Builder

Environments

Builders organise the materials and equipment required to construct a building, as well as manage the construction of a building.

Builders plan building constructions for buildings such as   houses, hotels, schools, shops, office blocks or hospitals. They supervise the construction of the building to ensure that it follows building standards, is safe and is well made.

Builders manage all aspects of the construction of a building and ensure that there are enough labourers and materials. They talk with other people who may be involved in the building project, such as architects, engineers and local council inspectors, to ensure that the building is constructed according to the plan.

Builders examine and interpret a clients' plans or arrange for an architect or drawer to develop plans to meet building regulations and client requirements. They may also arrange the  submission of plans to local councils for approval and arrange inspections of the building work at various stages throughout the construction process.

Builder

In addition, a builder will usually be required to:
  • submit quotes or prices for the project to clients
  • organise and coordinate subcontractors to carry out various stages of the building and negotiate rates of pay
  • calculate the quantities of building materials required for a project and order these from building suppliers
  • supervise the work of subcontractors to ensure buildings are of an acceptable standard and are proceeding according to schedule
  • coordinate payment of accounts for materials and wages for subcontractors
  • communicate with lawyers and banks on matters relating to loans and contracts for building projects
  • perform various parts of the building work personally.

Entry to this job usually requires completion of formal qualifications. A range of training options exist, with formal qualifications available at certificate, diploma and degree levels.

Training is available through completion of an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery. The length of your training can vary and may be undertaken both on and off the job. Entry requirements  generally require at least successful completion of Year 10

Did You know?

The Great Pyramid of Giza consists of 2,300,000 blocks each weighing 2.5 tons!

There are more than 10 million bricks in the Empire State Building!

Great Pyramid of Giza