FROM THE CEO
Welcome to the 2025 Master Builders Victoria Careers in Construction booklet.
Starting a career in construction is like laying the foundation of a building—it’s essential to get it right from the beginning. At Master Builders Victoria (MBV), we’re here to ensure you have the tools and skills you need to construct a successful future in this dynamic industry.
Our aim is to empower tomorrow’s builders, tradespeople and building specialists with the knowledge and confidence required to lead and innovate. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, we’re committed to supporting you at every stage of your career. Our courses are delivered by industry professionals who bring real-world experience to the classroom, and we offer flexible training solutions designed to fit your busy schedule because we know that life doesn’t stop when you’re building your future.
The construction industry is evolving rapidly, and so are the skills that employers value most. At MBV, we stay ahead of the curve by collaborating with industry experts and leveraging cutting-edge research. As a proud partner of Building CRC 4.0, we are shaping the future of sustainable building practices, including innovations like the circular economy.
One of the best ways to kick-start your career is by becoming an MBV Student Member. It’s your gateway to valuable industry connections, insights, and resources that can help you get your career off the ground and keep it building strong.
Our training programs stand out not just for their content but for how they’re delivered. From immersive learning experiences at our Leadership Simulation Centre to customised training modules tailored to industry needs, MBV equips you with practical skills to tackle challenges head-on.
MBV’s commitment to innovation is matched by our focus on student outcomes. We work closely with employers and industry leaders to ensure our courses provide the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in realworld construction environments. Whether through virtual simulations or other tailored approaches, we prepare our students for the demands of a rapidly changing industry.
Above all, our dedicated training team is here to support you throughout your learning journey. We actively seek student feedback to continually refine our courses and ensure your training experience is as effective and engaging as possible.
We’re excited to welcome you into the MBV community and look forward to helping you unlock your potential in an industry full of opportunities. With MBV by your side, you’ll have everything you need to build a successful and rewarding career. `
Michaela Lihou CEO
MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA
WHO WE ARE
Established in 1875, Master Builders Victoria has been a long-standing voice for the building and construction industry. Our aim is to raise the profile of the industry as a provider of rewarding career outcomes.
A career in the construction industry offers variety and diversity. You'll have the chance to develop invaluable skills and knowledge that can be continually built upon.
We understand that sometimes the best pathway can be hard to determine. To help with this, we have a dedicated and friendly team to demystify and simplify the information available for those looking to enter the construction industry and to assist those currently in the industry with their career progression.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS? TRADE CAREERS
These hands-on roles are obtained by completing an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a three to four year course, involving on-the-job work with an employer as well as training with a Registered Training Organisation. At the end of your apprenticeship, you'll come out with a Certificate III level qualification in your chosen trade. Undertaking a trade is also a great step towards becoming a registered builder.
NON-TRADE CAREERS
Non-trade roles tend to be less hands-on and could include management positions or specialist jobs including building surveying, OHS and building design. Qualifications in these areas can be obtained through a number of ways. Depending on your area of interest, this could include completing a university degree, TAFE course or a traineeship.
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
Only approximately 14% of the construction workforce is made up by women and we'd like to see that percentage increase (Victorian Skills Authority 2024). Traditionally the industry has been seen as male-orientated in the past, but this need not be the case.
At Master Builders, we understand that the building and construction industry offers a wide-range of diverse roles that can be suited to anyone and everyone. Women are welcomed and appointed into varied roles, both in small and large construction companies, and are achieving tremendous success. Take Melanie Fasham, past President of Master Builders Victoria, as a great example. Melanie was our first female President and a fantastic role model for aspiring female builders. Her career demonstrates the success that young women can aspire to.
BUILDER REGISTRATION
WHAT IS BUILDER REGISTRATION?
You can view builder registration as a type of certification. Being a Registered Builder allows individuals to legally carry out different types of building work. It also shows that the individual has a certain level of skill, knowledge and experience in a specific type of construction or trade. In Victoria, the organisation with which a builder becomes registered, is the Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC).
