construction

Work Description

Production managers and directors in construction direct and co-ordinate resources for the construction and maintenance of civil and structural engineering works including houses, flats, factories, roads and runways, bridges, tunnels and railway works, harbour, dock and marine works and water supply, drainage and sewage works.

Qualification

There are no pre-set entry standards. Entry is possible with either a degree or equivalent qualification and/or relevant experience, via apprenticeships or S/NVQs in Management at levels 3 to 5. On-the-job training is provided and professional qualifications are available.

Job Tasks

liaises with other managers to plan overall production activity and construction activities, sets quality standards and estimates timescales and costs; receives invitations to tender, arranges for estimates and liaises with client, architect and engineers for the preparation of contracts; plans, directs and co-ordinates the construction and maintenance of civil and structural engineering works, including demolition, open-cast mining works and pipeline and piling; receives reports upon work in progress to ensure that materials and construction methods meet with specifications and statutory requirements and that there are no deviations from agreed plans.

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Work Description

Civil engineers undertake research and design, direct construction and manage the operation and maintenance of civil and mining engineering structures.

Qualification

Civil engineers usually possess an accredited three or four-year degree in civil engineering or engineering science or an accredited Higher National Diploma or Certificate. The status of ‘incorporated engineer’ is obtained upon the completion of further training at work and associate membership of a chartered engineering institution. The status of ‘chartered engineer’ is achieved through the completion of postgraduate training and full membership of a chartered engineering institution.

Job Tasks

undertakes research and advises on soil mechanics, concrete technology, hydraulics, water and waste water treatment processes and other civil engineering matters; determines and specifies construction methods, materials, quality and safety standards and ensures that equipment operation and maintenance comply with design specifications; designs foundations and earthworks; designs structures such as roads, dams, bridges, railways, hydraulic systems, sewerage systems, industrial and other buildings and plans the layout of tunnels, wells and construction shafts; organises and plans projects, arranges work schedules, carries out inspection work and plans maintenance control; organises and establishes control systems to monitor operational efficiency and performance of materials and systems.

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Work Description

Architects plan and design the construction and development of buildings and land areas with regard to functional and aesthetic requirements.

Qualification

Entrants require a professional qualification in architecture that will encompass an accredited degree and postgraduate qualification, and at least two years practical experience.

Job Tasks

liaises with client and other professionals to establish building type, style, cost limitations and landscaping requirements; studies condition and characteristics of site, taking into account drainage, topsoil, trees, rock formations, etc.; analyses site survey and advises client on development and construction details and ensures that proposed design blends in with the surrounding area; prepares detailed scale drawings and specifications for design and construction and submits these for planning approval; monitors construction work in progress to ensure compliance with specifications.

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Work Description

Town planning officers direct or undertake the planning of the layout and the co-ordination of plans for the development of urban and rural areas.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess either an accredited degree or postgraduate qualification and must have completed at least two years’ work experience in town planning before gaining professional status.

Job Tasks

analyses information to establish the nature, extent, growth rate and likely development requirements of the area; consults statutory bodies and other interested parties to ensure that local interests are catered for and to evaluate competing development proposals; drafts and presents graphic and narrative plans affecting the use of public and private land, housing and transport facilities; examines and evaluates development proposals submitted and recommends acceptance, modification or rejection; liaises with national and local government and other bodies to advise on urban and regional planning issues.

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Work Description

Quantity surveyors advise on financial and contractual matters relating to, and prepare bills of quantities for, construction projects and provide other support functions concerning the financing and materials required for building projects.

Qualification

Entry is through professional training and membership of an appropriate professional organisation. Entry to professional examinations will require GCSEs/S grades and A levels/H grades, a BTEC/SQA award, a degree or equivalent qualification. Candidates usually undertake a period of probationary training and professional assessment.

Job Tasks

liaises with client on project costs, formulates detailed cost plan and advises contractors and engineers to ensure that they remain within cost limit; examines plans and specifications and prepares details of the material and labour required for the project; prepares bills of quantities for use by contractors when tendering for work; examines tenders received, advises client on the most acceptable and assists with preparation of a contract document; measures and values work in progress and examines any deviations from original contract; measures and values completed contract for authorisation of payment.

