2017 Construction & Property Graduate - Gradireland
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sponsored by
www.cif.ie
Graduate
Construction & Property careers in
construction &
property
2017
Information on career paths in
property and construction PLUS
• how to get a job or
apprenticeship
• working in construction
management, BIM, architecture, New!
structural engineering, property, Comprehensive
surveying and more... section on
• profiles and tips on what apprenticeships
employers want and what’s
involved
Inside this guide
Your career in construction
Job openings grow as construction
sector rebounds ..........................................2
the gradireland Construction & Property 2017 is Your path to a construction career ....4
sponsored by Construction Industry Federation, the Areas of work
voice of the construction industry in Ireland. cif.ie Construction economics/quantity
surveying ......................................................6
Construction management ..................7
Civil engineering ........................................9
Structural engineering ........................10
Building services ....................................11
Building Information Modelling
(BIM)/Architectural Technology ........12
Architecture ..............................................13
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships: proven route to
success ........................................................14
Demand for construction
professionals and apprentices
growing........................................................16
Structure of apprenticeships ..............17
Education training boards ..................18
People at work ..........................................19
Professional bodies ................................25
Your career in property
Successful and sustainable a career
in property..................................................26
Areas of work
Residential negotiator ..........................28
Chartered surveyor ................................29
Valuation consultant ............................30
Property management ..........................31
Property and the public sector ..........32
People at work ..........................................33
Getting a job in...
Construction ................................................34
Property ..........................................................36
Work experience and internships
Work experience
in the construction industry ................37
Work experience
in the property sector ..............................38
Pathways into construction for
gradireland Construction & Property is published by the © September 2016 Association of Higher Education non-vocational courses ..........................39
Association of Higher Education Careers Services and Careers Services and GTI Media Ltd (Ireland). All rights
GTI Media Ltd (Ireland). reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by Pathways into property for
We would like to thank all third level careers services in
any means including, but not limited to, photocopying or non-vocational courses ..........................40
stored in a retrieval system in any form without prior
Ireland and our publishing partners the Association of
written consent of the Association of Higher Education
Higher Education Careers Services for their help with this
Careers Services. This is subject to the single exception of
publication.
photocopying by the Association of Higher Education
Careers Service member institutions. All items so used
Titles in this series
Editor Ruairi Kavanagh
should be fully acknowledged. The views expressed in
Design Maya Little •Arts, Humanities & •Languages
articles are those of the author and their publication does
Proofreader Eric Hillis
Production Katie Burns, Ciarán Hall
not necessarily imply that such views are shared by the Social Sciences* •Property*
Association of Higher Education Careers Services and GTI. •Psychology*
Series designer Maya Little •IT
Whilst every care has been taken
Publisher Mark Mitchell •Construction •Retail*
in the compilation of this
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Events manager Aisling Ní Mhuirí
publication, the author and •Engineering •Science*
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or for consequential loss arising
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gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 1
INTRODuCING YOuR CAREER IN CONSTRuCTION
Job openings grow as
construction sector
rebounds
Now is a very good time to be considering a
career in construction. The sector is on the
rise again in Ireland.
There are now 116,700 people working in construction in Ireland. What’s
more, that number will rise over the coming years. The Government is
targeting the creation of an extra 60,000 construction jobs by 2020. That
will create a lot of opportunities for people looking to begin their career.
What other sector will provide so many possibilities for those who are
completing their education?
A growing industry always creates more jobs and no sector will
grow as quickly in Ireland as construction will over the next few years.
What could I earn?
All salaries are approximate and are based on average starting salaries.
Pay in the construction sector increases dependent on experience.
• Construction Economist/Quantity Surveyor: €34,000
• Construction Manager: €41,000
• Civil Engineer: €34,000
• Structural Engineer: €32,000
• Building Services Engineer: €35,000
• Building Information Modeller (Coordinator): €48,000 No sector will grow
• Architect: €36,000
• Health & Safety Officer: €32,000
as quickly in Ireland
• Facilities Manager: €40,000 as construction will over the
• Site Manager: €40,000
next few years.
2| Construction& Property 2017 gradireland.com/property
INTRODuCING YOuR CAREER IN CONSTRuCTION
Top careers in construction
Quantity Surveyors
Quantity Surveyors with varying levels of experience are in demand. Main
Contractors are also actively enticing candidates back from overseas. This has
led to salaries increasing at a higher rate than almost any other sector in the
construction industry. See page 6.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers are in demand to design and construct essential infrastructure
projects, such as bridges, motorways and water and waste water projects. See
page 9 for more information.
Building Services Engineers
The lack of graduates in this area has impacted the industry significantly.
Building Services Engineers fill a number of roles among Mechanical and
Engineering (M&E) Contractors and Design firms. See page 11.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technicians
With many projects moving over to 3D modelling, BIM technicians with Revit
are finding opportunities in various different organisations in the
construction industry. Candidates can find opportunities in architectural,
civil/structural, building services firms, main contractors, etc. Due to the
shortage of experienced technicians, many organisations are training existing
staff on Revit software. See page 12.
Architects
2015 was a welcome growth year for the architectural sector. Increased
activity in the commercial and residential sector has driven demand for
architects, especially in the capital. While salaries are growing, it is at a slower
pace than other areas in the industry. See page 13.
Health and Safety Officers
Health and Safety is paramount on each building site. With the increased
activity across the country, each contractor has seen an increase in the
demand for safety officers.