TYPES OF BUILDER REGISTRATION
DOMESTIC BUILDER REGISTRATION
If an individual wants to work on a domestic project, directly for a client, that is worth over $10,000, they must be a registered builder.
Individuals can be registered in a Domestic Builder (Limited) category which is specific to a trade or type of work. Limited categories include carpentry, bricklaying, tiling, structural landscaping, construction of swimming pools and many more.
Individuals can hold just one or multiple Limited categories depending on the work they do.
With further experience, they can be registered as a Domestic Builder (Unlimited) meaning they can carry out all types of domestic work.
COMMERCIAL BUILDER REGISTRATION
In commercial construction, individuals must be registered to work on any project that requires a building permit. As with Domestic registration, there are Commercial Builder (Limited) categories and a Commercial Builder (Unlimited) category.
WHAT DO REGISTERED BUILDERS DO?
There's a lot more to being registered than the physical building work! Registered builders manage other trades, liaise with clients, plan works and monitor timelines, OHS and other requirements. Builders are running their own companies which means they also need to deal with budgets and finances, and marketing themselves to prospective clients.
HOW DO I BECOME A REGISTERED BUILDER?
Becoming registered requires a combination of on-site experience, training and knowledge. Typically, individuals will need at least three years' post-apprenticeship experience before they can apply.
The application process includes completing an application form, sitting a computer test and attending an interview where their knowledge is thoroughly put to the test.
WHAT MAKES THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SO GREAT?
THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY GOING FOR A JOB IN CONSTRUCTION IS A GREAT MOVE. HERE'S OUR TOP FIVE PICKS.
1
With construction, you’re not bound to one job for the rest of your life. There are plenty of opportunities to develop extra skills and undertake extra training to specialise in new areas or work your way up the ladder.
2
Working on a construction project means you can see all the work you’ve done and, at the end of the day, stand back and say, “I helped build that!”
3
You can take your skills with you around the world.
4
You can gain exposure to all types of projects, whether it’s constructing houses, schools, high-rises or roads, and see the positive impact your work has on your local community.
5The industry is very diverse. A job in construction will give you the opportunity to work with a variety of different people in different trades and professions. What’s best, is that everyone is working together to reach a common goal.
CAREER MAP
VOCATIONAL MAJOR
PRE-APPRENTICESHIP OR APPRENTICESHIP
QUALIFIED TRADESPERSON OR SUBCONTRACTOR
TAFE OR UNIVERSITY (Certificate IV, Diploma or Degree)
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
• INSPECTOR
• SUPERVISOR
• PROJECT MANAGER
• SURVEYOR
• ESTIMATOR
• ... AND MORE
REGISTERED BUILDER (LIMITED or UNLIMITED)
(Must have a minimum of three years' relevant practical industry experience)
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
APPRENTICESHIPS
WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP?
To become qualified in a trade, you first must complete an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a 3-4 year qualification that combines coursework from your training organisation with on-the-job employment in your chosen trade.
TYPES OF APPRENTICESHIPS
SCHOOL-BASED APPRENTICESHIP
If you're in high school and completing year 10 or higher, you can commence a school-based apprenticeship. Your school-based apprenticeship will be undertaken part-time, spending part of your week completeing course work and working with your employer. The other hours will be spent at school as usual. While you won't become qualified before you graduate from high school, this is a great way to get a headstart in your career in construction.
APPRENTICESHIP
If you are no longer in high school, or are looking to leave high school, you can complete an apprenticeship full time. The exact breakdown of hours spent with your employer vs hours spent with your training provider will be negotiated between all three parties as part of your training contract.
PRE-APPRENTICESHIP
A pre-apprenticeship involves completing a Certificate II qualification and typically takes 3-6 months to complete. Unlike an apprenticeship or a school-based apprenticeship, you do not need to be employed to start your studies. This is a great way to obtain experience in the construction industry before commiting to an apprenticeship.