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Work Description

Chartered surveyors conduct surveys related to the measurement, management, valuation and development of land, natural resources, buildings, other types of property, and infrastructure such as harbours, roads and railway lines.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess an accredited degree, equivalent qualification and/or postgraduate qualification. Entrants must also have successfully completed a probationary training period and professional assessment. Entry requirements to professional bodies vary.

Job Tasks

surveys, measures and describes land surfaces to establish property boundaries and to aid with construction or cartographic work; surveys mines, prepares drawings of surfaces, hazards and other features to control the extent and direction of mining; surveys buildings to determine necessary alterations and repairs; measures shore lines, elevations and underwater contours, establishes high and low water marks, plots shore features and defines navigable channels.

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Work Description

Chartered architectural technologists provide architectural design services, negotiate construction projects and manage the development of projects from conception to completion.

Qualification

Chartered status requires an accredited degree and membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. Professional practice also entails structured Continuing Professional Development.

Job Tasks

develops construction project briefs and design programmes; advises clients on methods of project procurement and forms of contract; advises on environmental, regulatory and legal requirements and assesses environmental impact; prepares and presents design proposals and manages and coordinates design team; monitors compliance with design, statutory and professional requirements, undertakes stage inspections; administers contracts and certification and manages project handover; evaluates and advises on refurbishment, recycling and deconstruction of buildings; manages health and safety and carries out design stage risk assessments.

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Work Description

Job holders in this unit group manage and oversee major construction and civil engineering projects and major building contracts for quality of work, safety, timeliness and completion within budget; forecast travel patterns and develop strategies for managing the impact of traffic-related demand.

Qualification

Entrants normally possess a degree in a relevant subject or equivalent qualification and/or substantial work experience at an appropriate level. Further Continuing Professional Development is available in some areas.

Job Tasks

draws up budgets and timescales for new construction projects based on clients’ requirements; briefs project team, contractors and suppliers; assembles information for invoicing at the end of projects; plans work schedules for construction projects based on prior discussion with architects, surveyors etc.; hires and may supervise site staff, establishes temporary site offices, takes delivery of materials; regularly inspects and monitors progress and quality of work, ensures legal requirements are met; identifies defects in work and proposes corrections; records, monitors and reports progress; forecasts the impact on traffic and transport of new developments (e.g. shopping centre); assesses schemes to manage traffic such as congestion charging and parking controls; examines accident ‘blackspots’ to improve road safety; writes reports for funding bids and planning authorities and acts as expert witness.

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Work Description

Building and civil engineering technicians perform a variety of technical support functions to assist civil and building engineers.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess a relevant BTEC/SQA award or an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III. The status of engineering technician is obtained after a period of further training at work and upon gaining the membership of a professional engineering institution.

Job Tasks

sets up apparatus and equipment and undertakes field and laboratory tests of soil and work materials; performs calculations and collects, records and interprets data; sets out construction site, supervises excavations and marks out position of building work to be undertaken; inspects construction materials and supervises work of contractors to ensure compliance with specifications and arranges remedial work as necessary.

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Work Description

Architectural and town planning technicians perform a variety of technical support functions to assist architects and planners with the design of buildings and the layout of urban and rural areas.

Qualification

Entrants possess a variety of qualifications including GCSEs/S grades, a BTEC/SQA award, an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III or a degree. Professional qualifications are available and membership to professional institutions may be required for some posts.

Job Tasks

investigates proposed design with regard to practicality, cost and use; prepares building plans, drawings and specifications for use by contractors; liaises with engineers and building contractors regarding technical construction problems and attends site meetings on behalf of architect; surveys land and property uses and prepares report for planning authority; issues development permits as authorised; checks that completed work conforms to specifications.

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Work Description

Draughtspersons prepare technical drawings, plans, maps, charts and similar items.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades, BTEC/ SQA awards, an appropriate GNVQ/GSVQ or A levels/H grades. Further training consists of courses of study and supervised practical experience.

