Builders coordinate, oversee and work on the construction, repair and renovation of homes and other buildings. They are in charge of selecting, managing and coordinating the trades people throughout the construction process and liaising with the clients. Builders often begin their careers as a tradesperson, ie a bricklayer or carpenter, and may undertake some of the work personally.
Qualification
Diploma of Building & Construction (Building)
Sector
Residential / Commercial
What might a working day look like?
May perform tasks including:
- Overseeing the construction of a project, including communicating with suppliers, clients and workers on site
- Organising and managing subcontractors and materials
- Arranging, reading and interpreting drawings/blueprints and calculating materials required
- Estimating costs and scheduling material and labour to arrive on time for each section of the project
- Ensuring work is being completed according to all relevant building codes and regulations
- Carrying out some parts of the work you are qualified to complete
- Organising payments to subcontractors/suppliers and invoices to client for the works
- Managing any matters relating to loans, contracts and project approvals submitted to local government authorities
- Carry out regular inspections and manage the project quality, safety and any risks
Working hours & conditions
- Mostly outdoors but some office work
- May also need to work from your mobile office (ie. Vehicle) in between site visits
- Generally full-time hours with early starts, some evenings and weekend work may be required
Skills and personal qualities
- Demonstrate leadership and management skills
- Enjoy building things and technical activities that require accuracy and attention to detail
- Good literacy and numeracy skills
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Have good communication and interpersonal skills
- Be physically fit for the physical demands of the job
- Excellent planning, organisational and time management skills
How to get started
Most builders start their careers with an apprenticeship in a building trade. After gaining their trade qualification, and with further building experience they study to become a Registered Builder with a Diploma of Building and Construction (Building).
Future Pathways and opportunities
- Own your own building
- Construction Manager
- Project Manager
- Building Inspector
- Building Surveyor or Quantity Surveyor