While it is not required to complete a pre=apprenticeship before commencing an apprenticeship, it can be beneficial to do so. Many employers do prefer it, as it shows you have some existing skills in place. It will also take some time off the amount of schooling you do in your apprenticeship if you have completed a preapprenticeship.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
The first step when getting started in an apprenticeship is finding an employer. Next, you and your employer will decide on a TAFE or training provider for your course. Your employer will then register you with an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider, who will assist in drafting and registering your training contract. Once your training contract has been signed, and you have been enrolled in your course, you can officially commence your apprenticeship.
If you are still in school and want to start a schoolbased apprenticeship, your first step will be to speak
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
PREMIER OF VICTORIA, 2022
<3% 14% OF CONSTRUCTION TRADE WORKERS IN VICTORIA FEMALE PARTICIPATION IN CONSTRUCTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE IN AUSTRALIA
VICTORIAN SKILLS AUTHORITY, 2024
Traditionally the industry has been seen as maleorientated in the past, but this need not be the case.
At Master Builders Victoria, we understand that the building and construction industry offers a wide-range of diverse roles that can be suited to anyone and everyone.
Women are welcomed and appointed into varied roles, both in small and large construction companies, and are achieving tremendous success. Take Perin Breakall, Master Builders Victoria 2025 State Apprentice of the Year, as a great example. Perin recently completed a carpentry apprenticeship. Perin is excited to use her trade skills to inspire the next generation of apprentices! Perin is a fantastic role model and her career so far demonstrates the success that young women can aspire to.
Hear more from Perin in the video below.
REBECCA - CARPENTER & 2024
MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA
APPRENTICE OF THE YEARINSPIRATION AWARD
WHAT I DO
I am a third year carpenter apprentice. I work for a high end building company who build architecturally designed homes.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
I always loved helping my dad with DIY projects around the house. In year 11 and 12 my favourite subject was woodworking. Once I finished year 12 I worked at a plant nursery where I got into landscaping. I knew I wanted more and after a while I finally got the courage to reach out to a builder. Once I started my apprenticeship in carpentry I knew I was where I belonged.
WHAT I LOVE
I love the challenge, being a female on site and changing the stigma. I love being able to show that this is a career that us females can also excel in. I love working on the job site and learning so much. Once I have completed something I love standing back and going ‘wow I built that.'
MY CAREER
ISAAC
- GLAZIER &
2023 MASTER
BUILDERS STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
WHAT I DO
I'm a Glazier by trade, and a leadlight specialist. My work covers a vast range of jobs from commercial double glazing to designing lead lights, but at my core I simply seek to bring a smile to those around me.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
One day at a time, I've had many struggles and victories but the truth is, a great trades person is not defined by the absence of struggle, but by what they do with it. The only mistakes I regret are the ones I never tried to fix.
WHAT I LOVE
In life, it's Important to be able to put one's heart and soul into something, and being able to create things both unique and dynamic that will bless people, is a true and utter joy.
BRICK AND BLOCK LAYING
WHAT DO BRICKLAYERS AND BLOCKLAYERS DO?
Bricklayers and blocklayers work with clay, concrete and mud bricks and blocks on structures like walls, arches and floors.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Spreading mortar to bind bricks into rows, shapes and designs
› Sealing foundations with damp-resistant materials
› Repairing and maintaining veneer and brick structures
› Reading and working from plans and specifications to determine the amount of materials required and dimensions of the project
Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Brick & Blocklaying)
Ongoing Experience
Registered Domestic Builder (Limited) Supervisor or Project Manager
BOILERMAKING
CABINET MAKING & SHOPFITTING
WHAT DO BOILERMAKERS DO?
Boiler makers fabricate, assemble, install and repair heavy metal structures. These strucures may include boilers, large tanks, and pressure vessels.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Fabricate and assembling metal structures
› Operatring machinery to cut, shape and manipulate metal
› Fusing metal pieces together by welding
› Reading blueprints and detailed specifications for projects
› Maintainance and repairs on existing metal structures
› Installing and testing built structures to ensure safety and design standards
WHAT DO CABINET MAKERS AND SHOPFITTERS DO?