Job Tasks

examines design specification to determine general requirements; considers the suitability of different materials with regard to the dimensions and weight and calculates the likely fatigue, stresses, tolerances, bonds and threads; prepares design drawings, plans or sketches and checks feasibility of construction and compliance with safety regulations; prepares detailed drawings, plans, charts or maps that include natural features, desired surface finish, elevations, electrical circuitry and other details as required; arranges for completed drawings to be reproduced for use as working drawings.

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Work Description

Smiths and forge workers operate or direct the operation of power hammers and presses to shape heated metal to requirements and to make and repair a variety of metal articles by heating, hammering and bending.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements. Training is usually via apprenticeships administered by professional associations and lasting up to four years. Apprenticeships incorporate technical training and practical experience and lead to recognised awards and membership of professional bodies.

Job Tasks

reads and interprets order or blueprint to determine operational requirements; heats or supervises the heating in furnace of metal to be forged; positions or directs the positioning of heated metal on anvil or other work surface; operates or directs operation of press or hammer and repositions workpiece between strokes; uses special forging tools to shape and cut metal as required; bends or shapes metal by hand forging methods using hammers, punches, drifts and other hand tools; tempers and hardens forged pieces, as required, by quenching in oil or water; fits and secures horses shoes.

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Work Description

Moulders, core makers and die casters make sand, loam and plaster moulds and cores for casting metal and pour or inject molten metal into dies by hand or machine.

Qualification

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades or have relevant practical experience. Training is by apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. Apprenticeships in Engineering Material Processing at NVQ/SVQ Level 3 are available.

Job Tasks

positions moulding frame over pattern, fills it with sand, loam, or plaster and compacts by hand or machine; transfers mould unit to oven for baking or hardens by injecting carbon dioxide; separates mould from pattern and repairs damage or imperfections in mould surfaces; applies refractory bonding solution to moulds and dies to prevent molten metal fusing with sand; fits cores in mould to form hollow parts in casting; prepares casting pit with vents to allow the escape of gases, scoops molten metal from furnace using ladle and pours it into die or die casting machine.

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Work Description

Sheet metal workers mark out, cut, shape and join sheet metal using hand or machine tools to make and repair sheet metal products and components (excluding vehicle bodywork).

Qualification

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is usually via apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. Apprenticeships in Engineering Materials Processing, Engineering Assembly and Engineering Construction are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to assess job requirements; uses template, measuring instruments and tools to mark out layout lines and reference points; uses hand or machine tools to bend, roll, fold, press or beat cut sheet metal; assembles prepared parts and joins them by bolting, welding or soldering; finishes product by grinding, filing, cleaning and polishing; repairs damaged metal parts such as copper sheets and tubes by beating, riveting, soldering, welding and fitting replacement parts; checks final product to ensure conformity with specifications.

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Work Description

Metal plate workers and riveters mark off, drill, shape, position, rivet and seal metal plates and girders to form structures and frameworks.

Qualification

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is usually via apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. Apprenticeships in Engineering Materials Processing, Engineering Assembly and Engineering Construction are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications and uses rules, scribes and punches to mark out metal plate with guidelines and reference points; cuts metal plate to markings using hand or machine tools; uses machine tools to bend, curve, punch, drill and straighten metal plate as required; uses hydraulic jacks to position and align metal platework or frame for welding and bolting; selects suitable rivets and rivets together metal plates and girders; seals seams with caulking compound, smoothes welds, fixes metal doors, metal collars, portholes, tank and hatch covers and performs other metal plate finishing tasks using a variety of hand and power tools.

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Work Description

Welding trades workers join metal parts by welding, brazing and soldering, and cut and remove defects from metal using a variety of equipment and techniques.

Qualification

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades or an appropriate GNVQ/GSVQ. Training is typically by apprenticeship incorporating practical experience and technical training. NVQs/SVQs are available at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Welders must normally pass a competency test in the particular type of welding to be carried out.

Job Tasks

selects appropriate welding equipment such as electric arc, gas torch, etc.; connects wires to power supply, or hoses to oxygen, acetylene, argon, carbon dioxide, electric arc, or other source and adjusts controls to regulate gas pressure and rate of flow; cuts metal pieces using gas torch or electric arc; guides electrode or torch along line of weld, burns away damaged areas, and melts brazing alloy or solder into joints; cleans and smoothes weld; checks finished workpiece for defects and conformity with specification.

