PPR Sectors
Tweets from
@PPR_Online
PPR: Staffing solutions for construction projects
Industry experience & technical excellence
PPR are construction industry specialists. We connect Principle Contractors and Sub-contractors with qualified and skilled industry operatives. We work across the construction industry with a key focus on rail, airports, and mechanical & electrical engineering. We have supplied skilled staff for major infrastructure projects in London and the South East, and provide both clients and candidates with a comprehensive compliance and vetting process to ensure that we always deliver on quality.
If you’re looking for construction workers, civil engineers, or skilled driving and warehouse operatives, PPR can help. Alternatively, if you’re a construction worker or engineer looking for employment, we can connect you with the best companies and largest projects in the industry. We work across London and the South East, helping to increase employment throughout the region. From Essex to Kent and throughout Greater London, we have an extensive network of industry professionals. From our head offices near Uxbridge, West London, we provide a personalised service with a focus on customer care. Give us a call on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online to find out how we can help you today.
-
50
-
3000
-
5
Our Latest Vacancies
Construction
Professional
Industrial
Airport
Rail
Telecoms
Mechanical & Electrical
Our Core Values
At PPR, we are proud of the service we provide. We believe that by promoting excellence and upholding industry standards, we can help to create a better working environment and deliver better results. As such, our core values include: Integrity, Passion, Collaboration, Ambition, and Customer Focus.
-
Integrity
-
Passion
-
Collaboration
-
Ambition
-
Customer Focus
Work For Us
Working for PPR is an excellent way to progress your career. We offer both our clients and candidates temporary and fixed-term contract work, permanent positions, temporary to permanent placements, training opportunities, career advice, and a simple to use payroll facility. For employees working directly for PPR, you can expect: motivational incentives, career progression opportunities, a lively and positive working environment, a highly positive work place culture, and regular dress-down days. In 2018, we were included in the Recruiter Magazine ‘Fast 50’. This is a list of the fastest growing UK recruitment companies, across all disciplines, in the UK.
Industry Updates
-
4 elements you need on your CV when entering the engineering market
John Smith |
28-07-2021
A well written CV could be the difference between getting an interview and not being considered for the role. Engineering roles are traditionally very technical, require structure, and attention to detail so it is key that your CV reflects these skills. Your engineering CV should have a clear and concise structure that highlights your skills, experience, and education. Here are our top tips to help you write the perfect engineering CV to help you land that coveted job. Highlight your engineering education According to UCAS, the top five roles that Engineering graduates secure are in: Manufacturing Professional, scientific, and technical Construction Wholesale and retail trade IT So, if you’re looking to apply for a role in one of these sectors, or something similar, you know you’ll most likely need a degree. Most universities in the UK offer four-year undergraduate or integrated masters degrees (MEng) in engineering, which is a good indication as to the sort of qualification requirements needed when applying for a role in engineering. Only subjects and areas of interest should be highlighted on CVs. For example, Maintenance Engineers interested in automation engineering roles should highlight the systems they have experience in, such as Allen Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi etc. Engineering employers love professional development. Include all up-to-date courses, even if you are currently completing it such as Six Sigma and/or Lean manufacturing. This shows drive and ambition for the subject and will always be received well. Have some engineering work experience to talk about Real life industry experience is invaluable. Detail your work experience in a structured manner using bullet points. Each bullet point should be roughly two lines long with a concise description of the experience and why it’s relevant to the role you’re applying to. It’s about making yourself as applicable as possible. Talk about relevant interests and hobbies related to engineering What you do in your free time can tell recruiters a lot about your motivations, so don’t be afraid to include any clubs, groups or events that show how you’ve developed your skills and demonstrated a genuine interest in engineering. Relevant interests and hobbies will often include transferable skills which could make you a more desirable candidate. Relevant personal details and professional profile links As well as including your personal details like name, contact information, address, and date of birth, you should try to include a link to your LinkedIn profile and/or a link to an online portfolio, such as your own website. If you include a link to a portfolio, make sure it includes up-to-date examples of your work. This can act as an insightful extension of your CV. Find an engineering role with PPR Recruitment If you’d like to find out more about our current opportunities within engineering call PPR on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online. Related content: What are the 7 sectors of engineering? What is the difference between white and blue collar operatives? 7 transferrable skills that you can apply to the construction industry Promoting equality: women in the construction industry
Read more -
What type of jobs are in engineering?