Cabinet makers construct or repair furniture of flat panel, solid timber, or timber-based construction. Shopfitters construct or renovate commercial properties, including office and retail settings.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Operating woodworking machines and hand tools to fabricate and repair cabinets and furniture
› Preparing and designing plans for contracts
› Studying drawings and plan cutting and shaping
› Gluing, fitting, and clamping components together using clamps or a clamping machine
CARPENTRY
WHAT DO CARPENTERS DO?
Carpenters construct, install, finish and repair wood and metal structures and fixtures. They can work on domestic, commercial, civil and maintenance projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Reading plans and specifications to determine dimensions and amount of materials required
› Erecting sub-floor, floor and wall framework, pitch roofs, erecting suspended ceilings and laying timber floors
› Building timber decks, pergolas, verandahs and carports
› Installing doors, windows, staircases, kitchens and hardware fixtures
› Cladding buildings with sheet or weatherboard
PERIN - CARPENTER & 2024 MASTER BUILDERS VICTORIA APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
WHAT I DO
I’m a carpenter working on residential renovations and new homes including all aspects of carpentry from framing through to fit off.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
After having multiple apprenticeship applications knocked back fresh out of school, I had pretty much given up on my dream of becoming a carpenter and settled for a job as a Building Estimator. Years later I decided to chase an apprenticeship again as I still had a keen interest in going hands-on in the industry. I was able to get an apprenticeship as a mature-age student and it’s been the best move I’ve ever made.
WHAT I LOVE
The best part about my job is getting to build a family’s dream home, knowing that it has been crafted with care and will be appreciated and enjoyed for years to come.
ALEXANDRA - CARPENTER & 2025
STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEARDEVELOPING LEADER
WHAT I DO
I’m a qualified Carpenter and have recently moved to a Project Coordinator position working on residential custom homes. I support the site supervisor, the director and our close-knit team while learning the operations behind each build.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
I was previously an OHS Officer at a large manufacturing company in Bendigo but I wanted a career that felt purposeful and fulfilling through hands-on work. So, I took the leap into an apprenticeship with the support of family and friends. I’ve always worked up to leadership positions throughout my working life and I’m proud to continue that on in the construction industry.
WHAT I LOVE
I love that my work challenges me to grow while also making a tangible impact. It’s inspiring to be part of an industry that values skill, leadership and real results for peoples’ dreams.
CIVIL CONSTRUCTION & PLANT OPERATOR
CONCRETING & FORMWORK
WHAT DO CIVIL CONSTRUCTION WORKERS AND PLANT OPERATORS
DO?
Civil construction workers aid in the construction of roads and footpaths and bridges. Plant Operators operate heavy machinery to load and transport minerals.
TYPICAL TASKS
Civil Construction Workers:
› Compacting, levelling and spreading materials to form roads and paths
› Operating machinery
› Installing trench supports
Plant Operators:
› Operate machinery
› Maintaining and repairing machinery
› Burrowing resources from the earth
WHAT DO CONCRETERS AND FORMWORK CARPENTERS DO?
Concreters are responsible for pouring, spreading, curing, and finishing concrete on various structures including floors, footpaths, and bridges. Formwork Carpenters construct moulds for wet concrete in foundations and other concrete structures.
TYPICAL TASKS
Concreters
› Mixing materials to create concrete onsite
› Using concreting plant, tools, and equipment
› Cutting joints and edges into hardened concrete
Formwork Carpenters
› Assembling forms using wood, steel, or plastic
› Building new forms on top of previously poured concrete for high rise structures
DEMOLITION WORKS
WHAT DO DEMOLITION WORKERS DO?
Demolition workers fully or partially dismantle structures both manually and mechanically. They work on domestic and commercial structures.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Using hand tools, plant and equipment for demolition works
› Operating machinery (e.g. excavators and skidsteer loaders)
› Stripping internal fixtures and fittings
› Erecting and dismantling scaffolding
WHAT DO ELECTRICIANS DO?
