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What do they do?
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What Does a Construction Manager Do?

If you are searching for a career that is meaningful, challenging and rewarding, consider Building and Construction. This is a brief look at what you can expect.

What is Building and Construction?

Few industries play a more vital role in our society than Building and Construction. It provides the homes we live in, the offices we work at and the roads, highways and airports we rely on to get around. In fact, everything from our schools and stadiums to our hospitals and sewerage systems is thanks to this vibrant and essential industry.

As Australia’s fourth largest industry, Building and Construction boasts over 330,000 businesses that together employ more than 1 million people. It accounts for approximately 8% of the country’s GDP, encompasses dozens of different professions and includes the following three main sections;

  • Residential – Home building, renovations
  • Non-residential – Offices, apartments, schools, hospitals, stadiums, etc.
  • Infrastructure – Bridges, roads, highways, sewerage systems, etc.

Roles vary widely within the Building and Construction industry. Some require strength, fitness, and stamina, such as labourers, plumbers, and welders, while others rely on having an eye for detail, for example, estimators and architects. Regardless of the position, the following skills and traits are essential for a successful career in this industry.

  • Creative thinking
  • Clear communication
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Strong work ethic
  • Decent math skills

“As Australia’s fourth largest industry, Building and Construction boasts over 330,000 businesses that together employ more than 1 million people.”

What Qualifications do I Need?

The best way to get into the Building and Construction industry will depend upon the role you’d like to play. While some of the more hands-on positions can be entered via an apprenticeship, roles with more skill and responsibility often require specialised training. The following courses are just a few of your many great options;

Diploma of Building and Construction – Covers everything from structural principles, building codes and OHS risk management through to sustainable building practices. This popular TAFE course is ideal for those interested in working as an Estimator, Foreperson or Construction Manager.

Certificate IV in Building and Construction – This is a fantastic choice for those interested in a career as a licensed Builder as well as for people thinking of starting their own building-related business. You will learn how to plan, co-ordinate and execute work on both residential and low-level commercial buildings.

Diploma of Building Design – Get up to speed on everything from building methods, materials, and compliance requirements through to 3D modelling and OHS policies and procedures. This program will be of particular benefit to those interested in a career as a Draftsperson or Building Designer.

Note: Many courses contain a work placement component, which provides a valuable opportunity to gain experience and build connections within the industry.

Where Will my Career Take me?

Despite the mining and housing booms recently ending in Australia the career prospects in this $212 billion industry remain bright. Apart from the fact that there will always be a need for buildings, infrastructure and renovations, thousands of positions are expected to open up as ageing baby boomers retire over the coming years.

Graduate opportunities are available right throughout the industry, particularly in surveying, architecture, urban planning, building management and interior design. According to the Department of Employment, painters, bricklayers, glazers, tilers and plasterers are also in short supply.

If you are after a career that involves being active, solving problems and making a positive difference, Building and Construction is well worth a look. You will find well-paid positions for both men and women, plenty of opportunities to advance and getting started is easy thanks to the wide range of nationally recognised programs available.