Building Technician

Building technicians are involved in the construction of buildings and building works.  They may be involved in drawing up plans for use by senior construction and surveying staff, estimating - detailing all the thousands of items needed for a contract purchasing - buying the materials needed at the best price and quality, and checking materials and equipment when they are delivered on site.  They may also attend meetings between contractors, building inspectors and clients, measure and prepare a site for construction, supervise craftworkers and operatives on site, and be responsible for the timing and progress of the work.

A building technician should have a thorough knowledge of building techniques and materials, be reliable, accurate and have a sense of responsibility, be good at solving problems and enjoy working outdoors.  There are around 20,000 people working as building technicians with building contractors and property developers, as well as in surveying and civil engineering practices. There are also opportunities in the public sector, local government, the Civil Service and the health authorities.

It is possible to train as a building technician with an employer as an apprentice. Another route for technicians is to take a full-time course leading to a BTEC national certificate or diploma, or an SQA national certificate group award in engineering. There may be opportunities for adults with experience in engineering or construction.
The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) provides a fully employed and funded apprenticeship. It is also possible to train in craft skills such as bricklaying or plumbing through the Construction Apprenticeship Scheme, and continue to train to be a technician.

Building Technicians at the lower end of the scale can study for higher qualifications and gain skills and experience to progress to posts of increasing responsibility. Building Technicians can also progress to construction manager, by gaining further qualifications and relevant experience.

Jobs of this type currently available

There are currently no jobs of this type available.