Electricians install and maintain electrical power, communications and lighting and control systems
TYPICAL TASKS
› Install electrical equipment including lighting, appliances, heaters, signs and motors
› Read electrical layouts to correctly locate switchboards, power outlets, lights and switches
› Install insulated cables and connecting supplies, outlets and fitings using hand or power tools
› Inspect electrical systems, equipment and components to identify hazards and defects and correcting problems
› Work in line with compliance and relevant codes
GLAZIER
JOINER
WHAT DO GLAZIERS DO?
Glaziers install glass in windows, doors, walls, mirrors and display cabinets on domestic and commercial projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Interpreting plans to work out materials and quantities
› Using cutters and drills to shape and notch glass
› Assembling pre-fabricated glass units such as display cases and show enclosures
› Installing shop fronts
WHAT DO JOINERS DO?
Joiners often work in a workshop setting. They cut and shape timber for fittings and structures and also install these. Joinery work includes shopfitting and staircase manufacturing.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Manufacturing window frames, cabinets and staircases
› Fitting staircases, partition walls, doors and window frames
› Installing skirting boards, doors and surrounds, cupboards, shelving and door handles
III in Joinery)
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION
WHAT IS LANDSCAPING?
Landscape Construction, also referred to as hard landscaping, involves the building of outdoor structures.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Constructing retaining walls, paths, paved areas, fences, decks and water features
› Constructing landscaped gardens using plans and specifications
› Understanding plants and their culture
› Operating excavation and earth-moving equipment
› Installing drainage and irrigation systems
SEBASTIAN - LANDSCAPER & 2025 MASTER BUILDERS STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
WHAT I DO
As a residential landscaper I work with architectural plans and specifications to achieve a vision from plan to reality. I create green, functional spaces outdoors that the client will forever appreciate.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
I first started a pre-apprenticeship of carpentry and landscaping along side my VCE studies. The idea of working outdoors, building things from start to finish and obtaining a diverse skillset, set my path on landscaping. I had many opportunities to develop my skills. I had a positive 'yes' attitude and managed to use my skillset to showcase what I can do.
WHAT I LOVE
I am passionate about creating gardens that incorporate the use of sustainable principles, material selection and the use of native flora. I also find immense fulfillment in the act of creating something with my own hands. It's incredibly rewarding to witness the physical results of my efforts, knowing that I crafted them myself.
Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Landscape Construction)
Ongoing Experience
Registered Domestic Builder (Limited) Supervisor or Project Manager
PAINTER & DECORATOR
WHAT DO PAINTERS AND DECORATORS DO?
Painters and Decorators apply paint, varnish and wall paper to protect and decorate interior and exterior surfaces on varying projects from homes to industrial settings.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Calculating quantities using plans and specifications
› Mixing paint to specific colours by hand or using computerised equipment
› Applying decorative finishes such as stencils, glaze, graining and marbling
MIKEELY - PAINTER & 2024 STATE APPRENTICE OF THE YEARJUNIOR APPRENTICE
WHAT I DO
I’m a commercial painter specialising in high rise buildings, warehouses, offices and train stations. We do anything from basic brush and roller painting to spray painting, line marking and some decorative painting.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
I stared a pre-apprenticeship in painting after attending uni for a few months and finding that it wasn’t for me. The pre-apprenticeship was a free TAFE course and from there I developed a love for my trade and found a great employer to take me on full time for my apprenticeship.
WHAT I LOVE
I love the hands on and physical nature of working in a trade and that there’s a creative aspect to painting as well. Being able to work with a great team and knowing that every day is a new challenge is something I’ll always enjoy.
Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Painting and Decorating)
Ongoing Experience
Registered Domestic Builder (Limited) Supervisor or Project Manager
PLASTERER
PLUMBER
WHAT DO PLASTERERS DO?
Plasterers work in two areas - Fibrous Plastering and Solid Plastering. They work on domestic and commercial buildings.
TYPICAL TASKS
Fibourous Plasterers
› Making, applying and fixing the internal linings of rooms
› Measuring rooms and cutting plasterboard
› Spraying fibrous materials over surfaces
Solid Plasterers
› Applying decorative and protective coverings of plaster, cement, or similar materials to the interior and exterior of buildings
WHAT DO PLUMBERS DO?
