Not worked in Building Materials?
We want you too!
Building Materials employers are looking for talented people from all walks of life with different and valuable experience and skills.
We’re a vast and varied sector employing over 200,000 people and looking to increase the diversity of our talent pool.
So if you’re looking for a role that can take many paths – explore a role that could be the perfect fit for you.
See how we are making a material difference and shaping the future.
Take a look at
some typical job roles in the sector
Transferable skills
What we’re looking for
Building Materials employers often look for a range of transferable skills from candidates coming from other sectors that can contribute effectively to the diversity, growth and development of their businesses. Here are some key transferable skills that are highly valued by employers in the sector:
Customer service skills
Providing excellent customer service is essential for dealing with the many types of customers in the sector. Candidates who possess strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a customer-centric approach can enhance client satisfaction and foster long-term partnerships.
Communication skills
Effective communication is essential in the Building Materials industry, whether it’s liaising with clients, suppliers, or team members. Individuals with strong communication skills can convey information clearly, negotiate effectively, and build relationships that are crucial in this sector.
Teamwork and collaboration
Collaboration is vital in the Building Materials sector, where projects often involve interdisciplinary teams working together towards a common goal. Candidates who are adept at working collaboratively, sharing knowledge, and supporting team members can contribute to a positive and productive work environment.
Problem-solving skills
The ability to analyse complex situations, identify issues, and propose practical solutions is highly valued in the Building Materials sector. Employers seek candidates who can think critically, troubleshoot effectively, and make informed decisions to overcome challenges that may arise during construction projects.
Project management skills
Proficiency in project management is key for overseeing a wide variety of projects efficiently and ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. Candidates with experience in organising tasks, managing resources, and coordinating stakeholders can make valuable contributions to Building Materials companies.
Technical aptitude
While technical knowledge specific to the building materials sector is important, candidates from other sectors can bring transferable technical skills, such as proficiency in using software applications, understanding technical specifications, or operating machinery, which can be adapted to the industry.
Health and safety awareness
Prior experience in sectors with stringent health and safety regulations can be beneficial in this sector, where maintaining a safe work environment is paramount. Candidates with a strong understanding of health and safety protocols and a commitment to promoting workplace safety are highly valued by employers.
Adaptability and flexibility
Given the dynamic nature of the Building Materials industry, employers seek candidates who are adaptable to changing circumstances, flexible in their approach, and able to quickly pivot to meet evolving project requirements or market demands.
Training and apprenticeships
Helping you make the leap
Apprenticeships offer a chance to transition into a career in Building Materials by acquiring new skills and knowledge through hands-on training and mentorship with professionals in the industry.
Take a look at some the people in Building Materials who have benefited from an apprenticeship with their employer and through our main apprenticeship provider LEAP.
Many employers in the sector are committed to offering apprenticeships; individuals can contact an apprenticeship provider that is recognised by the Builders Merchants Federation.
If you’re working in these sectors
We need you!
Many sectors offer transferable skills that can be valuable for individuals seeking to work in Building Materials businesses.
By leveraging transferable skills gained from these sectors, individuals can effectively transition into roles within Building Materials businesses and contribute to the sector’s growth and innovation.
Here are just a few, but not all, of the skills we are looking for:
Construction industry
- Project Management: Construction professionals often have experience overseeing projects, managing resources, and ensuring work is completed according to specifications and timelines.
- Knowledge of Building Standards and Regulations: Understanding construction codes and regulations is crucial in the Building Materials sector to ensure compliance and quality standards.
- Experience with Building Materials and Equipment: Construction professionals are familiar with different types of building materials, tools, and equipment used in construction projects.
Manufacturing industry
- Process Improvement Skills: Professionals in manufacturing sectors often have expertise in optimising processes, enhancing efficiency, and reducing waste, which can be valuable in building materials production.
- Quality Control and Assurance: Experience in maintaining quality standards, conducting inspections, and ensuring product integrity is essential in the manufacturing of building materials.
Engineering sector
- Design and Technical Skills: Engineers bring technical expertise in areas such as structural design, material properties, and systems integration, which are essential for developing innovative building materials and solutions.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Engineers are adept at analysing complex problems, identifying solutions, and implementing technical innovations, skills that are highly valuable in the Building Materials industry.
Sales and marketing field
- Customer Relationship Management: Professionals in sales and marketing have experience in building and maintaining client relationships, understanding customer needs, and promoting products effectively.
- Market Research and Analysis: Skills in researching market trends, analysing competition, and identifying growth opportunities can be beneficial for marketing building materials effectively.
Supply chain and logistics sector
- Supply Chain Management: Professionals in supply chain and logistics are skilled in managing inventory, optimising supply chains, and ensuring timely delivery of materials, skills that are critical in the Building Materials industry.
- Supplier Management: Experience in sourcing materials, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships can be advantageous for Building Materials businesses to ensure a reliable supply chain.
Environmental and sustainability fields
- Knowledge of Sustainable Building Practices: Professionals in environmental and sustainability sectors often have expertise in green building practices, energy efficiency, and sustainable materials, which are increasingly important in the Building Materials sector.
Ways to get into Building Materials
Whatever your age, stage or ambition
From apprenticeships to degrees and employment – there are many ways to enter Building Materials, including:
Apprenticeships
College
Employment
University
Graduate Schemes
Here’s what you need to know to build your career here…
Explore what a career pathway could look like in
The Building Materials industry
Take a look at what your career pathway could look like within the Building Materials industry. This is not a full representation of the many career pathways we have to offer, in fact some follow more of a squiggly line!
Career pathways
In branch roles
Career pathways
Head office & support functions
