The UK construction industry faces a critical crossroads. With a projected shortage of around 250,000 skilled workers by 2028 and ambitious national targets for housing and infrastructure, the demand for qualified talent has never been more intense.

Behind every successful construction project are people with specific skills that bring buildings from blueprint to reality. But which skills truly make candidates stand out in today’s market?

We’ve identified the five skills that consistently top recruitment lists. Whether you’re looking to enter the industry or advance your construction career, understanding what employers are looking for can make a real difference to your job search and how you present yourself.

Skilled Trades & Technical Expertise

Despite the rush toward digitalisation, the foundation of construction remains skilled tradespeople. Employers are always actively seeking qualified bricklayers, carpenters, joiners, plumbers, electricians, and heavy machine operators.

If you’re looking to develop these skills, consider:

  • Pursuing NVQ qualifications in your chosen trade
  • Completing a City & Guilds certification program
  • Seeking an apprenticeship for hands-on training
  • Obtaining relevant cards like CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

Apprenticeship programs offer a great solution to any skills gaps you may have, helping you learn and improve while you work.

Digital & Technological Skills

Construction is no longer just about bricks and mortar. Digital adoption is transforming how we plan, build, and maintain. Building Information Modeling (BIM), artificial intelligence, drone technology, and prefabrication are revolutionising traditional construction processes.

The UK Government’s 2011 Construction Strategy requires all centrally procured public sector projects to adopt collaborative 3D BIM by April 2016. This makes these skills in high demand:

  • BIM coordination and management
  • Experience with software like Autodesk Revit and Navisworks
  • Drone operation for surveys and site monitoring
  • Digital project management platforms

For job seekers, gaining certification in these areas can set you apart from competitors. It also futureproofs you against an evolving industry.

Green & Sustainable Construction

With the UK committed to net-zero carbon targets, sustainable construction skills are now essential rather than optional.

Areas of demand include:

  • Knowledge of renewable energy system installation (solar PV, heat pumps)
  • Energy-efficient retrofitting of existing buildings
  • Knowledge of sustainable building materials
  • Whole-life carbon assessment
  • Understanding of building performance standards

Training programs are expanding to meet this demand, with courses available in passive house design, heat pump installation, and low-carbon retrofitting. Many construction firms are already prioritising sustainability skills in their hiring.

Two workers in safety gear walking beside a large outdoor solar panel installation on a sunny day.

Health & Safety Compliance

Safety remains paramount in construction. Beyond being a legal requirement, strong safety practices protect you and make you a valuable employee.

Key health and safety skills valued by employers include:

  • CITB Site Safety Plus certificates
  • CSCS card qualifications
  • Ability to conduct thorough risk assessments
  • Knowledge of CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations

Project Management & Soft Skills

Technical skills may get you through the door, but soft skills are equally important. Particularly valued soft skills include:

  • Clear communication across diverse teams
  • Adaptability to changing project conditions
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Leadership and team coordination
  • Resilience and time management

These skills become especially important as workers progress into supervisory and management roles.

Group of construction professionals reviewing blueprints on-site in front of a scaffolded building under construction, with a crane in the background.

Developing Your Construction Career

Skill Area Why It Matters Key Qualifications
Skilled Trades 225,000-worker shortage by 2028 NVQ, City & Guilds, CSCS
Digital & Tech Transforming traditional processes BIM, Revit, drone operation
Sustainability Net-zero targets driving demand Heat pump installation, passive house
Health & Safety Legal requirement and safeguards yourself CITB cards, risk assessment
Soft Skills Valued equally to technical skills Leadership, communication, adaptability

 

Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance in construction, focusing on these five skill areas will make you more employable. The best approach often combines formal qualifications with practical experience and soft skills.

At PPR, we specialise in connecting construction employers with skilled candidates across these key areas. If you’re looking to find your next role in the construction sector, get in touch with us at 01895 808188 or upload your CV on our website.

TLDR: The most in-demand construction skills are traditional trades, digital technology, sustainability, health and safety, and soft skills.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which construction skills command the highest salaries currently?

Specialised technical roles that combine traditional skills with newer technologies typically command premium salaries.

How can PPR help me find the right construction job?

PPR specialises in matching construction professionals with suitable opportunities across the UK. We take time to understand your specific skills, experience level, and career goals before connecting you with relevant positions.

Are there government initiatives to help develop construction skills?

Yes, several government programs support construction skills development. The Construction Skills Fund, T-Levels in construction, expanded apprenticeship programs, and various regional initiatives provide funding and training opportunities. The CITB also offers grants and support for training in priority skill areas.

 

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