Plumbers install, repair and maintain pipes and fittings used for water distribution and waste water disposal in domestic and commercial buildings.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Determining the layout for plumbing pipes and fixtures from plans and specifications
› Assembling pipes, tubing and fittings
› Detecting and locating leaks in pipes or fixtures
› Repairing or replacing broken pipes
› Ensuring that water, waste and drainage systems meet building codes, standards and safety requirements
RENEWABLE ELECTRICIAN ROOF TILER & SLATER
WHAT DO RENEWABLE ELECTRICIANS DO?
Renewable Energy Electricians install and maintain renewable energy systems.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Install, set up, test, trouble shoot and maintain renewable energy applications and systems
› Repair renewable energy apparatus
› Install and replace low voltage current transformer metering
› Design grid-connect photovoltaic power supply systems
WHAT DO ROOF TILERS AND SLATERS DO?
Roof Tilers and Slaters install new roofs or repair or replace older roofs.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Covering the roof structure with materials such as tiles, slates, or shingles to form a waterproof surface
› Erecting ladders and tile elevators
› Laying overlapping layers of tiles to fit around vents and chimneys
› Carrying out risk assessments
STONEMASON
TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
WHAT DO STONEMASONS DO?
Stonemasons carve stone and lay stonework into place. They repair and replace stone on buildings and cut and polish stone for use in kitchen bench tops and vanity units.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Constructing walls using stone slabs
› Fitting stonework in window surrounds, archways, ornamental features, walls and headstones
› Fitting cladding using mortar and specialised fittings
› Setting stone or marble in place, according to a layout or pattern
WHAT DO TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS DO?
Traffic Controllers direct the speed and flow of vehicles to ensure the safety of workers, drivers and pedestrians. They may work at construction sites, next to road works, during public events or as part of a coordinated emergency response.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Coordinating, setting up, maintaining, and removing traffic control
› Directing traffic and pedestrians around areas of disruption with changed vehicle or road conditions
› Operate road signs or use hand signals to direct the flow of traffic and pedestrians
WALL AND FLOOR TILER
WHAT DO WALL AND FLOOR TILERS DO?
Wall and Floor Tilers lay tiles on external and internal surfaces to provide protective and decorative finishes. They work on both domestic and commercial projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Working with a variety of tile types such as ceramic, concrete, slate, marble and glass tiles
› Preparing surfaces by removing old tiles, grout, cement and adhesive
› Using tile-cutting tools to fit and shape tiles around corners, edges and other fittings
› Reading plans and using these to mark-up and measure surfaces
WHAT DO WATERPROOFERS DO?
Waterproofers apply a barrier or membrane to walls and floors to protect them from moisture, which could cause damage to the building interior. They work on domestic and commercial projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Working on interior (e.g. bathrooms and kitchens), exterior (e.g. balconies and garages) and below ground areas
› Applying and installing sealant and other waterproofing materials
› Preparing surfaces for waterproofing application
› Using waterproofing tools and equipment
BUILDING INSPECTOR
WHAT DO ARCHITECTS DO?
Architects design buildings and prepare technical drawings and specifications for their construction. They work on a variety of building types
TYPICAL TASKS
› Liaising with clients and the construction project team to prepare a design brief
› Producing sketches, designs and detailed drawings both manually or with ComputerAided Design (CAD) software
› Discussing cost estimates
› Preparing project and specification documents for builders and other trades
› Checking on the progress of construction to ensure that specifications are being met
WHAT DO BUILDING INSPECTORS DO?
Building Inspectors play an important role in monitoring building standards. Building Inspectors commonly become Building Surveyors once they have gained further experience.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Carrying out inspections at critical points during domestic and commercial construction on behalf of a building surveyor
› Carrying out specialised inspections such as safety audits
› Preparing written inspection reports
› Identifying non-compliant work
BUILDING SURVEYOR
WHAT DO BUILDING SURVEYORS DO?
