Construction and Civil Engineering

The Construction and Civil Engineering sector is a major employer in East Sussex. The number of jobs per person is 46% above the national average. This means the industry is always looking for candidates at all levels. It covers a wide range of job roles associated with building and maintenance. 

These roles can be focused on the trades such as plumbers, electricians and carpenters or the design and building of structures such as houses, schools and hospitals or developing our infrastructure such as roads, bridges and railways. In East Sussex, plumbing, heating and ventilation specialists are some of the most in demand roles along with production and site managers. 

The workforce is large and recruits people from all ages and backgrounds with a broad range of skills and experiences. This includes people starting their very first job or people looking to change the direction of their career.

For an overview, press play on the video below:

Construction and civil engineering employers encourage people with a problem-solving nature to consider the sector. Enjoying overcoming challenges and finding solutions are key desirable skills for progressing your career.

Construction and civil engineering jobs have a reputation for being roles that require physical strength and working outdoors in all conditions but that is not always true. Many roles are office-based or a mix of indoors and outdoors. There is an increasing demand for those with the latest digital design skills to support the sector. 

The workforce is ageing across East Sussex. This means that more and more jobs will become available as people retire.  

The sector is rapidly changing, adapting the materials, technology and processes it uses to reduce the impact on our environment. It is also pro-actively diversifying, looking to recruit more women across the workforce.

There are a range of training options for those wanting to join the sector. These range from short courses designed to get you the necessary health and safety qualification to be allowed on site as a labourer to higher level apprenticeships, degrees and doctorates incorporating the very latest building practices and techniques. 

Get some more information on the skills and abilities needed in    by watching the job role videos below. 

Hit ‘Next’ after the video  to see Typical tasks and FAQs on the role.