Construction Industry Federation

Award for Work Experience / Career Investigation within the Construction Sector

To enter this competition a student must have undertaken either a Work Experience Placement or provided a Career Investigation (or both) based on a career in the Construction Sector.

To Apply

Students apply to the competition in the normal way. Your application will be eligible for any of the main prizes and will also be included in this new category if your entry is associated with a career in the construction sector.

Whether someone prefers hands-on work, technical expertise, or managerial tasks, there are career options for everyone, from skilled trades to project management. The sector also supports individuals with different levels of education, from traineeships to apprenticeships and advanced degrees, offering room for growth and advancement at all career stages. Construction is an industry which offers tremendous growth , providing stable and rewarding job opportunities in a wide range of specialties. There are so many exciting careers to choose from in this sector. Click on the tiles below to see what areas of the sector might excite you!

Below you will just some examples of these jobs:

  • Quantity Surveyor - Manages project costs and budgets, ensuring that construction projects are completed within financial constraints. They estimate costs, prepare contracts, and monitor expenditures.
  • Bricklayer - Constructs walls, partitions, and other structures using bricks, blocks, or stones. Bricklayers are skilled in laying materials with precision to ensure stability and durability.
  • Carpenter - Specializes in working with wood to build, install, and repair structures such as frameworks, stairways, doors, and cabinets in buildings.
  • Planner - Develops detailed project schedules, coordinating timelines and resources to ensure that construction projects are completed on time. Planners often use software tools to manage and forecast project phases.
  • Plumber - Installs, maintains, and repairs water supply, drainage, and heating systems in buildings. Plumbers ensure that systems are efficient and comply with safety standards.
  • Electrician - Installs and maintains electrical systems, including wiring, lighting, and electrical appliances, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Civil Engineer - Designs, plans, and oversees infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, tunnels, and water systems. They focus on the structural integrity and functionality of construction projects.
  • Crane Operator - Operates cranes to lift, move, and place heavy materials or equipment around the construction site. Crane operators must have strong technical knowledge to safely operate heavy machinery.
  • Site Health and Safety Officer - Ensures that construction sites comply with health and safety regulations. They conduct safety audits, provide training, and address potential hazards to prevent accidents.
  • Scaffolder - Erects and dismantles scaffolding structures, which provide temporary platforms for workers to reach higher areas of a construction site safely.
  • Site Engineer - Oversees technical aspects of construction projects, ensuring that designs are implemented correctly. They work closely with architects and engineers to manage on-site operations.
  • Architect - Designs buildings and structures, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. Architects create blueprints and work with engineers and contractors to bring their designs to life.

Go to the CareerExplorer to research a full list of occupations.

Head over to Construction, Architecture and Property Sector to fully research careers and educational pathways in this sector.

In association with
Construction Industry Federation Fáilte Ireland Esero Ireland An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta & Gaelscolaíochta TourismCareers.ie GAISCE The President's Award
Supported by
Transition Year Programme Leaving Cert Vocational Programme Leaving Cert Applied Programme Department of Education and Youth