Site supervisor
Check that work on building sites is being done well and that the workers are safe. You'll make sure projects are using sustainable materials and methods.
Also known as: clerk of works, warranty manager, site inspector, building quality officer
About the job
What it's like
Are you looking for a senior role on in construction? If so, a site supervisor job may be the perfect next step in your career.
A site supervisor checks that all work on a building site is being done properly and that the workers are safe. You'll oversee the quality and safety of work on a construction site, and check that the work matches the building plans and specifications.
You’ll make sure that health and safety rules are being followed.
Your tasks might include:
inspecting the work on site and comparing it with drawings and specifications
advising on sustainable construction practices and materials
checking the quality of the building materials
identifying where work is not good enough and suggesting ways to make it better
dealing with other construction staff, such as contractors, engineers and surveyors
reporting progress to construction managers, architects and clients
You might also be responsible for supervising the workforce on the building site during a project.
Green job
In this job, you can do work to help the environment by:
encouraging the use of eco-friendly materials and methods on projects
planning construction processes that minimise waste on building sites
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Construction Skills Certification Scheme – Learn more about CSCS cards
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Site supervisor'
Select qualification level(s)
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Sustainable transport planner
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.
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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.
- understanding
- analysing
- negotiating
- making decisions
- researching
- questioning
- observation
- written communication
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:
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
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Engineering Science
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Physics
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Practical Craft Skills
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering
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Skills for Work: Building Services Engineering
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Most site supervisors spend time in other relevant roles, then move into this job once they've racked up experience.
Although, you can get straight into site supervision with the right qualifications.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Construction Management
Civil Engineering
Building Services Engineering
Construction and the Built Environment
Use the My World of Work course search to find HNCs or HNDs.
University
A degree could be helpful for getting into this job. You could study subjects, such as:
Construction Management
Civil Engineering
Building Surveying
Quantity Surveying
Architectural Technology
Project Management
Work
If you're working in construction or civil engineering, you could move into a supervisory or management role through training and promotion.
Apprenticeships
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 Construction: Building.
An MA is a fantastic way to start a construction-based career.
Site supervisors must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to work on a site. You'll need to pass a health and safety test to qualify for this scheme.
Some employers require you to be a member of The Institute of Clerks of Works (ICWCI).
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Site supervisor'
