Construction graduate jobs

When we talk about construction as an industry, we’re grouping quite a range of different role types. It includes everything surrounding the planning and building of the structures that exist around us. This may fall under design, project management, consulting, or actual practical work. And, within these areas, there are multiple different branches and job titles you could pursue.

Of all these construction roles, some of the most common are:

• Project manager
• Surveyor
• Electrician
• Scaffolder
• Plumber
• Architect
• Building inspector

 

Careers in construction are naturally quite specialised. These are not roles you might get on a whim. Construction sites are potentially dangerous places that require care, foresight, and innovation. So, think carefully before searching and applying for roles in construction.

Skills can always be learnt, and construction graduate jobs often account for some degree of support and teaching. However, in many of these areas (particularly the practical ones) you’ll be developing a very specific skill. This will be invaluable in the job market and can sustain you with interesting employment opportunities throughout your career. For obvious reasons, it can also corner you into certain career paths or directions. So it’s important to consider whether construction is something you think you can dedicate yourself to.

In the construction industry, there are some great opportunities to earn well. Lots of these roles are highly specialised, high in demand, and earn deservedly high salaries for the crucial work they require.

Unsurprisingly, management roles pay very well. Site and construction managers earn a lot for the responsibility that comes with the role. There are a lot of moving parts on a construction site, and a strong and reliable presence is needed to cohere them. These sorts of roles may seem hard to access as a graduate, but you’ll be surprised how quickly you can progress into construction management jobs with the right employer.

Senior management aside, the construction opportunities that tend to pay the most are:

• Quantity surveyor
• Electrician
• Carpenter
• Plumber
• Boilermaker
• Project management

 

The salary will always depend on the company and the entry point of the role, as well as its title. For example, entry level construction jobs are always likely to pay a little less. Either way, many paths in construction lead to rewarding, dynamic careers, even if they aren’t paid excessively at their starting base. They might not appear to be the most popular positions amongst university students, but junior construction jobs will never go out of fashion. It is essential work, which is highly specialised, highly respected, and well-paid. Browse our latest construction openings today!

Give a Grad a Go has plenty of construction graduate jobs to browse through. And we have the know-how to help you navigate the different application processes. This can only happen once you’ve created an account with Give a Grad a Go. Upload your CV to our system, and our recruiters will be able to review it and get in touch.

93% of the candidates we place have first registered on our website. It makes a massive difference. This is because of our personal approach – we want to take the time to get to know you, what you’re looking for, and what kind of company may fit your personality. Creating an account makes it very easy for our team to get in touch with you, and seek out roles that feel tailored to your character and experience.

If you feel you’re lacking the educational or professional experience to go into a junior construction role, then you might want to consider a different route first. This may involve applying for an apprenticeship, seeking out training courses, or looking at work experience opportunities. Sometimes it is just a case of getting a foot in the door. Again, if you upload your CV to our site, we’ll be able to take a look at your experience, and work together to find the best construction jobs for you!

Graduate construction jobs require a diverse set of skills, as they involve a range of tasks from planning and design to actual construction and project management. The specific skills you need can vary based on your role within the construction sector.

Here are some key skills that are generally valuable for various UK construction jobs:

Technical skills:

• Blueprint reading and interpretation: Understanding construction plans, drawings, and specifications is crucial for executing projects accurately.
• Building codes and regulations: Knowledge of local building codes and regulations ensure compliance and safety in construction projects.
• Construction methods and techniques: Familiarity with various construction methods, materials, and techniques helps ensure quality workmanship.
• Equipment operation: Proficiency in operating construction machinery and equipment is often required for many construction positions.
• Construction software: Proficiency in using construction software for tasks such as project management, design, and cost estimation can be beneficial.
• Trade skills: If you’re in a trade-specific role (e.g., carpenter, electrician, plumber), expertise in that trade’s skills is essential.

Transferrable skills:

• Effective communication: Construction involves collaboration among various stakeholders. Clear and effective communication with colleagues, clients, subcontractors, and suppliers is essential.
• Team collaboration: The construction industry is built on teamwork. Collaborating well with colleagues and subcontractors is vital.
• Critical thinking: Analysing situations and finding solutions to unexpected challenges that arise during construction is a fundamental skill.
• Adaptability: Construction projects can be dynamic, and being adaptable to changing circumstances is important.

The specific skills required can vary based on the role you’re aiming for within the construction industry, whether it’s in project management, design, trades, or other areas.

Consider the specific construction job description for the position you’re interested in to tailor your CV accordingly.

A construction graduate scheme aims to provide a holistic introduction to the construction industry, equipping grads with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to embark on a successful construction career. These schemes are typically offered by construction companies, engineering firms, and related organisations.

The specifics of each scheme can vary, so it’s important to research and understand the details of the schemes you’re interested in. Here’s what a construction graduate scheme might involve:

• Rotations: Graduates may go through rotations across different departments or projects within the company. This exposure provides them with a well-rounded understanding of various aspects of the construction industry.
• Training and development: Participants receive structured training to develop both technical and soft skills relevant to the industry. This could include sessions on project management, construction methods, safety protocols, communication, leadership, and more.
• Hands-on experience: Graduates work on real projects under the guidance of experienced professionals. This practical experience allows them to apply their knowledge, learn from their colleagues, and contribute to actual construction projects.
• Mentorship: Many construction graduate schemes pair participants with mentors or experienced professionals who provide guidance, advice, and support throughout the scheme. Mentors help graduates navigate challenges and make the most of their experience.
• Networking opportunities: Graduates have opportunities to interact with colleagues, senior management, and industry professionals. Networking events, workshops, and seminars can help them build valuable connections within the industry.
• Professional certification: Depending on the role and company, participants might have the chance to pursue relevant professional certifications or licenses related to construction and engineering.
• Career progression: At the end of the scheme (usually spanning one to two years), successful participants might graduate from the scheme and transition into a permanent role within the company. Some schemes also offer the potential for accelerated career progression based on performance.

 

Overall, the best construction graduate schemes focus on providing graduates with a comprehensive introduction to the industry, wide-ranging experience, and opportunities for skill development and career progression.

Our job board contains the a wide variety of grad schemes – from graduate project manager construction schemes to quantity surveyor programmes – there’s something for everyone.