Structural Engineers
Engineering consultancies have been increasing staff numbers and the
growth in the number of new builds across the country has led to a demand
The Government is for degree qualified structural engineering staff. See page 10.
targeting the creation
Construction Manager
of an extra 60,000 Construction management covers a number of roles including; site manager,
by 2020. contracts manager, construction estimator, building project manager and
building surveyor. See more on pages 7 and 8.
gradireland.com/construction Construction& Property 2017 | 3
ACCESS POINTS INTO THE INDuSTRY
Your path to a construction career
Search for courses on
gradireland.com or qualifax.ie
Level 8 qualification in one of the
following: construction
Institutions that support Level 8 management, construction
(Honours Degree) Construction management & engineering, civil
Courses: engineering, sustainable civil
Dublin Institute of Technology engineering.
(DIT), Galway Mayo Institute of
Technology (GMIT), Limerick IT,
university of Limerick, Waterford
IT, Letterkenny IT, Dundalk IT,
Athlone IT, NuI Galway, Carlow IT, Level 6 or 7 qualification in one of
IT Sligo. the following: construction,
construction management, civil
Institutions that support Levels 6 engineering, civil and
and 7 Construction Courses: environmental engineering, Graduate level entry
Cork IT, IT Tralee, Limerick IT, construction management, roles across a wide range
Carlow IT, DIT, Dundalk IT, Athlone construction site management, of organisations and
IT, Waterford IT, Sligo IT. construction project management, career paths.
construction technology,
sustainable construction,
apprenticeship.
Get your career
4| Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/property
ACCESS POINTS INTO THE INDuSTRY
Apprenticeship in one of the
following construction areas: brick
and stone laying, carpentry and
joinery, floor and wall tiling,
painting and decorating,
plastering, plumbing, wood
manufacturing and finishing,
stonecutting and masonry,
construction plant fitting.
Institutes of Technology that
support construction/building
apprenticeships:
• Dublin Institute of Technology
• Waterford Institute of
Technology
Complete the 7 phase • Cork Institute of Technology
apprenticeship programme (four • Limerick Institute of Technology
with employer, three in college/
training) over 28 month period.
Complete assessments to ensure
you have reached approved
industry standard and the required
Level 6 qualification.
started
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 5
AREAS OF WORK
CONSTRUCTION ECONOMIST/QUANTITY SURVEYOR
Manages all aspects of the contractual and financial side of construction projects. Likely projects
in Ireland include the development and construction of major projects, such as residential and retail
development, office buildings, schools, hospitals, bridges, roads and sewerage.
Quantity surveyors and construction money and also sustainability in construction industry. By properly
economists, sometimes known as terms of the overall project advising clients and contractors,
construction cost consultants, work • Advising both contractors and quantity surveyors and construction
for either the client or contractor and state agencies on costing related economists can help ensure on time,
can be based in an office or on site. matters for various construction and in budget, completion of
Their role is to manage all costs projects projects.
relating to construction projects from • Advising on choosing contractors upon completion of accredited
initial design calculations to the final and procurement processes diploma and degree courses,
account, seeking to minimise costs • Administering the costs during the graduates are eligible to commence
and enhance value for money, while project for both contractor and the process leading to qualification
achieving the required standards and other related parties, such as the as a chartered surveyor and full
quality. client membership of both the Society of
These roles are fundamental to • Negotiation and dispute resolution Chartered Surveyors (SCS) and the
the success of any construction • Taxation and funding advice Royal Institution of Chartered
related project, all the way through Throughout Ireland and indeed Surveyors (RICS). See the career
from project initiation to completion the Eu, proper accountability for section of the SCS website
of the job. All aspects of the project construction projects is imperative, (www.scsi.ie) and the RICS website
need to be correctly costed and particularly in the aftermath of the (www.rics.org) for accredited courses
financially sustainable. If the costings financial crisis, which precipitated a and for information regarding the
are too restrictive, the project’s massive crisis within the Assessment of Professional
overall quality could suffer, if they are Competence (APC).
too generous, funds could be
exhausted before the project is
completed, so it’s a question of So it’s a question of
balance and being realistic about balance and being
what can be achieved by analysing realistic about what
the timeframe in which it is expected can be achieved
that the project be completed and
by analysing the
the available funding for the project.
timeframe in which
Typical tasks for a quantity surveyor it is expected that
or construction economist include: the project be
• Researching and preparing completed and the
construction budgets for a range available funding for
of construction and construction
the project.
related projects
• Planning the costs of each phase
of the project to ensure value for
6| Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/property
AREAS OF WORK
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
A construction manager transforms the ideas shown on design drawings into real buildings, roads
or bridges and organises the people, materials and equipment needed to get the job done.
Some job roles include: that strict quality control and health to work on more than one project at a
Construction manager/site manager and safety measures are adhered to, time.
