Job Description

Roofers re-slate and tile roofs, fit skylight windows and replace lead sheeting and cladding. You'll work at heights, using ladders and scaffolding. The job is physically demanding and dirty, and you'll be exposed to all weather conditions.

Entry Requirements

You can get into this job through:

Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through an intermediate apprenticeship as a roofer.

This can take up to 2 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.

You'll usually need some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship.

Work

You could start as a roofing labourer and do further training while you work to get a roofing qualification.

Career Tips

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a roofing operative. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

You can do specialist training courses if you're interested in heritage and conservation skills in roof slating and tiling.

You'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site.

You can join the Institute of Roofing for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Go Construct and the Roofing Industry Alliance have more information on construction careers and qualifications.

Career Path and Progression

You can improve your career options with a qualification like the Level 3 (NVQ) Diploma in Roofing Occupations. You can do specialist skills training in areas like heritage conservation, thatching or installing solar panels.

With experience, you could become a roofing surveyor, estimating costs, dealing with contracts and working with architects. You could also become a site manager or move into technical sales. Other options include training, setting up your own business or working as a roofing consultant.

Related careers you may be interested in:

• Glazier
• Plumber
• Steeplejack
• Thatcher
• Carpenter

Required Skills

• Physically fit
• Good numerical skills
• Methodical and accurate
• Attention to detail
• A good head for heights

Salary Range

£13,000 to £32,000