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Your career in Building and Construction

Demand for workers in the Australian construction industry has increased by more than 7 per cent in the past five years.*

These numbers will only continue to rise, so there is no better time for people looking to start or advance their career in the building and construction sector. Our UniSA Online construction management degree collates the top skills professionals need to succeed in the building and construction industry, from technical knowledge to effective communication and digital technology capabilities.

*The Australian Construction Industry: Facts and Stats for 2022

 

Top skills employers look for in construction professionals

  1. Strong technical construction skills and an understanding of the entire project lifecycle
  2. Soft skills: The ability to effectively communicate with all stakeholders
  3. Digital skills to use Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools
  4. Project management skills to ensure projects are finished on time, on budget and within quality standards
  5. Knowledge of sustainable construction, environmental impact, economics and law for construction

Building and Construction Jobs

Construction professionals are commonly employed by large construction firms and smaller building subcontractors. They can work on a range of buildings including residential houses, apartment complexes, offices, shopping centres, public buildings, hospitals, and schools.

There are also opportunities to work on heavy industrial or civil construction sites, road, tunnel and shaft excavations, demolition sites, as well as local government works.

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Construction manager

Construction managers oversee and allocate resources for construction projects; work with architects and engineers to check plans and blueprints; manage timetables; determine material and labour costs, and liaise with hire subcontractors and workers.

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Project manager

Project managers coordinate and plan projects; prepare budgets and cost estimates; create schedules and respond to issues and delays. Project managers communicate with clients about progress and ensure safety regulations and codes are met.

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Construction Supervisor

Construction supervisors oversee all construction activities that take place on a work-site. Construction supervisors supervise staff while maintaining a safe and secure work environment by adhering to, and enforcing safety codes.

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Estimator

Estimators compile cost estimates based on variables such as labour, materials and equipment. Estimators work out project costs and create budgets, and analyse quotes from sub-contractors and suppliers.

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Construction planner

Construction planners develop plans on construction projects so the project is completed safely, on time and within budget. Construction planners work with managers and engineers to discuss progress and address issues during construction development.

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Quantity surveyor

Quantity surveyors manage all costs relating to building and civil engineering projects, from initial calculations to final figures. Quantity surveyors seek to minimise the costs of a project, and achieve required standards and quality.

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Building surveyor

Building surveyors ensure buildings are safe to occupy, energy efficient, accessible and meet all legal requirements as a statutory responsibility. Building surveyors assess, certify and inspect building works; work in design, fire safety and energy efficiency.

Industry insight

As we move into more of a high technology industry where more work is done remotely, it’s vital that construction professionals are IT savvy and are competent in using programs like Revit and BIM (Building Information Modelling).

As we move into more of a high technology industry where more work is done remotely, it’s vital that construction professionals are IT savvy and are competent in using programs like Revit and BIM (Building Information Modelling).

Trevor Kokkinakis
Director
TMK Consulting Engineers

Looking to change your career?

It’s never too late to pursue your passion. If you’re looking to make a career change in construction management, studying a university degree is a great option to launch your new career.

UniSA Online’s Construction Management degree will give you the knowledge and skills that employers are looking for while giving you the flexibility to continue working while you study.

Want to move up in your current role?

Are you currently working in the building and construction industry and looking to make the move into management roles? Complement your work experience and expertise in the sector with a tertiary qualification, and take the next step in your construction management career.

People interested in a construction management degree can come from a range of roles and including:

  • Construction trades worker
  • Architectural, building, and surveying technician
  • Civil engineering draftsperson and technician
  • Contractor
  • Builder
  • Site manager
  • Building supervisor

Whether you’re looking to upskill and advance your current career or embark on a career change, UniSA Online’s Construction Management degree will give you the skills to help you achieve your goals.

Study Construction Management 100% online

Develop a career in the construction industry focusing on residential and low-rise buildings and go on to pursue your goals in quantity surveying, building surveying or construction management.

Learn more

UniSA offers a range of other online degrees that can be studied off campus. Some on-campus study may be required.

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