticeships aimed at giving you the competitive edge in the construction industry.
Considerate Constructors Scheme
An initiative aimed at improving the image of a builder through maintaining high standards in the industry. Membership allows you to mark yourself against a Code of Standards and prove to clients you follow best practices.
Know Your Place
A useful resource for any girls interested in getting involved in the construction industry providing support and information.
Local Authority Building Control (LABC)
An organisation promoting design and construction of buildings supporting Local Authorities and following the latest building regulations. Their website offers information about building control and access to relevant training.
Home Builders Federation
The voice for home builders in the UK supporting the interests of its members through policy and campaigns.
Federation of Plastering and Drywall Contractors
A society promoting high standards in the plastering and drywall industry. They offer support services and offer a mark of meeting specified best practice.
Association of Brickwork Contractors
An organisation seeking to promote and support quality, employment, training and health and safety in the bricklaying industry. Their website offers the latest news and access to membership.
National Federation of Roofing Contractors
The UK’s largest roofing trade association aimed at supporting the interests of its members. They also allow clients to source approved contractors – membership will get you on that list as well as the latest industry news.
