Building Your Career in the Construction Industry

In response, industry employers are ramping up efforts to recruit new talent and offer training to existing workers to move up to higher positions. This provides a unique opportunity for workers interested in construction and engineering jobs to fill the gap by landing new jobs and taking advantage of ongoing training to gain promotions.

According to the Engineering News-Record report, industry employers are pushing to recruit non-traditional workers to fill the ranks in craft labor, professional and management positions. They seek to improve diversity and bring more candidates into the field.

Training for construction and engineering jobs

Entry level requirements will range from a high school diploma, to basic training and apprenticeships. Construction workers need strong problem solving skills and solid knowledge of working with materials and equipment. But a lot of employers offer on-the-job training and apprenticeships to allow entry level workers to gain the skills they need to be successful. And once in, construction and engineering professionals who pursue continuing training will be poised to take advantage of the fast-paced, high growth predicted in this field.

Engineering certifications require Continued Education Credits (CEUs) or Professional Development Hours (PDHs) to maintain certification, so continued learning should be an ongoing effort for anyone in the field. This benefits companies, too, since providing continuing education for its workforce leads to long-term retention and success.

How to be ready for your next job

For those interested in moving up or moving in to the construction and engineering field, a good way to begin is to scan job postings. Look for positions or companies that interest you and check the qualifications listed. This can guide you to craft a resume best suited to landing that dream job, and help you identify training you need to get there if your qualifications fall short.

As you create a resume, be sure to pull keywords from the job listings and use them as you describe your job experience, qualifications and education. This makes it clear that your resume matches the job you seek. Some employers have automated ways to scan resumes for keywords, and you’ll boost the likelihood of being flagged for followup if you include them.

Even for professionals who are happily employed, keeping an eye on current openings and related qualifications is a smart move. It ensures you know the level of training needed to stay current in your field, and you never know when an irresistible opportunity might present itself.

If you’d like to make a move in the construction or engineering field, WeBuild Staffing can help. WeBuild specializes in staffing environmental, engineering and construction organizations worldwide. Let us help build your career–please contact us.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com . To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com