11 Aug 2022 | 3 mins

Hard work definitely pays off in construction, whether you’re getting your hands dirty or working behind a desk. To help you discover which trade suits you best, here is what you need to know first:

What does blue and white-collar mean?

Blue-collar work is site-based and best suited to people who love to get their hands dirty and body moving. These guys often have a trade qualification under their belt. White-collar workers, on the other hand, are generally office-based and have completed a diploma or university degree. Despite their differences, both blue and white-collar professions have a massive impact in the world of construction.

The type of work

There are two different areas you could work within in the construction industry: general or civil construction. General construction work deals with structures like houses, apartment blocks and even skyscrapers, whereas civil construction refers to infrastructure projects, like railways, water managment facilities and tunnels. One rule of thumb to use is that if the project builds upwards, it's most likely to be general construction, and if it builds 'out', it's usually civil construction.

Electrician

Better known as sparkies, electricians shine a light in construction projects, literally. They install and maintain lighting, wiring and power equipment. Problem-solving is a red-hot skill to have and sparkies use it every day!

Plumber

Plumbers install and maintain drainage systems, pipes, fittings and fixtures in all types of buildings. You will definitely be the favourite in the extended family whenever there’s a problem!

Tiler

From a design perspective, tilers do some awesome things. From laying tiles to applying adhesive and using grout - there’s a bit more of an artform behind tiling. Whether it’s in a renovation or a new build, quality tiling is an awesome skill to have.

Architect

Architects are professionally trained in the art and science of building design. While people might think it’s all about how the building looks, it’s all about the structure. To make concepts and ideas come to life is incredible, so if you have a creative eye, architecture might be the way to go.

Carpenters

A trade as old as time, carpenters do everything from installing timber fixtures and fittings to erecting building frames.

Site Supervisor

Site supervisors oversee the health and safety of construction sites, order building supplies and liaise with customers directly. While they may not be on the tools anymore, they are the glue that holds everything together and ensure work is getting done.

Painter

Painters know their way around tools, varnishes and what looks best aesthetically. They have a creative eye and probably own a few pairs of stained jeans in their wardrobe.

Bricklayer

Using bricks, concrete blocks or stone, bricklayers create the foundation for walls, fireplaces and arches. They’re the definition of hardworking and if one thing’s for sure – they’ll never need a gym membership!

To find out more about the career you could build in construction, suss out Construction Skills Queensland for more info!