You can start as a labourer or apprentice, learn a skilled trade such as bricklaying or plumbing, or work towards professional roles such as a quantity surveyor or civil engineer. There are also opportunities to become self-employed and work as a contractor.
What are the most common jobs in construction?
There are many different jobs available, depending on your interests, skills and qualifications. Some of the most common include:
- Construction labourer
- Bricklayer
- Carpenter or joiner
- Plasterer
- Plumber
- Electrician
- Roofer
- Painter and decorator
- Groundworker
- Plant operator
- Dryliner
- Site supervisor
- Quantity surveyor
- Building surveyor
- Civil engineer
- Construction manager
The National Careers Service lists 84 career profiles within construction and the built environment, showing just how many different routes are available.
How to start a career in construction
You do not always need lots of qualifications to get started. A construction labourer, for example, can be an entry-level role where you gain experience on site and learn from more experienced workers.
An apprenticeship is another popular route. Apprentices spend time working for an employer while also studying towards a recognised qualification. This can be a good option if you want to earn money while developing practical skills.
Construction apprenticeships remain important to the UK industry. Around 33,000 people started construction apprenticeships across Great Britain in 2024/25, according to CITB. The organisation also estimates that construction will need the equivalent of 240,000 additional workers between 2025 and 2029 to meet expected demand.
Do you need a qualification to work in construction?
It depends on the job. Some trades can be entered through an apprenticeship, college course or by starting in a junior role and training on the job.
For example, bricklayers can start as labourers or hod carriers and train while working. Bricklayers typically earn around £25,000 as a starter, rising to £45,000 with experience.
Some jobs require more formal training. Electricians usually need technical training alongside practical experience before becoming fully qualified. Salaries are typically around £26,000 to £45,000.
Professional jobs can require higher-level qualifications. A quantity surveyor, for example, can enter through a degree apprenticeship, with salaries ranging from around £26,000 for starters to £70,000 for experienced workers.
Finding your niche in construction
Within construction are lots of niches, including whether you work in residential or commercial, focus on more high volume work or specialise in more luxury and high end renovations that can add value to properties. From installation of bathrooms, kitchens, loft conversions or becoming a driveway and patio specialist - there are lots of areas where you can carve out your niche and build an impressive business around this.
Being a property developer is another interesting pursuit, using your skills and knowledge of construction to build up a property portfolio and flip properties for profit.
Working for an employer or yourself in construction
Working for a construction company gives you a regular wage, holiday entitlement and the support of an experienced team. It can also make it easier to complete an apprenticeship and gain qualifications.
Becoming self-employed can offer more freedom. Experienced tradespeople can find their own customers, choose which jobs they take and potentially earn more. However, contractors also have to find work, manage paperwork, pay tax, buy insurance and cover their own tools and equipment.
For someone starting out, working for an employer is often the safer way to build experience. Once you have developed strong skills, qualifications and a good reputation, becoming a contractor can be an attractive next step.
Choosing the right construction career
Construction offers opportunities for people who prefer practical work as well as those who enjoy technology, design, numbers or managing projects. You can start with little experience, learn on the job or take an apprenticeship and build your career over time.
Whether you want to become a skilled tradesperson, site manager, engineer or self-employed contractor, construction offers plenty of routes to a long-term career in the UK.