John Smith |
28-07-2021
Those who dream of a job in engineering will most likely complete an engineering degree and/or masters before applying for a role in engineering. Many students will begin by studying engineering in a broad sense before selecting specialist areas to study in subsequent modules of their course. These specialist areas often help students decide what type of engineering job they want – but what type of jobs are actually in engineering? We’ve put together this guide to help you find out. The 7 engineering disciplines Broadly speaking there are seven engineering disciplines, also known as sectors. These sectors contain various sub-sectors that offer different career opportunities. The 7 main engineering sectors: Civil engineering Electrical engineering Mechanical engineering Structural engineering Modern technology Water systems and plumbing Energy production and supply Within each engineering discipline there are various job opportunities. In practice, some jobs will involve more than one of these disciplines, and some graduate schemes or apprenticeships may give you the chance to try out different options to see what suits you. Here are some of the main types of jobs in engineering: Research and development – carrying out original research into areas that haven’t been investigated before. Design engineering – working on an engineering project before construction/manufacturing begins, to make sure that there is a detailed, practical design to work from. Project engineering/construction management – managing engineering or construction projects to make sure that they are completed on time, on budget, to the clients’ requirements and in line with safety legislation. Process engineering – analysing manufacturing processes and finding ways to make them safer and more efficient. Different engineering industries Engineers can also work in different industries. Most industries need engineers from a range of different disciplines for the different knowledge and skills that they bring. To give a very simplified example, in aeronautical engineering different engineers might be responsible for the following areas: Mechanical engineers – aircraft Electrical engineers – operating board-computers, guidance systems, communication systems, and networks Civil engineers – runways, hangers, and landing/take-off pads Key engineering industries include: Aeronautical (flight) Aerospace (aircraft and spacecraft) Agricultural (finding practical ways to fix engineering problems for machinery used in servicing the land – not just farm land) Automotive (road vehicles) Built environment (buildings and infrastructure) Chemicals (manufacturing substances on a large scale) Defence (production of technology that is used to ensure national security) Electronics (design, develop and test components, devices, systems or equipment that use electricity as part of their source of power) Energy (involved in energy production, as well as working on gas and oil extraction) Fast-moving consumer goods (manufacturing items such as snack foods and cleaning products) Marine (ships) Materials and metals (developing new materials or improving existing ones) Pharmaceuticals (pharmaceutical manufacturing) Rail (specialise in the design, construction, and operation of all types of railway systems) Telecoms (install, test and repair communications systems including mobile networks and fibre optics) Utilities (covering water, sewerage, energy, and telecoms) As well as all of these engineering sub-sectors listed above, there are many, many more. Engineering affects everything we do, from using phones to travelling and wearing clothes. That’s why there are so many types of engineering that fall within the 7 main disciplines. What are the average salaries for different engineering jobs? If you’re serious about a career in engineering, one big question you’re likely to have is “How much could I earn?” We’ve broken down the UK salary averages for the different engineering sectors to help give you a rough idea: Civil engineer - £24,000 – £80,000+ a year (UK average) Electrical engineer - £20,000 – £60,000+ a year (UK average) Mechanical engineer - £22,000 – £55,000+ a year (UK average) Structural engineer - £22,000 - £70,000+ a year (UK average) Modern technology engineer - £28,000 - £61,000+ a year (UK average) Water systems and plumbing engineer - £26,000 - £50,000+ a year (UK average) Energy engineer - £20,000 - £60,000+ a year (UK average) Discover a career in engineering with PPR As you can see, engineering is a broad and diverse area. It is also an excellent choice in terms of career prospects and salary expectations. If you’d like to find out more about our current opportunities within engineering call PPR on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online. Related content: Top CV tips for 2021 7 transferrable skills that you can apply to the construction industry Promoting equality: women in the construction industry
Read more -
How to make sure you are compliant with new regulations as an HGV driver
John Smith |
09-07-2021
