Job Description

This job is part of our sustainability series:  > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers

Builders construct new buildings from beginning to end or repair and maintain existing buildings, they are often self employed or in a partnership and may hire sub contractors to do some of the work such as plumbers, bricklayers, carpenters etc.  They can be involved in small projects such as building a wall or an extension to working on new housing estates or offices.  

(You might also consider: Bricklayer, Labourer, Painter and Decorator)

Entry Requirements

You can get into this role through a college course, an apprenticeship or your could take a university course:

College

You could do a college course such as:

• Construction and the Built Environment Extended Diploma Level 3
• Building and Property Maintenance Diploma Level 2.

You will need a minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) including English and/or maths for a Level 3.

The following local colleges offer courses in Construction:

• City College Norwich
• The College of West Anglia
• West Suffolk College

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course.

Apprenticeship

You could do this through an Intermediate or Advanced apprenticeship which will help you gain practical skills and knowledge of the trade.

You'll usually need

• GCSE's in English and maths for an intermediate apprenticeship (level 2) If you don't have maths and English GCSE you may be able to do these as part of your apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship.

Click here to search for an apprenticeship.

University

A university course would give you the skills and experience you need to progress to a construction management role or start your own business.

Relevant courses include:

• Construction Management
• Construction and the Built Environment 
• Construction Project Manager 

You'll usually need 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree.

Click here to search for a suitable course.

Career Path and Progression

• Manager
• Boat builder
• Senior Assistant 
• Work self employed 

Required Skills

• Reasonable level of fitness
• Able to work in a team or on your own initiative
• Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines
• Have good practical skills 
• Attention to detail

Salary Range

The average starting salary of a builder is around £22,000.  This will go up with experience and progression.  If you decide to become self-employed and start up your own business you will be able to set your own rates and have your own clients which will give you the potential to earn a lot more money.