What do we want? Construction! When do we want it? Now! The people have spoken . . . and the good news is action is being taken.
The Scottish Government has set a target to build no fewer than 50,000 affordable homes by the year 2021.
And this week we saw Transport Scotland open the bidding for two roads maintenance contracts worth a combined £930 million. Meanwhile Balfour Beatty won a £96 million A9 dualling job.
We’ve also got news that more than 1800 new homes are to be built in Hamilton, having been given the green light by South Lanarkshire Council.
Show all Construction/Trades jobs across Scotland
All of these are strong foundation stones for construction and music to the ears of tens of thousands employed in the industry and associated sectors every year.
They also represent a major boost to anyone wishing to be recruited into the business of building, whether that’s in road infrastructure, homes, offices or schools.
Despite this newfound buoyancy, skills gaps mean there are still challenges to overcome.
Currently the construction sector needs a range of professionals to allow companies to bid for and fulfill more contracts. Among them, you can find the following roles on s1jobs.
Tradespeople
It’s estimated in less than a decade many people with trades skills will be nearing retirement age.
To avoid a recruitment black hole, where there should already be an army of eager workers, youngsters are needed right now to begin new careers in key areas such as plumbing, bricklaying, joinery and roofing.
Estimators and surveyors
Long before the ground is cleared and foundations are laid, a lot of unseen work goes into the building process. This involves professionals who have the knowledge, experience and expertise to identify the right builds to suit companies and secure business. It’s also about getting the job done on time and within budget.
These are incredibly important roles that help to maximise the value from any project, while ensuring excellent quality control for clients and brand management.
Civil engineers
These are not only engineers who are awfully nice, they are engineers who are in high demand because they bring to life the highest aspirations of customers and fantastical plans of architects.
No matter the nature of a project – from bridges and buildings to roads and runways – civil engineers are as important to the process as brick, concrete and Tarmac.
From a recruitment perspective, the skills gap means Scotland is ready and waiting for new starts. Why not take a look at the new crop of Construction/Trades vacancies on s1jobs?