According to the Road Haulage Association (RHA), there is currently a shortage of around 100,000 HGV drivers in the UK. Several factors have contributed to this huge shortage including the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic and the changes to working regulations for EU nationals post-Brexit. Last year, it is estimated that 30,000 HGV tests in the UK were cancelled due to the pandemic. Nationwide HGV employment drive The shortage of HGV drivers in the UK is beginning to have a serious impact on goods transportation both domestically and internationally. Some supermarkets have already suggested that shelves will become less well-stocked if the problems continue. Emergency talks are currently underway between government officials, retailers, wholesalers, and logistics groups to find an appropriate solution. The UK government is currently considering a massive employment drive to encourage people to train as HGV drivers. With so many vacancies across the logistics sector, now is the perfect time to consider retraining and following a career in transport. Relaxing of HGV drivers’ hours As a temporary solution to the shortage, Secretary for Transport Grant Shapps announced a temporary extension to HGV drivers’ hours. Under current legislation, an HGV driver in the UK or EU must adhere to the following regulations: No more than 9 driving hours per day (extended to 10 hours twice a week) No more than 56 working hours per week No more than 90 working hours in 2 consecutive weeks All driving hours must also be accurately recorded using a tachograph. Under the temporarily relaxed laws the following changes will come into use: No more than 10 driving hours per day (extended to 11 hours twice a week) This extension of HGV working hours is planned to start on the 12th July and continue until 11.59pm on the 8th August 2021. Any companies taking advantage of these extended hours must notify the Department of Transport before the period begins and again after the finish date. Important information for HGV drivers concerning breaks and rest A career as an HGV driver is challenging and rewarding. It can be well paid with many opportunities to travel both within the UK and further afield. Safety is at the heart of all HGV legislation. When in charge of a large vehicle on a public road you are responsible for the safety of yourself, your cargo, and all other road users. To ensure that HGV drivers work as safely as possible, there are tight restrictions concerning breaks and rest during a working day. As an HGV driver in the UK and EU you must adhere to the following regulations: You must take at least 11 hours rest every day (this can be reduced to 9 hours rest on 3 occasions between any fortnightly rest periods). You must take an unbroken rest period of 45 hours every week (this can be reduced to 24 hours every other week). After every 4 hours 30 minutes of driving, you must take a break or breaks totaling at least 45 minutes. You must take your weekly rest period after 6 consecutive 24-hour periods of working starting from the end of the previous rest period. These regulations are for HGV drivers working across the UK and EU. For detailed information regarding UK only HGV regulations visit https://www.gov.uk/drivers-hours/gb-domestic-rules. At PPR, we have worked extensively in the transportation sector. If you’d like to find out more about our current vacancies and the industries where we specialise, get in touch today. Have a browse of our website for further information then give us a call on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online.
Read more -
The 8 main steps to becoming a qualified commercial driver in the UK
Mary Williams |
29-06-2021
Commercial vehicles are designed for transporting goods or paying passengers. This includes lorries and other heavy goods vehicles, buses and large vans. If you’re interested in becoming a commercial driver, there are various steps you need to take first. We’ve outlined the 8 main steps below to get you on your way to becoming a qualified commercial driver in the UK. Step 1 - work out which commercial driving licence you want There are various types of commercial driving licence in the UK: Class 1, Class 2, D1 and D amongst others. There are also different requirements to meet and tests to undergo to acquire one of these specific licences. Therefore, knowing what type of commercial driving licence is essential for determining your next steps. Step 2 – have/acquire a full UK car driving licence The first step in acquiring a commercial driving licence is to apply for provisional entitlement to the driving category. This is known as ‘staging’. However, before you can do that, you must first have a valid UK car driving licence. If you do not currently have a car driving licence, you can find all the information you need on the government’s website. Step 3 – apply for provisional entitlement With a car driving licence, you can apply for a provisional licence to the following higher driving categories: Category BE – for driving vehicles up to 3,500kg with a trailer G – road roller licence H – Tracked vehicles C1 – for driving vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg (with a trailer up to 750kg) C – for driving vehicles over 3,500kg (with a trailer up to 750kg) D1 – for driving minibuses and other vehicles with no more than 16 passengers and up to 8m long (with a trailer up to 750kg) D – for driving buses with more than 8 passengers (with a trailer up to 750kg) It’s also important to bear in mind that you may need to apply for provisional entitlement again if you’d like to become a higher qualified commercial driver in the UK. For example, for a C+E (Class 1) driving licence, you will already need a category C (Class 2) driving licence. Step 4 – the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test Part 1: theory After applying for a provisional lorry or bus licence, depending on which type of commercial