This is the person in charge of a as well as operational and (continued overleaf)
building contract and as such they maintenance procedures. They also
must be aware of, and in control of, have to check that licences are up to
all aspects of site operations. They date and correct.
have responsibility both for the To research job disciplines, watch
profitability of operations and for Construction estimator videos on what jobs involve, or
adhering to the construction and cost This is similar to the work of a for more information, visit the
plans once agreed. Construction quantity surveyor and involves following: gradireland.com/
managers or site managers supervise preparing tenders based on careers-sectors or
and direct operations on a architects’ drawings and client gradireland.com/careers-
construction project to ensure it is requirements. While this is advice/job-descriptions
completed safely, on time and within predominantly an office-based
budget. On smaller sites, managers position, it is not necessarily a nine-
may carry sole responsibility for the to-five job. The role includes analysis
whole project; on larger sites, they of subcontractors’ quotations and
may be in charge of a particular working with the planning engineer
section, reporting to the senior site to predict the likely progress rate and
manager. Senior construction completion date of the project. A
managers may oversee several third-level qualification in a building-
construction projects at the same related subject will improve your
time. Construction managers work employment chances.
closely with other professionals
including architects, engineers, Building project manager
technicians and surveyors, and also Their responsibility is to see that the
act as a point of contact for the clients’ wishes are adhered to and
public. They have frequent meetings that the project is completed on time
with subcontractors and daily contact and within the agreed budget. A
with the site workforce. building project manager is often
involved from the initial concept and
Contracts manager design of a project through to its
This is a similar role to that of site construction and completion. They
manager, ensuring that all works are keep track of progress, building
completed to the required standards control regulations and quality
and supported by the relevant standards and resolve any technical
documentation. They need to ensure difficulties that arise. They are likely
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 7
AREAS OF WORK
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT continued
Building surveyor
They offer a specialist service on all Graduates from construction management courses
matters relating to construction, have found careers in large and small companies
including the restoration of old and across a range of occupations in both the
buildings and the construction of public and private sectors.
new ones. Among the services
offered are building surveys of
residential, industrial and
commercial property for intending
purchasers. They need to interpret
building regulations and use Technical sales adviser Managers. Construction
professional skill and judgement to Their work involves the preparation management can create
offer advice on acceptable solutions of estimates and tenders; opportunities for high level
to meet statutory requirements. preparation of drawings and management positions in a wide
Building surveyors also deal with fire specifications for technical elements; range of areas.
precautions and insurance claims. It’s management; quality assurance; and
a route open to any graduate. technical sales. There can also be
opportunities for self-employment, in
Facilities manager terms of project management,
This involves managing retail centres building estimation etc.
and offices blocks to meet the needs
of the organisation, the management Qualifications
and the occupants. Property and Graduates from construction
estate management companies may management courses have found
have facilities management sections careers in large and small companies
that manage these facilities on and across a range of occupations in
behalf of clients. Large organisations both the public and private sectors,
and corporations may have facilities including working in sustainability,
management departments of their conservation, information
own. The facilities manager may technology, project management,
employ specialist building services and with building contractors or
personnel such as building services sub-contracting firms as Estimators,
engineers and trades as either an Quantity Surveyors, Programmers,
employee or a sub-contractor. Planners, Contract Managers and Site
8| Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyAREAS OF WORK
CIVIL ENGINEERING
Civil engineering is all about creating, improving and protecting the environment in which we live.
It provides the facilities for day-to-day life such as transport, and the infrastructure allowing
industry to prosper.
Civil
Generally speaking, the work of civil supervising construction, including engineering
and structural engineers will the work of subcontractors. They
offers graduates
combine site and design work. use specialist equipment to survey
However, consulting engineers tend sites to ensure that the construction
a high-tech
to focus more on design whilst work is being carried out in the right career with the
contracting engineers will spend place and that the structure is safe; chance to travel
more time on site work, which for example, that steel and work outdoors.
involves supervising the setting out reinforcement is correctly in place. Due to current
and levelling of the site, surveying Civil engineering offers graduates a
and site management. Civil engineers high-tech career with the chance to
demand in this field,
work on projects that involve multi- travel and work outdoors. Due to graduate starting
disciplinary teams including current demand in this field, salaries are often
architects, quantity surveyors and graduate starting salaries are often above average.
building services engineers. above average.
Consulting engineers are responsible
for working with clients to design, Qualifications
plan, manage and supervise the This career area is open to any Further information
construction of projects. Their work engineering graduate, although a Graduates considering a career in civil
involves carrying out site civil or structural background is engineering should keep abreast of
investigations and feasibility studies; advantageous. You will need to developments via Engineers Ireland
developing detailed designs; liaising demonstrate strong technical (www.engineersireland.ie) and the
with other professionals such as competence and a creative approach Institutions of Civil Engineers
architects, building services to problem solving. Numeracy is (www.ice.org.uk) and Structural
engineers and quantity surveyors; essential for keeping financial records Engineers (www.istructe.org.uk) in
and ensuring the smooth running of and managing budgets. Civil engineers the uK. Student membership of
projects and completion within also need excellent communication Engineers Ireland is free. useful
budget and on time. Contracting civil skills in order to liaise with other information about the sector is also
engineers turn the plans of designers designers, contractors and available from the Construction
into reality. They liaise with the subcontractors, other professionals Industry Federation (www.cif.ie).
design team and oversee the actual and members of the public who may Graduate vacancies in civil
construction on site. Their work have objections to building work engineering are advertised in
involves organising manpower and taking place. Report-writing skills, university and college jobs bulletins,
materials, observing safety standards, team-working, strong organisational on gradireland.com and on the jobs
negotiating modifications with the skills and the ability to manage area of www.engineersireland.ie as
designers, scheduling work, and resources and people are also required. well as on company websites.
