Construction Operative / Building Operative / Labourer
The Work
Construction operatives, also known as building operatives, groundworkers or labourers, work on the construction of houses, factories, offices, roads, bridges, airports and many other structures. They prepare the ground for building, marking out and digging shallow holes and trenches for foundations and drains, erecting hoardings, safety signs, barriers and site huts. They also set up and dismantle ladders and scaffolding, prepare building materials such as cement and plaster, transport, stack and remove materials, and lay drains, pipes, manhole covers and inspection chambers.
Common tasks include:
Operatives use a variety of hand and power tools including mechanical mixers. They may also use plant equipment, particularly for the movement of loads. Some construction operatives work closely with other tradespeople, such as bricklayers, as part of a team or 'gang'.
Hours and Conditions
Construction operatives work a basic 39-hour week, often starting early in the morning. Overtime at weekends and evenings is required when deadlines need to be met. Seasonal work is quite common and working away from home for short and long periods may be necessary.
Construction operatives work inside and outside in all weathers and often at heights. Protective clothing such as safety helmets, ear defenders, goggles and boots are worn for most jobs. The work is physically demanding, and involves using a range of tools and carrying heavy or awkward materials.
Skills and Interests
To be a construction operative you should:
Training
Training is normally provided on the job with day or block release
at local colleges or training providers leading to NVQ / SVQ qualifications.
You work towards NVQs / SVQs in Construction and Civil Engineering Services
(Construction Operations) levels 1 and 2.
Options include:
A three-year Construction Apprenticeship Scheme (CAS) is open to people aged between 16-25. You are registered by an employer and earn a wage while following a structured training programme.
New Deal schemes may be available for people who have been unemployed for six months or more. These provide an allowance and training and can lead to a job and further training through the CITB, a company or private training provider. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus for details.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
Construction operatives work for building or engineering contractors,
local authorities and other public organisations. Contractors tend
to use temporary staff or self-employed operatives rather than offer
permanent jobs. There are opportunities overseas in contract work.
It is possible for operatives to progress to technician level or to become supervisors, and to move into specialised areas of work.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees minimum wage rates annually.
Trainee operatives earn up to £12,500 a year.
With qualifications, operatives earn around £16,500 a year.
Experienced construction operatives with additional responsibilities may earn up to £20,000 a year.
Overtime and various allowances can significantly increase income. Those self-employed negotiate their own rates.
Further Information
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CITB - Construction Skills
Tel: 01485 577577
www.citb.org.uk