vehicle you wish to drive, you will need to pass the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test. The first part of the Driver CPC is a theory test, which you can book as soon as you’ve got your provisional licence. The theory test is broken up into 2 parts: Multiple choice questions Hazard perception test As you would have done when doing your car driving test, we recommend preparing properly. There are plenty of learning tools available that cover the contents of the test and allow you to do practice questions. Step 5 – Driver CPC Part 2: case studies You can also book the case studies part of the Driver CPC as soon as you’ve acquired your provisional lorry or bus licence. This test is also carried out on a computer and it is comprised of seven case studies, with six to eight questions for each case study. The case studies are based on scenarios that you are likely to encounter in your everyday working and life and it takes about 1 and 30 minutes to complete all 8 of them. Step 6 – Driver CPC Part 3: driving ability The driving ability part of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence test can only be booked once you’ve passed the theory test (part 1). This test lasts for about 1 hour and 30 minutes and it includes vehicle safety questions, practical road driving and off-road exercises. There are various training providers available where you can train to drive a lorry or bus in preparation for this test. Step 7 – Driver CPC Part 4: practical demonstration The final part of the Driver CPC is a practical demonstration test. In order to book it, you will need to have passed the case studies test (part 2). This test is made up of 5 topics from the Driver CPC syllabus and covers your ability to load your vehicle following safety rules, keeping it secure and stopping the trafficking of illegal immigrants, and others. Step 8 - After you’re a qualified commercial driver in the UK After doing the full Driver CPC, you will be sent a Driver CPC card, which you must carry with you when professionally driving coaches, lorries or buses. You will also need to undergo 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to stay qualified. However, if you would like to drive artic lorries commercially, you will need to a book C+E driving test, which you can only do after passing the Driver CPC and qualifying as a Class 2 (category C) driver. If you’re a qualified commercial driver or you’re on your way to qualifying and are looking for vacancies once you finish, head on over to our website and check out our current driving vacancies. PPR Recruitment is a leading technical recruitment business providing contract and permanent staffing solutions. To find out more about working in one of the industries we support, give us a call on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online. Related to this post: Is HGV driving a good job in 2020? Top 5 tips for new HGV drivers
Read more -
Can I go straight to Class 1 HGV?
Mary Williams |
23-06-2021
After qualifying as a Class 2 HGV driver, you can go straight in to becoming a Class 1 HGV driver by taking the Category E practical test. However, there are several steps you must take before becoming a Class 2 driver: Obtain a car driving licence. Apply for a provisional lorry licence. Pass the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test. This is broken into four parts and includes a theory and practical driving test. Only after completing these steps can you take the Category E practical test and become a Class 1 HGV driver. HGV drivers are highly coveted, with recent studies suggesting the UK currently has a deficit of 50,000 HGV drivers. So, for anyone interested in becoming a Class 1 HGV driver, we’ve looked at several FAQs related to a Class 1 licence. What is a Class 1 driver? A class 1 HGV licence, also known as a category C + E license, allows you to drive vehicles that are 7 and half tonnes and above and have a trailer that detaches. These vehicles are typically very large and used for long haul routes. What is the difference between a Class 1 and Class 2 driver? Class 1 drivers can drive a category C+E vehicle, which is basically articulated lorries. However, Class 2 drivers can drive a Category C vehicle, which are rigid body vehicles. These include fire engines and refuse collection vehicles. Generally, Class 1 drivers are paid a higher wage and do long-haul driving, whilst Class 2 drivers usually work around towns and cities. How old do you have to be for HGV Class 1? Provided you have a CPC qualification, you can drive Class C + E vehicles if you are aged between 18-20. Otherwise, 21 is the minimum age. How do I get my HGV licence for free? There are government grants available to those looking to start a career in HGV driving. Some companies will pay for your training whilst those who are unemployed can get funding through the job centre. How do I get my first HGV job? You’re in the right place if you wish to find your first HGV job. Head on over to our website to read about our current HGV driver vacancies and apply for any that are suitable for you. PPR Recruitment is a leading technical recruitment business providing contract and permanent staffing solutions. To find out more about working in one of the industries we support, give us a call on 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online. Related to this post: Is HGV driving a good job in 2020? Top 5 tips for new HGV drivers
Read more -
What qualifications do you need to be a tradesman?