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 9AREAS OF WORK
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
Structural engineering is a specialism of civil engineering. It is the science and art of designing civil
engineering facilities so that they can safely resist the forces to which they may be subjected.
Structural engineers are key creative • undertaking complex and the skeleton and sinews”, is how the
members of every design team; repetitive calculations. Institution of Structural Engineers
around the world they are committed • Liaising with clients and a variety described the role of structural
to sustainably developing a safer of professionals including engineers.
built environment. architects and subcontractors. Critical skills that a person needs
Structural engineers combine • Compiling job specs and in structural engineering include an
expertise with innovation to meet supervising tendering procedures. in-depth understanding of physics
any building challenge and are • Resolving design and development and mathematics. A structural
concerned with the design and problems. engineer must also know the
construction of buildings, bridges • Managing budgets and project properties of various materials, such
and special structures. They aim to resources. as their density, hardness, tensile
design these structures with safety, • Scheduling material and strength, bulk modulus and bending
economy and elegance. They form equipment purchases and delivery. strength. They need to be able to
part of the team of professionals • Ensuring the project runs calculate how different materials will
involved with construction projects smoothly and the structure is perform under stresses such as
and therefore work closely with completed within budget and on compression, tension, bending and
architects, quantity surveyors and time. twisting, as well as under various
building services engineers. • Estimating the cost and quantities environmental conditions of
of materials, equipment and labour. temperature, pressure, corrosive
Work activities • Computing load and grade gases and liquids, and even radiation.
• undertaking technical and requirements, water flow rates and They also need to be able to predict
feasibility studies including site material stress factors to how these materials will perform
investigations. determine design specifications. over an extended period of time.
• using a range of computer • Inspecting project sites to monitor
packages for developing detailed progress and ensure the project is Qualifications
designs. being constructed according to Since 2012, Engineers Ireland require
design specifications. graduates to have an accredited Level
• Conducting studies of traffic 9 (Masters) qualification, or
patterns or environmental equivalent, to meet the educational
conditions to identify potential standards required of a Chartered
problems and assess how they will Engineer. In recent times significant
Structural affect the project. employment opportunities for
engineers Structural engineers often work structural engineers in Ireland were
combine expertise alongside civil engineers and filled by international graduates with
with innovation architects as part of a construction Masters level qualifications.
to meet any team; “if a structure was a human Graduates will have skills,
body, then the architect would be competences and a higher
building challenge. concerned with the body shape and qualification to enhance their
appearance, and the structural employment credentials in the
engineer would be concerned with national and international market.
10 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyAREAS OF WORK
BUILDING SERVICES
Building services engineers design and implement essential systems and play a key role in
ensuring projects are energy efficient.
Building services engineers are sector: a mechanical or electrical within a technical position or to
responsible for the services that make engineering degree is also usually specialise in research and
a building function: the lighting, accepted and some employers accept development. Graduates hoping to
power, ventilation, heating, cooling, other engineering degrees if you have pursue a career in building services
water services and so on. Their input taken relevant modules. engineering should keep up with
begins before construction starts and There are two main aspects of developments via the Chartered
extends well into the operational life building services engineering: Institution of Building Services
of a building. mechanical and electrical. Mechanical Engineers (www.cibseireland.org
Building services engineers work covers things such as air conditioning in ROI, www.cibse.org in the uK)
with the client, architects and systems, ventilation and heating; and Engineers Ireland
structural engineers to develop and electrical is concerned with aspects (www.engineersireland.ie).
agree a brief for the building, which is such as power, lighting, fire alarms and Skills required by graduate recruiters
then turned into a design to be security. It is also possible to specialise in this area include:
installed by a contractor. Once in a particular area, such as lighting. • Interpretational skills (the ability to
construction begins, building services There are also a number of ‘bolt-on’ turn computer outputs into
engineers monitor the performance of specialisms for building services practical solutions)
the installers to ensure the services are engineers, including sustainability, IT, • Numeracy
completed according to the design. acoustics and fire consultancy. Larger • Strong communication skills
Building services engineers play a organisations are able to offer these • Teamworking
key role in ensuring that projects are services to clients in house, while • Once you are chartered you can
energy efficient and sustainable. smaller employers buy them in. work anywhere in the world and
There’s a lot of research being done The type of job you do will depend the salary is generous too.
into new types of technology and on the type of employer you join:
building services engineers look at consultants tend to have more input
how these can be applied to make into a project’s pre-construction
energy savings. The emphasis on stages, while contractors usually get
sustainability does not just extend to involved on site, installing the services.
new-build projects. Since regulation When you start, your managers will
has become more stringent, building concentrate on making sure that your
There’s a lot of
services engineers are increasingly technical skills are up to scratch and, if research being done
concerned with how existing you work for a consultant, you’ll into new types of
buildings can incorporate sustainable probably begin by doing simple technology and building
development appropriately, for calculations under supervision and services engineers
example by using wind and solar turning the designs into installation
power. This is a particular challenge drawings using a CAD package. You
look at how these
on historic buildings. should also begin to work towards can be applied to
your professional qualification. The make energy savings.
Qualifications traditional career route for a graduate
The good news is that you don’t is to start out as a graduate engineer
necessarily need a building services and progress into management, but
engineering degree to work in this increasingly there is scope to progress
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 11AREAS OF WORK
BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING/ARCHITECTURAL
TECHNOLOGY
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an innovative new approach to building design, construction,
and management. Architectural Technology involves working as part of an architectural or construction
team, providing specific documents or technological requirements for the project.