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Work Description

Workers in this unit group install pipe systems and maintain and repair pipes in major utilities, industrial and construction settings and sites.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, although some employers may expect entrants to possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is usually via apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. NVQs/SVQs in Mechanical Engineering Services (Plumbing) at Levels 2 and 3 are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine layout of piping; measures and cuts required lengths of copper, lead, steel, iron, aluminium or plastic piping using hand or machine tools; installs pipes for heating, ventilating, fire prevention, water and similar systems in industrial and construction settings, including oil rigs and terminals, sewerage systems and other mains networks; fits piping into position and joins sections by welding, soldering, cementing, fusing, screwing or by other methods; tests pipe work for leaks and makes necessary adjustments.

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Work Description

Job holders in this unit group operate machines to drill, bore, grind, cut, mill or otherwise shape metal workpieces.

Qualification

There are no formal academic requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades. Engineering apprenticeships, BTEC and City and Guilds qualifications are available together with on-the-job training. NVQs/ SVQs at Level 2 are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine appropriate method, sequence of operations and machine setting; selects and fixes work-holding devices and appropriate cutting, shaping, grinding and/or forming tools; sets machine controls for rotation speeds, depth of cut and stroke, and adjusts machine table, stops and guides; operates automatic or manual controls to feed tool to workpiece or vice versa and checks accuracy of machining; repositions workpiece, changes tools and resets machine as necessary during production run; instructs operators on the safe and correct method of operation of the machine.

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Tool makers, tool fitters and markers-out mark out metal for machining and fit, assemble and repair machine and press tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and other tools.

Qualification

There are no formal academic requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades. Engineering apprenticeships, BTEC and City and Guilds qualifications are available together with on-the-job training. NVQs/ SVQs at Level 2 are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine appropriate method and sequence of operations; marks out reference points using measuring instruments and tools such as punches, rules and squares; operates hand and machine tools to shape workpieces to specifications and checks accuracy of machining; assembles prepared parts, checks their alignment with micrometers, optical projectors and other measuring equipment and adjusts as necessary; repairs damaged or worn tools.

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Work Description

Metal working production and maintenance fitters erect, install and repair electrical and mechanical plant and industrial machinery, fit and assemble parts and sub-assemblies in the manufacture of metal products and test and adjust new motor vehicles and engines.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades, a GNVQ/ GSVQ or a BTEC/SQA award. Apprenticeships in Engineering Maintenance at NVQ/SVQ Level 3 are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine appropriate methods and sequence of operations; fits and assembles parts and/or metal sub-assemblies to fine tolerances to make marine engines, prototype metal products, agricultural machinery and machine tools; fits and assembles, other than to fine tolerances, prepared parts and sub-assemblies to make motor vehicles, printing and agricultural machinery, orthopaedic appliances and other metal goods; examines operation of, and makes adjustments to, internal combustion engines and motor vehicles; erects, installs, repairs and services plant and industrial machinery, including railway stock, textile machines, coin operated machines, locks, sewing machines, bicycles and gas and oil appliances.

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Precision instrument makers and repairers make, calibrate, test and repair precision and optical instruments such as barometers, compasses, cameras, calibrators, watches, clocks and chronometers.

Qualification

Some GCSEs/S grades qualifications may be required. Training is usually via an apprenticeship including work experience and practical and technical training leading to recognised awards.

Job Tasks

examines drawings or specifications to determine appropriate methods, materials and sequence of operation; marks out and machines aluminium, brass, steel and plastics using machine tools such as grinders, lathes and shapers; tests watches and clocks for repair to diagnose faults and removes, repairs or replaces damaged and worn parts; tests completed timepiece for accuracy using electronic or other test equipment; carries out service tasks such as cleaning, oiling and regulating; checks prepared parts for accuracy using measuring equipment, assembles parts and adjusts as necessary using hand and machine tools; positions, aligns and secures optical lenses in mounts; tests, adjusts and repairs precision and optical instruments.

