Planning & management
Construction and project managers make sure everything is completed on time and to budget as a building is being completed. Problem solving, negotiation skills and people management all form a big part of the work. Once the buildings up, and the occupants are in, facilities managers look after everything from security to general maintenance - making this a dynamic and rewarding job where no two days are the same.
Choose A Profession
Planner
Entry Requirements
There are no specific academic entry requirements to train as a planner, although GCSE/Standard Grade passes in Science, Maths and Technology will be helpful for measurements and estimations. It is helpful to be trained in an aspect of construction or building, to ensure you understand methods and processes, and how the whole job fits together.
There are apprenticeship schemes available, and employers are happy to offer work experience to young people hoping to get into the trade. You will be trained on-site and issued day release to college to complete theory training. You will usually begin your training as an assistant technician, and then progress on to more supervisory roles.
The Benefits
Assistant planners can expect to earn about £18,000. A senior planner will earn about £30,000. Salaries in London are higher. For further information on salaries, see professional institutions or industry press.
The Job
It's the planner's job to make sure that a project is completed with the right resources, and to ensure that they're all delivered safely, on time, and in the right amount and quality.
The People
Planners work with construction managers and organise the sequence and timing of construction activities to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Once construction starts, plans may be updated and modified to ensure the project stays on track.
Planner Amy Smith has interesting work information to share - check it out.