Building Surveyors provide independent oversight during the construction of a project. They require extensive knowledge of regulations, standards and construction techniques.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Issuing building and occupancy permits
› Providing advice, before and during construction, about meeting regulations
› Undertaking inspections of building work
› Ensuring buildings are safe, accessible and energy efficient
› Giving directions to fix non-compliant work where authorised
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
WHAT DO CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS DO?
Construction Managers plan, coordinate and direct the construction of commercial and largerscale domestic projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Achieving time, quality and budget and safety requirements
› Creating project schedules and estimates of construction stage completion
› Liaising with clients and project consultants and ensuring contractors meet their requirements
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR
DRAFTSPERSON
WHAT DO CONTRACT ADMINISTRATORS DO?
Contract Administrators manage contracts for commercial and larger-scale domestic projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Reviewing, negotiating and finalising contracts and preparing packages of work for different sub-contractors
› Managing and tracking schedules, expenditure and budgets
› Completing project compliance documents, managing document control and issuing invoices
WHAT DO DRAFTSPERSONS DO?
Draftpersons design buildings and prepare technical drawings and specifications for their construction. They generally work as part of a project team with other professionals such as architects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Assisting other professionals such as architects, surveyors and construction managers
› Interpreting design drawings
› Preparing plans for building work
› Preparing documentation relating to permit applications and building permits
Trade Qualified or Industry Experience Degree (e.g. Construction Management)
Further Training
(e.g. Certificate IV or Diploma) Junior or Graduate Position
Contract Administrator
Project Manager
Advanced Diploma
Ongoing Experience and Exam
ENGINEER
WHAT DO ENGINEERS DO?
There are several different types of engineer that are involved in construction work including Civil, Structural and Electrical Engineers. They are responsible for planning, designing and overseeing the construction and maintenance of various structures or components of these structures.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Determining materials, construction methods and programs for on-site activities
› Creating and interpreting drawings, plans and other documentation
› Analysing structural systems and risks
› Liaising with clients, architects, engineers and other project consultants
$ ESTIMATOR
WHAT DO ESTIMATORS DO?
Estimators prepare cost estimates and quotations, audit projects and manage construction costs. Sometimes, on larger projects, those who hold this role are called Quantity Surveyors.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Communicating with builders, contractors, architects, engineers, suppliers and clients
› Studying architectural and engineering drawings and specifications
› Preparing a Bill of Quantities which lists the costs of individual components
› Reviewing design changes to assess the effects on cost
(e.g. Construction Management)
(e.g. Certificate IV or Diploma)
HEALTH AND SAFETY PROJECT MANAGER
WHAT DO HEALTH AND SAFETY PROFESSIONALS DO?
Those in this role are known as either Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) or Work Health and Safety (WHS) professionals. They develop, implement and review policies and procedures to ensure a safe workplace.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Identifying hazards and risks, inspecting equipment and conducting incident investigations
› Educating and advising other workers on best practices in OHS
› Creating and implementing health and safety management plans and systems
› Understanding and interpreting OHS or WHS legislation
Qualification
(e.g. Certificate IV or Diploma)
WHAT DO PROJECT MANAGERS DO?
Project Managers ensure that time, budget and quality needs are met, generally on larger-scale domestic, commercial and civil projects.
TYPICAL TASKS
› Coordinating the project team and liaising with the client
› Interpreting architectual and engineering drawings
› Monitoring timelines, planning works and project budgets and meeting OHS requirements
› Contributing to process and procedure improvements
Trade Qualified or Industry Experience Degree
(e.g. Construction Management)
Specialisation
(e.g. environmental health and safety) Health and Safety Manager
Further Training
(e.g. Certificate IV or Diploma) Junior or Graduate Position
Ongoing Experience
Project Manager
APPRENTICESHIP FAQS
HOW LONG DO APPRENTICESHIPS GO FOR?
The average apprenticeship is four years. Some trades, such as bricklaying, are a three year apprenticeship.
HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO START AN APPRENTICESHIP?
In Victoria, you need to be 15 years old to start an apprenticeship.
DO I NEED TO FINISH VCE TO START AN APPRENTICESHIP?
It is not compulsory to have completed VCE, however you can complete a school based apprenticeship alongside VCE or VCE VM.