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Work Description

Jobholders in this unit group install, service and repair air-conditioning and refrigeration systems in factories, offices, shops and homes.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements although some employers may request GCSEs/S grades. Training is via an apprenticeship, or BTEC, City & Guilds or other specialised qualification.

Job Tasks

examines the proposed site to establish if installation plans are practical; plans layout of the system (pipework, ducts and control panels); produces detailed estimate of costs of the work; plans work schedule and installs the system; inspects and tests the installation; carries our maintenance checks and repairs.

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Work Description

Vehicle technicians, mechanics and electricians accept calls for help and repair and service the mechanical parts and electrical/electronic circuitry and components of cars, lorries, buses, motorcycles and other motor vehicles, and repair and service auto air-conditioning systems.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades or an equivalent qualification. Training is undertaken off- and on-the-job. NVQs/SVQs at Levels 2 and 3 are available. Apprenticeships at NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3 are available and take three to four years to complete.

Job Tasks

visually checks, test drives or uses test equipment to diagnose engine and mechanical faults; removes, dismantles, repairs and replaces defective parts and prepares new parts using appropriate tools; reassembles, tests, adjusts and tunes the appropriate parts, systems or entire engine; carries out routine maintenance checks on oil and air filters, brakes and other vehicle parts/systems; diagnoses faults in electrical/electronic circuitry, removes faulty components and fits replacements; checks condition of electrical/electronic systems and carries out servicing tasks; installs additional electrical amenities such as radio/CD players, aerials; repairs and services air conditioning, heating and engine-cooling systems.

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Job holders in this unit group construct and repair the bodies of road vehicles, and fit interior and exterior fittings to vehicle bodies.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades or an equivalent qualification. Apprenticeships at NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3 are also available and take between three to four years to complete. Off- and on-the-job training is provided. NVQs/SVQs at Levels 2 and 3 are available.

Job Tasks

diagnoses job requirements or ascertains work specifications from drawings or instructions; selects, cuts, shapes and assembles materials to form parts of vehicle underframe, framework and body; repairs damage to chassis and engine mountings using hydraulic rams, jacks and jigs; hammers out dents in bodywork, fills in small depressions or corroded areas in solder, plastic or other filler compound and replaces body panels using hand and power tools; installs and repairs interior fittings including seats, seatbelts and fascia in cars, sinks and special features in caravans and mobile shops; positions, secures and repairs external fittings including windows, doors, door handles, catches and roof attachments.

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Work Description

Vehicle paint technicians use spray equipment to apply paint, cellulose and other protective or decorative materials to the bodywork of motor vehicles.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades or an equivalent qualification. Off- and on-the-job training is provided. NVQs/SVQs at Levels 2 and 3 are available. Apprenticeships at NVQ/SVQ Levels 2 and 3 are also available and take between three to four years to complete.

Job Tasks

applies masking material to protect areas not to be coated and removes any external fixtures; consults vehicle colour code, chooses appropriate paint or mixes paint to achieve desired consistency and colour; uses hand or electrostatic spray gun to coat surfaces, adjusting nozzle and pressure valves of the gun as required; removes masking materials and refits external fittings after completion of spraying; cleans and maintains spray equipment, protective clothing and spraying booth.

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Work Description

Jobholders in this unit group fit, service, repair and overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies. Licensed aircraft engineers are coded to UNIT GROUP 3113.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades, a GNVQ/ GSVQ or a BTEC/SQA award. Apprenticeships in Engineering Maintenance at NVQ/SVQ Level 3 are available. NVQs/SVQs in Aircraft Engineering Maintenance are available at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings, manuals and specifications to determine appropriate methods and sequence of operations; fits and assembles parts and/or metal sub-assemblies to fine tolerances to make aircraft engines; replaces engine components or complete engines, installs and tests electrical and electronic components and systems in aircraft; examines and inspects airframes and aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to detect wear, cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems; maintains, repairs and rebuilds aircraft structures, functional components, and parts; maintains comprehensive repair logs.

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Work Description

Boat and ship builders and repairers construct, install and repair wooden structures and fittings, and shape, position, rivet and seal metal plates and girders to form the metal structures and frameworks for marine craft.

