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
• 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.

The standard working week is 37 to 40 hours, but building technicians often have to work overtime in the evening and at weekends. They usually work in an office or on site, depending on their job. Construction sites can be dirty, dusty and noisy. Technicians may have to climb ladders and scaffolding or go underground.

Salaries may range from around £14,000 to £30,000 a year.

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
• 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. Work is available across the UK.

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.

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. Technicians can also progress to construction manager, by gaining further qualifications and relevant experience.

Further details