How to get Started with your Career in Construction

With so many trades and career paths to choose from in construction, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. You may have already decided which career route interests you which is great. If you haven’t start by thinking about what path could be the right fit for your interests and lifestyle.

Three basic ways to get started

1. Register as an apprentice. This will allow you to combine on-the-job training with in-class learning. If you’re keen to start earning money straight out of school but still want to learn, this is a great option.
2. Enroll for post-secondary school training. You can apply to a university, college or technical college to study for your chosen path.
3. Find entry level position such as labourer. Learning the skills you need on the job will allow you to gain experience on a construction site as well as helping you develop the right skillset. The best entry point is starting as a labourer as these jobs are much more accessible for those looking to get started straight away. You do need certain qualifications (these can be found below) but the same level of knowledge isn’t required.

Getting your Green CSCS Card

Most construction sites will require you to have a valid CSCS card. These cards are the industry-wide standard which prove your suitability to perform your job safely on site. Although they aren’t a legal requirement, most businesses will demand their workers have one to ensure safety on their site.

To become a labourer, you will need this card before you start work. These cards show fellow employees and managers that you have completed the necessary training to carry out your job safely.

To apply for a CSCS Green card you will need to have passed one of the following courses:

• CITB Site Safety Plus: Health & Safety Awareness Course (1 day)
• QCF Level 1/SCQF Level 4 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (1-5 days)
• IOSH Working Safely Course (1 day)

In addition to this, you should have taken and passed the Health & Safety and Environment Test to ensure complete safety in a construction space.

Consider investing in additional courses

Taking additional courses can lead to more work and better rates of pay. There are a lot of risks working in construction so if you’re working for an agency, they may require you to have additional qualifications.

Training courses that may be relevant include:

• Asbestos Awareness
• Workplace First Aid
• Basic Health & Safety Training
• Manual Handling
• Working at Height

Having an understanding of what the job role involves is important before you start any specific training. If you feel a job in construction sounds appealing, then this may be a suitable career for you to pursue.