Qualification

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is usually via apprenticeship including practical experience and technical training. Apprenticeships in relevant aspects of engineering and construction are available at NVQ/SVQ Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine job requirements; uses rules, scribes and punches to mark out metal plate with guidelines and reference points and cuts plates using appropriate tools; uses machine tools to bend, curve, punch, drill and straighten metal plate as required and positions and aligns metal platework or frame for welding and bolting; rivets together metal plates and girders, seals seams, smoothes welds, fixes metal doors, collars, portholes, tank and hatch covers; selects and measures appropriate wood and cuts, shapes and drills to specification using saws, planes, chisels and other power or hand tools; aligns and fixes prepared wood pieces by screwing, nailing, gluing and dowelling to form decking, small wooden marine craft and their interiors and fittings; maintains and repairs woodwork and fittings.

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Work Description

Rail and rolling stock builders and repairers erect, fit, assemble and repair rolling stock parts and sub-assemblies, and test and adjust new engines for trains.

Qualification

Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades, a GNVQ/ GSVQ or a BTEC/SQA award. Apprenticeships in Engineering Maintenance at NVQ/SVQ Level 3 are available.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine appropriate methods and sequence of operations; fits and assembles parts and/or metal sub-assemblies to make train engines; examines rolling stock for defects, removes, replaces and repairs faulty parts; inspects and tests new and repaired machinery for conformity with standards and specifications; oils and greases train engines; maintains record of repairs and maintenance carried out.

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Work Description

Steel erectors fit and erect structural metal framework for buildings and other structures such as metal chimneys.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to assess job requirements; erects ladders, scaffolding or working cage; directs hoisting and positioning of girders and other metal parts and checks alignment; arranges for or undertakes bolting and welding of metal parts; checks alignment of metal parts using spirit level and plumb-rule.

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Bricklayers and masons erect and repair structures of stone, brick and similar materials and cut, shape and polish granite, marble, slate and other stone for building, ornamental and other purposes.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings, photographs and specifications to determine job requirements; marks and cuts stone using hammers, mallet and hand or pneumatic chisels; spreads mortar on foundations and bricks, and places, levels and aligns bricks in mortar bed; uses hand and power tools to shape, trim, carve, cut letters in and polish stone; levels, aligns and embeds stone in mortar and faces brick, concrete or steel frame with stone to make and repair structures.

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Work Description

Job holders in this unit group cover roofs and exterior walls with felting, sheeting, slates, tiles and thatch to provide a waterproof surface.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

measures roof or exterior wall and calculates required amounts of underfelt, tiles, slates or thatching material; cuts wooden battens, felt and underfelt to required size; lays and secures underfelt and covers with hot bitumen or other adhesive compound; lays, aligns and secures successive overlapping layers of roofing material; seals edges of roof with mortar and ensures that joints are watertight.

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Work Description

Jobholders in this unit group assemble, install, maintain and repair plumbing fixtures, heating and ventilating systems and pipes and pipeline systems in commercial, residential and industrial premises and public buildings.

Qualification

There are no formal academic requirements although GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. NVQs/SVQs in Mechanical Engineering Services are available at Levels 2 and 3. Apprenticeships are available for plumbing and lead to an NVQ/SVQ at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine layout of system; measures and cuts required lengths of copper, lead, steel, iron, aluminium or plastic using hand or machine tools; installs fittings such as storage tanks, cookers, baths, toilets, taps and valves, refrigerators, boilers, radiators and fires; tests completed installation for leaks and makes any necessary adjustments; attaches fittings and joins piping by welding, soldering, cementing, fusing, screwing or other methods; repairs burst pipes and mechanical and combustion faults and replaces faulty taps, washers, valves, etc.

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Work Description

Carpenters and joiners construct, erect, install and repair wooden structures and fittings used in internal and external frameworks and cut, shape, fit and assemble wood to make templates, jigs, scale models and scenic equipment for theatres.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine job requirements; selects and measures appropriate wood and cuts, shapes and drills to specification using saws, planes, chisels and other power or hand tools; aligns and fixes prepared wood pieces by screwing, nailing, gluing and dowelling to form frames, shop fronts, counter units, decking, theatrical sets, furniture, small wooden craft, scale models and wooden templates; checks accuracy of work with square, rule and spirit level; maintains and repairs woodwork and fittings.