IS THERE ANY SUPPORT FOR SCHOOLBASED APPRENTICESHIPS?
The Victorian government has launched the Head Start program to provide support to year 10-12 students completing a school-based apprenticeship. They can assist with pathway and career planning and provide one-on-one support. For further information go to www.vic.gov.au and search apprenticeships.
DO I UNDERTAKE ANY SCHOOLING WHILST DOING AN APPRENTICESHIP?
Yes. This is usually done at a TAFE or other Registered Training Organsation and is often called ‘trade school’. The average schooling is 24 weeks over the time of your apprenticeship. This will be less if you have completed a pre-apprenticeship.
IS THERE ANY SUPPORT FOR WOMEN IN THE CONSTURCTION INDUSTRY?
The National Association for Women in Construction (NAWIC) and Women Building Australia both strive to champion and empower women within the construction industry. Further information can be found at www.nawic.com.au and www.womenbuildingaustralia.com.au
WHAT IS THE PAY RATE FOR APPRENTICES?
You can visit FairWork’s Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) to find out what you should be paid as an apprentice. Go to calculate.fairwork.gov.au
DO I NEED A DRIVER’S LICENSE?
You do not need a driver’s license to be taken on as an apprentice. However with locations of jobs constantly changing over the duration of an apprenticeship, it makes things much easier for everyone if you do have your license. Many employers will prefer you to have your license and access to a vehicle.
I AM CLASSIFIED AS AN ADULT APPRENTICE (OVER 21) AND WANT TO START AN APPRENTICESHIP. WHY IS IT SO HARD?
It’s often harder to find an employer as they are required to pay you more as an adult apprentice. Reaching out to existing contacts and contacting medium/large builders is a good start.
IS THERE ANY FINACNIAL SUPPORT WHEN YOU START AN APPRENTICESHIP?
As an apprentice, you may be eligible to access financial support through an Australian Apprentice Support Loan. Further information can be found at www.apprenticeships.gov.au
WILL I RECEIVE ANY OTHER ALLOWANCES?
A daily travel allowance is payable to apprentices unless they are picked up and dropped off from their home or are provided with a fully-maintained vehicle for work and personal use.
WILL
I RECIEVE ANY OTHER PERKS
As an apprentice registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA), you can apply for a discount on your vehicle registration. For more information on eligibility and how to apply go to www.vicroads.vic.gov.au and search trade apprentice registration discount.
WHERE ELSE CAN I GET SUPPORT?
The Victorian government has recently launched The Apprentice Helpdesk. The Helpdesk is a free service for apprentices, parents of apprentices, support workers, training and teaching staff and employers. The Helpdesk can provide you with information, guidance and support on a number of issues including training contacts, rights and responsibilities, training and progression, safety and wellbeing and more. For more information visit www.apprenticeships.vic.gov.au/helpdesk
MY CAREER
ISAAC - CARPENTER & 2023 MASTER BUILDERS BALLARAT
JULIE - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATOR
WHAT I DO
As a Contracts Administrator I work on a number of projects from start to finish ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. I also consult with architects and clients alike to ensure the smooth-running of the project.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
At a young age I always helped my Dad out with DIY jobs around the house and took a keen interest in how things are built. It was that interest that led me to study Construction Management at university. When I graduated, I got a job as an Estimator and then moved into Contracts Administration. My dream, is to work my way up to become a Project Manager.
WHAT I LOVE
I love that I do something new every day. Seeing a project through to finish with a happy client is very rewarding.
APPRENTICE OF THE YEARDEVELOPING
LEADER
WHAT I DO
I’m a qualified carpenter, mainly working on residential construction sites, both renovations and new builds.
HOW DID I GET HERE?
I started as a labourer with a civil construction company. At the time my boss was building my family’s home. I completed a pre-apprenticeship in carpentry and a year later started my apprenticeship. Four years on and I still enjoy what I do every day.
WHAT I LOVE
Being able to stand back at the end of the day or week and see what has been accomplished. From very minor things to large scale things. Seeing the final product is always exciting