BUILDING INFORMATION • Commercial experience using architectural technology practice,
MODELLING Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD architectural graphics and model-
First introduced around 2002, BIM has software making. As with architecture, career
changed the way industry • An understanding of construction possibilities are very much dependent
professionals worldwide think about techniques and surveying systems on the state of the economy.
how technology can be applied to and methods
building design, construction, and • Competent use of modelling What skills are required
management. Software underpins the software including Rhino, 3DS Max, You need to have mechanical aptitude,
BIM process but it’s wider than that, Sketchup would be desirable but and the ability to think in three
so working in the area will mean not essential. dimensions and how projects can be
dealing with colleagues who are not • A good team player with excellent realised via software and
involved in the design process. People communications skills. communicated in presentations and
will have different needs for BIM within by other collaborative means. You also
the company in which you work. ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST need to be able to work to tight
The architectural technologist usually deadlines and to work in a team.
Skills works as part of the architect’s team, Above all, you need to have an interest
Your career in BIM will depend on with particular responsibility for the in buildings, how they are built, how
strong technical skills. Packages like preparation of production information they work and how they are used.
Revit are industry standard and there such as working drawings, schedules Other tips on getting started on a
are free download versions which you and specifications. They also work on career as an architectural technologist:
can make yourself familiar with. A site surveys, administrative procedures • Get in contact with people though
typical job description for working in to do with building regulations, fire LinkedIn who are past students at
this area could include: safety certificates, planning your institution and work in the
• Responsible for production of Revit applications, the building contract, industry.
Models etc. Some technologists develop • Try to join a firm that uses Revit as
• Experience with Point Cloud Data or specialisations in particular areas, such it will benefit you in terms of your
Laser Scanning experience as specification writing, technology, overall career, and also your earning
• Working with Topographical Surveys materials, regulations, or CAD power.
in Revit management, for example. • If you prefer construction detailing
• Production of 2D CAD (Computer rather than architectural concept
Aided Design) Drawings from Job opportunities design, consider joining a
Survey Data Most architectural technologists work construction company rather than
• Assistance in the overall for private architectural practices or in an architectural firm. Architectural
development of the BIM protocols the architectural departments of firms can be demanding with long
and systems Government Departments, Local hours but if you like the work it can
• A suitable qualification in a Authorities or Semi-State Agencies. be manageable.
construction related discipline, But there are also job opportunities Set up an online portfolio. Weebly
primarily, but not restricted to, with building contractors, is a useful option and it’s better to
architectural technology manufacturers or suppliers of building send a potential employer a link to your
products and materials, in private website rather than a big PDF file.
12 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyAREAS OF WORK
ARCHITECTURE
The role of an architect encompasses many aspects of construction projects, and is a unique and
rewarding role requiring both exceptional creativity and accuracy.
Architects fundamentally design technical support to the architect and Skills and specialist areas
structures that need to be built, the design team. Architectural Architects, technicians and
modified or restored, but that is just technicians play an important role in technologists can specialise in a
part of the broader role which they the design process through researching certain type of building such as
normally fulfil within the design and organising technical information commercial or residential
team; which often comprises at least such as user needs, surveys and developments or choose to focus on a
one architect, project managers, building regulations; preparing design specific aspect of architecture such as
architectural technicians/ proposals and specifications for conservation, project management,
technologists, structural engineers, construction work; and sometimes technology or design. There are also
building services engineers, facilities contributing to contract management. some academic positions available.
managers and planners. They are unlike technicians, qualified Some general skills needed include:
usually hired once the initial concept architectural technologists are • Strong communication,
has been decided upon and stay recognised within the construction teamworking and negotiating
involved right through to completion. industry as being able to manage all skills
They may liaise with the client’s aspects of the project from the initial • Spatial sense and dexterity
representatives or those of future designs to contract management • Numeracy and IT skills, especially
tenants and will maintain close and the post-completion phases. the ability to use computer-aided
contact with the contractors once design systems
construction begins. Qualifications required to work in • Creativity
Architectural technicians and architecture • Problem-solving skills
architectural technologists give Degree courses in architecture take • Attention to detail.
five years of full-time study, usually
including a year working in the Graduate opportunities in
profession. This is followed by two architecture
years of approved practical experience, Many graduates find work in
and an examination in professional architectural practices; there are also
practice. To qualify as an architectural some opportunities in big industry
technician/technologist, you need an corporations (such as the property
accredited recognised degree course departments of retailers) and large
(generally taking three years of full- construction employers. The public
time study), followed by two years of sector also has architecture-related
approved practical experience. See vacancies, though these are harder to
the RIAI website (www.riai.ie) and find. Although largely office-based,
the Chartered Institute of architects, technicians and
Architectural Technologists website technologists spend considerable time
(www.ciat.org.uk) for information on on site viewing progress and working
professional qualifications and with the contractors to solve any
membership. design-related problems that arise.
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 13APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships: a proven route
to success
When it comes to deciding on a career path to follow, the route that traditionally comes to
mind is full time study in college or university. While many will take this route to their
chosen career, it might not be for everyone.
