Are you interested in a career in construction but feel that you need to do a little more research before taking the plunge? We’ve got some great news; we’ve done all the research for you. All you need to do is read on!
Thanks to our friends at Master Builders Victoria, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to cracking the construction industry. With insights into why construction careers are so great, what kind of pathways you can choose from, and where a career in construction could take you, our article will have you feeling confident about launching your career in no time!
Get To Know Master Builders Victoria
Master Builders Victoria have been bringing Aussies’ dream homes to life since way back in 1875, so it comes as no surprise that they’ve become a true staple in the Australian construction industry. Whether your dream abode is big, small, simple or complicated, they can bring your dream to life, and if you choose a career in construction, you can do the same thing for others!
Essentially, when you lock in a career in the construction industry, you’re also locking in the ability to really contribute to the future of Australia. You’re building the homes from your client’s mood boards and crafting a new, beautiful cityscape. It’s an important role, but don’t worry, Master Builders thinks you’re up for the job!
To help you get started in the construction industry, Master Builders Victoria highlights a tonne of fun and inspiring pathways so that you can unlock the career path of your dreams. To kickstart your journey, head over Master Builders’ dedicated employer profile and explore the variety of resources they’ve put together just for you.
Why Construction is a Good Career Choice
Our list of reasons why you should consider cracking the construction industry goes on and on, but in the interest of brevity, we’ve only listed our top five. Trust us, it was a hard list to narrow down.
Job Security
It’s no secret that the housing market is popping off at the moment, and by choosing a career in construction, you’ll be positioning yourself in a thriving industry. There will always be lots of people wanting houses renovated or built, and when these needs arise, builders will be the ones cashing in!
Flexibility and Career Progression
The construction industry is incredible for those wanting to keep growing within their chosen industries. Through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and other enticing pathways, construction professionals will always have the option to progress in their field. Essentially, it doesn’t matter whether you want to be a tradesperson, supervisor, or engineer; when you work in construction, there will always be a way to reach your full potential.
Earning Potential
This job perk links to the many opportunities within the construction industry; with greater career progression comes a greater paycheck! If you knuckle down, display a willingness to learn, and undertake the necessary training, you can earn a pretty comfortable wage in no time! (According to Indeed and Glassdoor, salaries can easily surpass 100k)!
Job Satisfaction
As a construction professional, you’ll be able to see the results of your hard work coming to life and you’ll be able to claim that you’ve contributed to Australia’s landscape. How cool is that? What’s more, your ability to advance your career and pivot to new and exciting specialisations will result in a strong sense of pride (and will keep you from ever getting bored!
Potential for Travel
One of the many great things about the construction industry is that it’s booming everywhere. Thus, your skills as a construction professional will make you a hot commodity anywhere you go! Once you have some experience under your belt, you could likely land an international gig (if that’s what you’re into, but the Australian construction scene is pretty sweet too).
How to Get a Career in Construction
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all entry point for the construction industry. Rather, there are a tonne of different ways to get started, so aspiring construction professionals can choose the option that best suits them!
While some workers in the construction industry opt to complete a degree or diploma in mechanics, engineering, or another related subject, this isn’t mandatory. If you want to avoid HECS debt (great idea, by the way), we have some great alternatives for you. The best part? You can get started today!
Trade Careers vs. Non-Trade Careers: What’s The Difference?
Before choosing which construction pathway best suits you, you’ll need to understand the difference between both types of construction careers: trade and non-trade.
According to the Master Builders’ Careers in Construction booklet, trade careers are hands-on roles that are obtained by completing an apprenticeship. Choosing a trade career is also thought to be a great first step towards becoming a registered builder.
Alternatively, non-trade roles tend to be less hands-on (think management positions or specialist jobs like building surveying, OHS and building design). Qualifications for non-trade positions can be earned in a variety of ways, such as by attending university, completing a TAFE course, or undertaking a traineeship.
Discover Alternative Construction Career Pathways
While university is the most well-known option for aspiring construction professionals, those who want to skip the early classes and student loans can try the following pathways:
Pre-Apprenticeships and Pre-Traineeships
These pathway options aren’t super well-known, but they’re super valuable! Pre-apprenticeships and pre-traineeships are introductory units that will offer a taste of the trade or industry (without locking you into long-term courses).
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a type of learning pathway that combines on-the-job training and study to get you feeling ready for the workforce. One of the best parts about apprenticeships is that they’re paid, so you can start making money from day dot! They usually last for about three to four years and result in a valuable qualification.
Traineeships
Traineeships are super similar to apprenticeships, but they only last from 12 months to two years. While undertaking a traineeship, you’ll still be combining hands-on work and study, working towards a qualification and getting paid in the process.
TAFE Courses
TAFE courses, otherwise known as Technical and Further Education courses, are programs that allow you to earn certifications in a variety of different areas without taking the traditional university route. If you’re in Victoria, a lot of these courses are actually free!
Where a Career in Construction Could Take You
If you don’t envision yourself sticking it out in an entry-level role, there are a tonne of rewarding (and high-paying) positions you can work towards. To pique your interest, we’ve put together some of the most intriguing options, along with the average salary that Indeed associates with each role:
- Glazier, $65,662 per year
- Construction Engineer, $69,268 per year
- Roofer, $88,289 per year
- Architect, $95,839 per year
- Building Surveyor, $106,814 per year
- Foreman, $124,925 per year
We’ve pulled this chart from Master Builders’ Careers in Construction booklet to give you an idea of how career progression can realistically look within the construction industry. The following chart covers how the role of a bricklayer can change and develop; it’s pretty inspiring stuff!
Build The Future of Your Dreams Today
With all of these insider insights under your belt, we think you’re ready to launch a rewarding career in the construction industry! However, if you still want to know more, check out Master Builders’ inspiring Careers in Construction Booklet, or head straight to our Building, Construction and Engineering industry page.