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Work Description

Job holders in this unit group install pre-glazed wooden, metal or PVC framework, and cut, fit and set glass in windows, doors, shop fronts, and other structural frames.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship in Glazing Installation or Installing Architectural Glazing Systems leading to an NVQ/SVQ at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings or specifications to determine job requirements; scores plain, coloured, safety and ornamental glass with hand cutter and breaks off glass by hand or with pliers; smoothes edges of glass and positions and secures in frame or grooved lead strips; applies mastic, putty or adhesive between glass and frame and trims off excess with knife; fixes mirror panels to interior and exterior walls and repairs and replaces broken glass.

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Work Description

Those working in construction and building trades n.e.c. undertake a variety of tasks in the construction, alteration, maintenance and repair of buildings, steeples, industrial chimneys and other tall structures, and of underwater structures not elsewhere classified in MINOR GROUP 531: Construction and Building Trades.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

selects, measures and cuts steel bars, rods and wire to required lengths, positions and fixes reinforcements into position and tensions as required using hydraulic jacks; lays bricks, tiles and building blocks to construct, repair and decorate buildings; pours and levels concrete, prepares surfaces for painting and plastering, and mixes and applies plaster and paint; installs plumbing fixtures, woodwork structures and fittings, and sets glass in frames; maintains and repairs steeples, industrial chimneys and other high structures, and installs and replaces lightning conductors; erects and repairs fencing; checks and puts on diving suit and equipment and descends underwater to carry out construction, maintenance and repair tasks on sites such as oil rigs, harbours, bridges etc.

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Work Description

Plasterers apply plaster and cement mixtures to walls and ceilings, fix fibrous sheets and cast and fix ornamental plasterwork to the interior or exterior of buildings.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

mixes, or directs the mixing of, plaster to desired consistency; applies and smoothes one or more coats of plaster and produces a finished surface, using hand tools or mechanical spray; pours liquid plaster into mould to cast ornamental plaster work; measures, cuts, installs and secures plaster board and/or ornamental plasterwork to walls and ceilings; covers and seals joints between boards and finishes surface; checks surface level using line, spirit level and straight edge.

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Work Description

Floorers and wall tilers lay composition mixtures (other than mastic asphalt) to form flooring, plan, fit and secure carpet, underlay and linoleum and cover and decorate walls and floors with terrazzo and granolithic mixtures, tiles and mosaic panels.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine job requirements; cleans floor surface, fixes wooden laying guides and mixes, pours and levels granite and terrazzo mixtures, bitumen, synthetic resin or other composition mixtures to form flooring; examines premises to plan suitable layout and cuts, lays and secures underlay, carpet and linoleum; finishes covering by rolling, smoothing, grouting or polishing; mixes cement screed or other adhesive, cuts and positions floor and wall tiles and checks alignment of tiling with spirit level.

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Work Description

Those working in this unit group apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other protective and decorative materials to interior and exterior walls and surfaces, paint designs on wood, glass, metal, plastics and other materials, and stain, wax and french polish wood surfaces by hand.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ in General Construction at Level 3.

Job Tasks

erects working platform or scaffolding up to five metres in height; prepares surfaces by cleaning, sanding and filling cracks and holes with appropriate filler; applies primer, undercoat and finishing coat(s) using brush, roller, or spray equipment; mixes adhesive or removes self-adhesive backing and positions covering material on wall, matching up patterns where appropriate and removing wrinkles and air bubbles by hand or brush; stains, waxes and french polishes wood surfaces by hand.

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Work Description

Construction and building trades supervisors oversee operations and directly supervise and coordinate the activities of workers in construction and building trades.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though GCSEs/S grades are advantageous. Entry is typically through an apprenticeship or traineeship approved by ConstructionSkills leading to an NVQ/SVQ at Level 3, in addition to significant relevant work experience.

Job Tasks

directly supervises and coordinates the activities of construction and building workers and/or subcontractors; establishes and monitors work schedules to meet productivity requirements; liaises with managers and contractors to resolve operational problems; determines or recommends staffing and other needs to meet productivity requirements; reports as required to managerial staff on work-related matters.

