Construction operative
Work on a construction site to help create buildings and structures while following sustainable building practices.
Also known as: site labourer
About the job
What it's like
As a construction operative, you'll do a range of manual jobs on building sites to help complete projects. Whether it’s a new school, a bridge or a housing development, you’ll be part of the team that makes it happen.
You’ll focus on many different practical tasks, from preparing sites to operating machinery. One day you might build foundations and the next you could help put in pipes or work with concrete. Lots of building projects like roads, houses and stores need construction workers. You'll focus on things such as taking down old buildings or using materials like steel or wood to construct new things!
You’ll use a mix of traditional skills and modern technology, often working alongside skilled tradespeople and engineers. Safety is always a top priority and you’ll play a key role in keeping sites running properly.
You'll use a mix of traditional skills and modern technology, often working with skilled builders and engineers.
Your tasks might include:
preparing construction sites by clearing debris and setting up barriers
mixing and pouring concrete for foundations and floors
operating small plant machinery like dumpers and rollers
assisting with the installation of drainage and pipework
loading, unloading and moving building materials
following health and safety procedures at all times
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
work on projects that improve energy efficiency in buildings
help with the construction of renewable energy facilities
Hours
You'll often start early in the morning.
It's common to work overtime at evenings and weekends to meet project deadlines.
Environment
You’ll spend most days outdoors, working in all kinds of weather.
Sites range from busy city builds and rural roads to large infrastructure projects and coastal developments.
Expect to wear safety gear and handle heavy materials.
This is an active role where you'll spend a lot of time on your feet.
Travel
Overnight stays away from home may be necessary.
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Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Energy Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- problem solving
- resourceful
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Metalwork
Practical Woodwork
Skills for Work: Construction Craft
Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
You don't need any specific qualifications to become a construction operative. But there are some things you can do to put yourself in a strong position.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Construction Management
Civil Engineering
Built Environment
Building Services Engineering
Construction Technology
Architectural Technology
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in areas such as:
Discover MAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in areas such as:
Discover GAs on Apprenticeships.scot.
Work experience
Any experience on a construction site or with building materials is useful. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
For some jobs, you may need to have a full UK driving licence to travel between sites.
You'll need to pass an aptitude test.
To work on a construction site, you must have a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
You'll need to pass a health and safety test to work and train on construction sites.
There is no age restriction for entry to the role but to operate machinery, you must be aged 18 or older.
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Construction operative'