S
o is there another way of assessments are carried out during co-operation with the Department of
getting a qualification that will the off-the-job training phases. During Education and Skills, the Higher
help you find employment in the on-the-job training phases of Education Authority, employers and
your chosen career? Apprenticeships apprenticeship the apprentice’s unions.
are a respected alternative to full competence is assessed to specified
time college or university courses. standards by the employer. How do you become an
These programmes alternate phases On successful completion of an apprentice?
of on-the-job and off-the-job training apprenticeship a Level 6 Advanced There are some minimum educational
and development, and provide an Certificate Craft is awarded. qualifications necessary to become an
opportunity to get a recognised Recognised both nationally and apprentice. You must be at least 16
qualification while at the same time internationally, this qualification years of age and have achieved a
gaining practical experience relevant opens up further opportunities in minimum 5 D grades in the Junior
to your chosen career and being paid. career development or progression to Certificate examination or equivalent,
study further. Those awarded the or successfully complete an approved
How does it work? Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft are pre-apprenticeship course. However, in
Generally, the duration of an also eligible for consideration for many instances employers specify
apprenticeship is a minimum of four entry into related degree higher educational qualifications. If
years consisting of alternating phases programmes in the Institutes of you are over 16 years of age and have
of training – three off-the-job phases Technology provided other special at least three years’ relevant work
and four on-the-job phases. The entry requirements are met. experience approved by SOLAS, an
ability to apply the knowledge gained There are currently 27 crafts apprenticeship might be an option for
and skills learnt during off-the-job available under the apprenticeship you also. For some apprenticeships
phases spent in a training centre, programme in Ireland. However, the passing a colourvision test is a
Institute of Technology or another number and range of apprenticeships mandatory requirement. However be
approved training provider, to the available is expected to increase with warned. While this is the minimum
day-to-day operations of a business, the expansion of apprenticeship into entry requirement, most employers
is a key benefit of apprenticeship and new sectors of the economy. The
one which appeals to many. This recently established Apprenticeship
coupled with the benefit of earning a Council has been tasked with mapping
salary while training further out the sectors where apprenticeships
enhances the appeal of can make a real difference to both
apprenticeship. employers and employees.
Apprentices are assessed on a Craft occupations under the
structured on-going basis throughout apprenticeship programme have Get all the information you
their apprenticeship. Modular been designated by SOLAS and come
need on apprenticeships
assessments incorporating course within the scope of the statutory
work, standardised practical apprenticeship system, which is from www.apprentices.ie
assessments and theoretical organised in Ireland by SOLAS in
14 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyAPPRENTICESHIPS
www.apprentices.ie is the
recently launched official
website for apprenticeships in
the construction industry.
assessment of skills, knowledge and
competencies, apprentices become
more productive and reach efficient
worker standards more quickly.
The demand for apprentices is
growing with the recovery of the
economy. There is a wide range of
construction related apprenticeships
currently available including trades
such as brick & stonelaying, carpentry
require a leaving certificate, especially also be able to help with matching & joinery, construction plant fitting,
if you are interested in an electrical or job vacancies to registered individuals and electrical to name but a few. As
plumbing apprenticeship. where possible. Also, the CIF have activity in the construction industry
To start an apprenticeship you recently launched a new website, continues to grow the demand for
must obtain employment as an www.apprentices.ie to assist young skilled employees in these trades will
apprentice in your chosen people who are seeking an increase. A full list of trades covered
apprenticeship by an employer who is apprenticeship in the construction by the standards based
approved by SOLAS to train sector. apprenticeship is available on
apprentices. You may have a relative, Employers too can reap the www.solas.ie and remember to check
neighbour or friend who works in a benefits of apprenticeship. out out www.apprentices.ie for all
craft occupation or you may know a Apprenticeship courses are based on you need to know about
company operating in the trade in uniform, pre-specified and industry apprenticeships.
your area that might consider agreed standards and comply with (© Construction Magazine)
recruiting you as an apprentice. Staff current and future needs of the
in your local Department of Social occupation. Through the systematic
Protection Employment Services development and
office and senior training advisors in
your local education and training
board offices may
Apprentices are assessed
on a structured on-going
basis throughout their
apprenticeship. Modular
assessments incorporating
course work, standardised
practical assessments and
theoretical assessments are
carried out during the
off-the-job training phases.
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 15APPRENTICESHIPS
Demand for construction professionals
and apprentices growing
As students contemplate where their future lies, the demand for skilled craftspeople makes
the construction sector an attractive choice, whether you choose to follow the apprenticeship
or third-level route, writes Antoinette Rourke, lecturer with the Department of Construction
& Surveying at Dundalk Institute of Technology.
R
ecent studies (Chartered property related area finds
Institute of Building, Society of themselves prepared to take up an Construction/building
Chartered Surveyors Ireland and increasing number of jobs in the apprenticeships
government reports) highlight that not traditional sectors of the construction In 2015, there were 2,956 registered
only is there now a considerable industry. Not only this but these apprenticeship applications, 700 of
increase in demand for construction students are also qualified for jobs these were in the construction/
and property related skills, but that and careers in emerging areas such as building field.
