Ecologist

Ecology is a branch of science that looks at how animals, plants and humans interact with each other. Ecologists therefore play a key role in the construction of building developments. Before any works can start, Ecologists are on-site surveying all of the wildlife, plants, watercourses and the local environment to identify any potential negative impacts on the natural surroundings. Collected data is analysed and forms the basis of reports, with recommendations made in accordance with legislation and environmental standards. Ecologists split their time between surveys, office time and site visits to ensure works are being carried out. Analytical thinking, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to work well under your own initiative are some key skills highly valued in Ecologists. A love for wildlife and all things nature would be a great benefit too!

Geological Surveyor

A Geological Surveyor investigates and studies the rock composition beneath a prospective development site. This helps the housebuilder understand if the land they’re going to build homes on is solid, important stuff if you want homes that last. Techniques used include site surveys, analysing maps and plans, and the use of digital tools including AutoCAD and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to form three-dimensional maps of the subterranean landscape and geological makeup beneath the construction site. From a renewable energy point of view, geological surveys can help determine if a site is suitable to install Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs). GSHP’s use buried pipes sometimes over 100m deep to take warmth from below the Earth’s surface and use it to heat our homes and water. With the UK and Welsh Government targets to phase out the use of gas boilers in homes, technologies such as Ground Source Heat Pumps are sure to be in high demand. Many people work in geology, from the on-site surveyors and data analysts to those who get to work with very big drills. An interest in sciences, geography or rocks and fossils would be a wonderful place to start.

Sustainability Consultant

Environmental sustainability is the responsibility to conserve natural resources and protect global ecosystems to support health and wellbeing for all, now and in the future. A Sustainability Consultant works within the construction industry to ensure that sustainability is at the centre of the project, combining skills from business and environmental management. A Sustainability Consultant would look at all activities of a company to develop their business strategy including best practices for both now and the future. In home-building, this could be through helping reduce waste during construction to increase efficiency, maximising the use of renewable energy in the newly built homes, making recommendations on improving building fabric and insulation for a more comfortable and efficient home, or on preserving and maximising green space. Strong problem-solving, organisational and communication skills, as well as a strong interest in the wider scope of everything sustainability, would make you a great fit for this role.

Materials Scientist

Materials scientists study the chemical and structural properties of man-made and natural materials. Through this research, Materials Scientists seek to understand the properties and limitations of existing materials, devising ways to strengthen these or by combining and developing new materials. This could mean developing a new type of plaster that has noise cancelling properties, a new type of insulation to help keep homes extra cosy in the winter, or a photovoltaic material to capture energy from the sun as solar power to run homes and businesses. It could also mean understanding the forces that materials are able to withstand and working hard to make sure this meets the needs of the project. New materials technology has a big part to play in improving the environmental sustainability of homes. An inquisitive nature and a drive to research and discover with strong mathematical skills are essential qualities for this fascinating career.

For more information about construction careers, go to the Go Construct website, www.goconstruct.org