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Work Description

Job holders in this unit group erect and dismantle scaffolding and working platforms, set up lifting equipment and ships’ rigging, maintain and repair steeples, industrial chimneys and other tall structures and install, maintain and repair ropes, wires and cables.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements. Training is initially received on-the-job. Skilled workers must obtain Construction Skills recognised scaffolders record scheme cards through the completion of approved courses and further work experience. NVQs/SVQs in Scaffolding are available at Levels 2 and 3.

Job Tasks

examines drawings and specifications to determine job requirements; examines scaffold tubing and couplings for defects and selects, fits and bolts scaffold tubes until scaffolding reaches required height; lays and secures wooden planking to form working platforms and fixes guard rails, ladders, cradles and awnings as required; erects jib, derrick and similar hoisting equipment and installs ropes, pulleys and other lifting tackle; forms rope slings, ladders, netting and other rigging and measures, cuts and repairs wire or fibre rope.

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Work Description

Road construction operatives construct, repair and maintain roads and lay paving slabs and kerbstones to form pavements and street gutters.

Qualification

No academic qualifications are required. Training is typically provided on-the-job. All sites are required to have a ‘trained operative’ registered with the Street Workers Qualification Register. Trained operatives are required to attend accredited assessment centres. NVQs/SVQs in Highway Maintenance and Road Building are available at Levels 1 and 2.

Job Tasks

inspects road surfaces for hazards or signs of deterioration, clears mud, weeds and debris from road and spreads grit or salt as required; cuts away broken road surface with pick or pneumatic drill; heats bitumen in bucket, applies it to newly laid asphalt and beats or draws tamper head on asphalt to close joints; spreads bitumen, tar or asphalt and compacts surface using roller; spreads aggregate over road surfaces using shovel and lays markings on road surface; removes damaged paving slabs and kerb stones, lays bedding of sand, concrete or mortar on prepared foundation, lays new slabs or stones and fills joints with mortar.

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Work Description

Rail construction and maintenance operatives lay, re-lay, repair and examine railway track and maintain surrounding areas.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements. Off- and on-the-job training is provided. NVQs/SVQs in Rail Transport Engineering are available at Levels 2 and 3.

Job Tasks

patrols length of track and visually inspects rails, bolts, fishplates and chairs for distortion or fracture; checks tightness of bolts and wedges, replaces damaged rail chairs and repacks ballast under sleepers if necessary; lubricates points, examines fences, drains, culverts and embankments and carries out any necessary maintenance; spreads ballast and lays sleepers or metal plates at specified intervals; positions lengths of rail, sets of points and crossovers and secures rail with bolts, wooden wedges or clips; fastens together sections of rail by bolting fishplates to rails.

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Work Description

Workers in this unit group operate insulating equipment, fix plasterboard or dry linings to ceilings and walls, help construct, maintain, repair and demolish buildings and clean and resurface eroded stonework, lay, join and examine pipe sections for drainage, gas, water or similar piping systems and carry out a variety of other construction operative tasks not elsewhere classified in MINOR GROUP 814: Construction Operatives.

Qualification

There are no formal academic entry requirements. Training is typically provided on-the-job. NVQs/SVQs in General Construction Operations are available at Levels 1, 2 and 3.

Job Tasks

fills machine with insulating mixture, positions hose, drills access hole and fills cavities or coats surfaces to prevent loss or absorption of heat and provide fire protection; selects appropriate plasterboard or dry lining panels, cuts them to required size and fixes them to ceilings and walls; cuts, shapes and fits wood, lays bricks and tiles, cleans exterior surfaces of buildings and resurfaces eroded stone or brickwork, and performs other tasks in the construction, alteration, repair and demolition of buildings; selects appropriate asbestos, clay, concrete, plastic or metal pipe sections and lowers them into prepared trenches using hoisting equipment; joints pipe by sealing with rubber, cement, lead, etc., connects piping to manholes and attaches pipe junctions as required; tests joints with electronic test equipment or by filling piping with water, smoke or compressed air.

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