there is also a significant shortage of passive building design and Apprenticeships in Construction
graduates needed to meet this growing construction, energy efficiency and include:
demand. This shortfall is predicted to management, sustainable (green) - Brick and Stone Laying
continue for some time and it is now construction, lean construction and - Carpentry and joinery
an excellent time to consider a career in modern methods of construction - Floor and wall tiling
the construction industry. (MMC’s), and building information - Painting and decorating
Construction trades such as modelling (BIM). - Plastering
carpentry & joinery, or plumbing and Another graduate survey carried - Plumbing
electrical, provide graduates with by the Department of Construction & - Wood manufacturing and
excellent job opportunities in the Surveying at DKIT in 2014, showed finishing
construction and property industry, that 68% of graduates from the - Stonecutting and stonemasonry
irrespective of economic conditions. department were employed at home - Wood Manufacturing and
Any student who successfully gains in Ireland in construction, property or finishing
an apprenticeship, and qualifies in a related fields, with the remaining - Construction plant fitting
construction trade, or completes a respondents employed in the uK and
programme of study in a construction/ internationally. © Construction Magazine
16 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyAPPRENTICESHIPS
Structure of apprenticeships
SOLAS is the agency with responsibility for apprenticeship programmes, an area that is
undergoing considerable growth. You can also check out the CIF website, www.apprentices.ie.
A
n apprenticeship is a standard
based education and training
programme. During your
Apprenticeship generally comprises
apprenticeship you will be required to
follow a specific course of training and
of seven phases, three off-the-job
undergo a series of assessments to and four on the job.
confirm that you’ve reached the
required industry standard.
Apprenticeships generally
comprise of seven phases, three off- • Phase 6: Institute of Technology or • Pass all the on-the-job assessments
the-job and four on-the-job. There are College of Further Education. and ensure results are returned to
exceptions to the above, such as At present the general duration of your local Training Advisor.
Aircraft Mechanics, Floor/Wall Tiling apprenticeship is a minimum of four
and Industrial Insulation. years provided that the following is On-the-job training
complied with: Employers have responsibility for
Off-the-job training • Attend all off-the-job training providing on the job training as
• Phase 2: Training Centre phases when scheduled outlined in the below graphic. For
• Phase 4: Institute of Technology or • Pass all the on-the-job assessments further information. Please visit
College of Further Education at the first attempt www.solas.ie.
Apprenticeship phases
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4 Phase 5 Phase 6 Phase 7
ON THE
JOB minimum minimum minimum minimum
with 3 months 6 months 6 months 3 months
employer
OFF THE
JOB
in training Up to 20 10 to 11 10 to 11
centre or weeks weeks weeks
educational
college
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 17APPRENTICESHIPS: FuRTHER INFORMATION
Education & Training Boards
For more information please contact your local Education and Training Board Training
Centre, who can help you with any information regarding becoming an apprentice.
Further information via www.solas.ie.
Cavan & Monaghan Education & Kerry Education & Training Board Louth & Meath Education & Training
Training Board 066 712 1488 Board
Monaghan Office: 047 30888 HQ: Tralee Louth Office: 042 933 4047
Cavan Office: 049 4331044 www.kerryetbtrainingcentre.ie Meath Office: 046 906 8200
HQ: Monaghan (sub-office in Cavan HQ: Navan
Town) Kildare & Wicklow Education & www.rstc.ie
www.cmetb.ie Training Board
Kildare Office: 045 988 000 Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim Education &
Cork Education & Training Board Wicklow Office: 0404 60 500 Training Board
Cork Office: 021 4907 100 HQ: Naas (sub-office in Wicklow) Mayo Office: 094 902 4188
HQ: Cork (greater city area) www.kwetb.ie Sligo Office: 071 914 5025
www.corktrainingcentre.ie Leitrim Office: 071 962 0024
Kilkenny & Carlow Education & HQ: Castlebar (sub-offices in Sligo &
City of Dublin Education & Training Training Board Carrick-on-Shannon)
Board Kilkenny Office - 056 777 0966 www.sligotrainingcentre.ie
01 668 0614 Carlow Office - 059 913 8560
HQ: Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 HQ: Carlow Town Tipperary Education & Training Board
www.cityofdublin.etb.ie www.kilkennycarlow.etb.ie Tipperary North Riding Office:
067 31250
Donegal Education & Training Board Laois & Offaly Education & Training Tipperary South Riding Office:
074 916 1600 Board 052 612 1067
HQ: Letterkenny Laois Office: 057 862 1352 HQ: Nenagh (sub-office in Clonmel)
www.donegaletb.ie Offaly Office: 057 934 9400 www.tipperary.etb.ie
HQ: Portlaoise
Dublin & Dun Laoghaire Education & www.laoisoffalyetb.ie Waterford & Wexford Education &
Training Board Training Board
Dublin Office: 01 452 9600 Limerick & Clare Education & City of Waterford Office: 051 874 007
HQ: Tallaght, Dublin 24 Training Board County Waterford Office: 058 41780
Limerick Office: 061 442 100 Wexford Office: 053 912 3799
Galway & Roscommon Education & Clare Office: 065 682 8107 HQ: Wexford (sub-offices in
Training Board HQ: Limerick (greater city area) Waterford City & Dungarvan)
City of Galway Office: 091 549 400 www.limericktrainingcentre.ie www.wwetbtraining.ie
County Galway Office: 091 874 500
Roscommon Office: 090 662 6151 Longford & Westmeath Education &
HQ: Athenry (sub-office in Training Board Further information
Construction Industry Federation
Roscommon Town) Longford Office: 043 333 4000/
Construction House, Canal Road,
www.gretbtrainingcentre.ie 043 334 6493 Dublin 6
Westmeath Office: 044 934 8389 01 406 6000
HQ: Mullingar contact@cif.ie
www.athlonetrainingcentre.ie www.cif.ie
18 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyPEOPLE AT WORK
People at work
Aidan Maher, Site Manager, Clancy Construction
M
y father was involved in the I started out on a good footing client – you feel a great sense of
construction industry with with the people I worked with there satisfaction. This is also a career
heavy machinery when I and learned a lot from them and where you can gain more
was younger. I suppose that would really enjoyed it. Now I am a site qualifications as you go forward.