Mary Williams |
26-05-2021
Specialising in a particular trade, tradespeople are typically skilled workers who've worked their way up through 'on-the-job training' schemes such as apprenticeships, as well as specific vocational college courses. Some trades don't have any formal entry requirements, whereas others offer a clear route to becoming a qualified tradesperson. Become a qualified tradesperson takes time and there are no shortcuts, so it's also important to be wary of any 'fast track' or 'independent course providers' - if it seems too good to be true it generally is! How do I become a tradesman? In the UK, to get intermediate or advanced qualifications in a specific trade, you will need at least 5 GCSE's ranging from A* to D. So, if want to get into a particular trade, we’ve looked at some of the most popular ones and the qualifications needed to get into that specific line of work. What qualifications do I need to become a builder? Builders often begin their careers in entry-level roles or as an apprentice, where no qualifications are needed. That said, employers will look for a good general standard of education, e.g. GCSEs (A-C) in maths and English, as well as any previous experience in the construction industry. Almost every building site requires CSCS Card Certification (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme), to ensure high standards of safety and compliance on-site at all times. Other common qualifications and certificates in the construction industry include: Asbestos Awareness CPCS card (plant operation) SSSTS Certification (site supervision) SMSTS Certification (site management) First Aid at Work (site management) What qualifications do I need to become a plumber? Plumbing apprenticeships take up to 4 years to complete. Those that don't have enough work experience for an apprenticeship often take the traineeship route (work placement) to develop the relevant skills required. The minimum qualification to become a plumber is the City & Guilds 6035 Level 2 Diploma in Domestic Plumbing. Other qualifications include: Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating T level for Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technicians Gas Safe registration Asbestos Awareness What qualifications do I need to become an electrician? Most electricians get into this career through an apprenticeship scheme, usually taking 2 to 4 years to become fully qualified. You will need: Industry recognised level 3 qualification e.g Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical Services Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations if part of an apprenticeship Asbestos Awareness What qualifications do I need to become a roofer? Often considered one of the most physically demanding trades, roofer apprenticeships can take up to 2 years to complete. To become a roofer, you’ll need: Level 2 Diploma in Roofing Occupations Level 2 Diploma in Roof Slating and Tiling T level for Roofers Asbestos Awareness What qualifications do I need to become a plasterer? Another trade that's often accessed through apprenticeships or college courses, you can also get into plastering through onsite experience as an assistant plasterer. Advanced apprenticeships in plastering can take up to 3 years to complete, involving a mixture of onsite training and classroom-based learning. Other qualifications to consider include: Level 1 Award in Construction Skills – Plastering Level 2 Diploma in Plastering Asbestos Awareness What qualifications do I need to become a carpenter? One of the oldest trades around, carpentry apprenticeships can take up to 3 years to complete. To become a carpenter, you’ll need: Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery T level for Carpentry and Joinery What qualifications do I need to become a painter and decorator? Painter and decorators don't need to be qualified but making a living with no experience will be difficult. Initial work experience can be gained as a painter and decorator's labourer. As well as apprenticeships, painting and decorating qualifications to look out for include: Level 1 Award/Certificate in Basic Construction Skills (Painting and Decorating) Level 1 Certificate in Construction Crafts - Painting and Decorating Level 1/2/3 Diploma in Painting and Decorating Asbestos Awareness What qualifications do I need to become a landscape gardener? There are no formal requirements to become a landscaper, but most employers will expect a decent level of horticulture knowledge and experience. The following qualifications will provide you with the relevant skills needed to become a successful landscape gardener: Level 1 Diploma in Skills for Working in Horticulture Industries Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture What qualifications do I need to become a double glazing installer? Those that have GCSEs in maths and English and/or previous experience of carpentry and joinery can often apply directly, starting as a fitter's 'mate' (assistant) and working their way up. Helpful qualifications to have include: Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills Level 1 Award in Carpentry and Joinery T level for Fenestration Installers Asbestos Awareness Tradespeople wanted - find more work with PPR Recruitment The construction division of PPR provides an extensive range of industry professionals for a variety of projects. We source and place qualified tradespeople, skilled operatives, and more general workers to various UK construction projects. If you're looking for tradesman vacancies, contact PPR today to find out more about our current career opportunities. Call 01895 80 81 88 or contact us online for more information or specialist advice and support.
Read more
