Building Technician
Job Description:Building technicians support engineers, surveyors and architects on construction projects.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could:
- estimate construction costs to support bids for new work projects
- negotiate materials, equipment and labour costs with suppliers
- check supplier quality
- help to plan the methods used in each construction stage
- draft construction plans and blueprints using CAD software
- monitor build progress against completion dates
- give update reports at progress meetings
- prepare construction sites before work begins
- supervise teams of contractors (leadership skills)
Skills:
You’ll need:
knowledge of building and construction
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- knowledge of public safety and security
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- thinking and reasoning skills
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- organisational skills
- leadership skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Building Technician, specific qualifications are not always mandatory. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial in preparing for a career in building technology and construction-related roles. Building Technicians typically require a combination of education, professional training, and practical experience. Here are some subjects that can be helpful:
- Mathematics: Strong math skills are essential for Building Technicians, as they often work with measurements, calculations, and construction plans.
- English Language: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are important for documenting work, communicating with colleagues and clients, and understanding construction specifications.
- Science (Optional): Courses in science, particularly physics, can provide insights into principles related to structural stability, material science, and the behavior of materials in construction.
- Design and Technology (Optional): Courses in design and technology can introduce you to architectural and construction principles, building materials, and design processes.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT): Basic computer skills are beneficial, as Building Technicians often use software for drafting, project management, and data analysis.
- Geography (Optional): Courses in geography can be useful for understanding the geographical and environmental aspects of construction projects.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
University
You could take a foundation degree or higher national diploma in:
- construction
- the built environment
- surveying
- civil engineering
Courses that give you the opportunity to gain work experience through internships, placements or a year in industry may give you an advantage.
College
You can do a college course, which may help you to get a job as a trainee technician.
UK Courses include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Apprenticeship
The following apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
- surveying technician advanced apprenticeship
- construction support technician advanced apprenticeship
- building services engineering technician higher apprenticeship
- construction design and build technician higher apprenticeship
- construction site engineering technician higher apprenticeship
The exact apprenticeship you take will depend on the type of company, your job role and duties.
Registration
In the UK, you’ll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site. This may vary from country to country.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work on a construction site or in an office.
Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience you could move into construction project management or specialise in estimating, CAD drafting or buying.
You could find work with:
- national and international building firms and contractors
- central and local government
- organisations that do their own construction work, like utility companies, major retailers and hospitals