have given me an interest at an early manager. I have also worked at There are huge Continuous
age. I also learned a lot from my uncle Waterford Regional Hospital on Professional Development (CPD)
and did a lot of building work and another very big project. It is a tough options there. And Clancy’s have
also worked part-time in a plumbing job. You put in a lot more hours than been extremely supportive. Over the
and heating shop. you might expect but when you past two years I finished my masters
After school I went to the complete a project on time and in WIT – again in project
university of Limerick where I studied everyone is happy – including the management.
Construction Management and
Engineering – a four year degree © Construction Magazine
course.
I went to an external careers
guidance person when I was doing
my CAO and he told me about the
course in uL. It was fairly new and I
decided to go for it. In secondary
school, I didn’t really have
construction subjects but I found the
course very interesting right from the
beginning.
As part of the course we went out
and did work experience and I went
to Clancy’s to do this. Then I finished
the course and, straight afterwards in
summer 2010, I started with Clancy’s
full-time.
Clancy’s have been very, very good
and they have really supported me
after they took me on following my
work experience. As regards my work
for them I started at Phoenix House
in Dublin – at Trinity College. That You put in a lot more hours than you might expect but when
was just off Nassau Street. There was
you complete a project on time and everyone is happy – and
a lot of traffic management and other
challenges to be met. the client is happy – you feel a great sense of satisfaction.
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 19PEOPLE AT WORK
Siobhan O’Shea, Engineer, Clifton Scannell Emerson Associates
I
have been working in the industry There is a great amount of variety the business subjects in school. As I
for just over three years. I graduated that comes with working as part of a wasn’t sure what I wanted to do in
in September 2012 and started multidisciplinary consultancy. One college a course that would offer me
work in CSEA, a multidisciplinary day you can be designing a drainage variety was appealing. Engineering
engineering consulting firm, system using computer software and was the perfect choice. I studied
immediately afterwards. I spent a the next day you can be on-site lifting omnibus engineering in uCD Dublin.
three-month placement in CSEA during manholes. As to what attracted me to This is a common first year which
the summer prior to my final year in work in this profession: I wasn’t sure allows students to get a taste of the
college. After I graduated I was lucky of what I wanted to do when filing variety of the engineering courses
enough to be offered a graduate out my CAO form but I had always available. After my first year I chose to
position within the company. had an interest in maths, science and specialise in civil engineering which is
concerned with the design,
construction and maintenance of the
physical and natural built
environment. It is not just bridges and
road design. Other options available
were mechanical, chemical, electrical
or engineering. Since I graduated new
courses have been made available
including energy systems and
biosystems engineering. A number of
friends from college have gone on to
pursue careers in IT, accounting and
business as well as a number who
stayed within the industry after
graduating. I enjoy the variety of the
work. No two days are the same and
every project is different. Engineering
is a field which is constantly changing
After my first year I and so you have to be able to adapt to
chose to specialise in civil new ways of thinking. It is great to get
to work as part of a team and see
engineering which is
projects develop from paper to reality.
concerned with the I would highly recommend this
design, construction and career choice. The variety of
maintenance of the opportunities and employers looking to
physical and natural built hire engineers is vast. Even if you are
not sure that you want to pursue a
environment. It is not just
career within the field, an engineering
© Construction Magazine
bridges and road design. degree is a great first stepping stone.
20 | Construction & Property 2017 gradireland.com/propertyPEOPLE AT WORK
© Construction Magazine
Joseph Moran, Phase 3 Plumbing Apprentice
I
am in my second year now and on on sites as a labourer and I just think enjoy the welding aspects of the job
my third phase, having just that I found my calling here. in particular.
finished phase two. Overall, this I am meticulous about everything I hope to be finished in two and a
apprenticeship should take me just I do and so it suits me down to the half years and it looks like a good
under four years from start to finish. ground. I also like working with the time to qualify with the economy
I tried out a few jobs before I different materials and the different improving.
started here. I did sports and leisure techniques involved. I enjoy coming in As for taking up this career, I’d
management in college but tore to work now while I hear some of my encourage anyone to go for it – if they
ligaments in my knee twice so I friends complaining about their days are hands-on people.
couldn’t do the practical work and dragging in their office jobs. In school I had the mentality that I
had to think of something else to do. When I finish, my plan is to go to had to go to college and get a degree.
Next I did culinary arts in DIT either Australia or Canada and work I thought an apprenticeship wouldn’t
which I completed. I was working at there but I don’t know for how long be as good – but it’s sometimes
that but couldn’t deal with the hours. yet. This qualification is something nearly better.
My dad said that it was not too you can travel with. So if you don’t like the idea of an
late to do an apprenticeship. When I At the moment I am getting a office job and you are a hands-on
was in secondary school I had worked wide variety of experience and I really person I’d say just go for it.
gradireland.com/construction Construction & Property 2017 | 21You can also read
