Entry-level construction roles in the UK

Getting into the construction industry can be done in a few ways. One is taking on an entry-level job, which means you start out at the beginning in terms of experience, although in some cases you may have existing knowledge from an apprenticeship or work experience.  

Entry-level construction roles give you a chance to work up within the industry, learning as you go, meaning more people can access the career they want in construction. 

The options available for those with no experience 

Like we mentioned, some people will have experience in construction from training. But what if you have none at all? Don’t worry, there are still plenty of options. 

Construction apprenticeship 

Open to anyone aged 16 or over, an apprenticeship will let you study for a qualification while you work to gain experience too. They are available across almost every type of construction role, so you could be studying and working towards your dream role from the very start. 

As a construction apprentice, you’ll be employed full time. There are 100's of diverse, rewarding construction apprenticeships to choose from. You could be behind a drawing board, developing project management skills, training as a craftsperson and more.

To find an apprenticeship, click here.

Traineeships 

Traineeships are available in England and Wales to help get ready for an apprenticeship or job. There are slightly different rules for eligibility depending on which country you apply from, but if you need experience for your CV or need to try out a role to see if it’s right for you, this is a great way forward. Learn more about traineeships.  

T Levels 

Only available in England, these are equivalents to three A Levels. T levels can help you prepare for a role in construction with industry experience in the form of a 45-day placement, plus you’ll study in a classroom. Learn more here.  

Work experience 

Qualifications are important, but work experience is where you can truly get an idea of a job role, develop skills, and put them into practice. Plus, it can help you if you apply for apprenticeships or other training schemes as well as jobs. Learn more about work experience.  

Some entry-level roles to consider 

Here are just some of the entry-level roles you could consider, but there are plenty more. Browse all jobs in construction here. 

General construction operative 

In the role of general construction operative, you’ll be involved in a lot of different tasks, many of them manual labour-related such as preparing ground, loading materials and accessing tools. It’s a great all-round role for those wanting to get stuck in on a construction site. Learn more. 

Trainee maintenance operative 

Maintenance is key to any construction project, so you’ll be a vital part of the process as a trainee maintenance operative. If you’re a fan of DIY, this could be the perfect job.  

Trainee painter & decorator 

If you’re handy with a paintbrush or can really bring a space to life with your decorating skills, this role could be for you. Painting and decorating is key to developing all kinds of construction projects, from homes to commercial buildings. Find out the typical salary and hours here. 

Trainee quarry worker 

If you have a passion for power tools, quarry workers use them to dig, drill, and transport materials like slate and gravel to construction sites. Find out how to become one here.  

Trainee wall and floor tiler 

Working on any number of construction projects, as a trainee wall and floor tiler you will be learning how to work with tiles and the tools of the trade on all kinds of surfaces.  

Construction graduate schemes 

A graduate scheme is an entry-level job with a training programme alongside. This way you get to know the company while you gain experience. They are slightly more structured than a graduate job, with more support while you learn. There are various graduate schemes available in construction, so if you are finishing up your course at university, start browsing so you can apply in good time. For schemes across the UK try gradcracker.  

Find out about your options for entering the construction industry 

So, you have a lot of options for getting into the construction industry, even if you didn’t study a related course at university. 

However, if you’re looking for a job role already it’s best to start with the Construction Leadership Council or Talentview.  

For employers looking for support or advice on recruitment and apprenticeships, head to gov.uk , or gov.wales for Welsh employers.  

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