careernav.

Typical Career Progression 

From starting out as an apprentice within the building trade (carpentry), you then carry on with further studies to obtain your builders licence. Once qualified, many builders become self employed, running their own companies who then contract to building companies, developers or private clients.. There are many other career choices available to you on many different levels, all requiring relevant experience within the industry. You are able to become a building supervisor, construction manager or with further study, a building surveyor, or building estimator. 

Typical accountabilities and responsibilities 

There are several professional responsibilities that a building contractor must do for the construction and supervision of each job. A building contractor must be licensed to complete any work that requires building approval. Building contractors who employ subcontractors (for example plumbers, bricklayers or electricians) must ensure they are appropriately qualified and licensed for the job required. It is advisable that you have insurance cover that covers the client against any defective or incomplete work. 

Contracts must be drawn up and signed reflecting matters agreed between building contractor and client including details of start and completion dates, the address of where the work is to be carried out, the builder’s and client’s names, the builder’s licence details, payment arrangements any statutory warranties, and the total contract price. Plans and specifications of the project should be attached to the contract. 

All work is to be inspected from the initial excavations through each stage of the building work until completion. This is to be performed by a building certifier, who will then issue a Certificate of Completion once the work is completed, as well as applying for a Certificate of Occupancy, so the client is then able to move into their new home. 

Career Path Options 

There are many paths available to building contractors. You may choose to remain as a contractor working for yourself or for different building companies. In order to work a building contractor must be registered with the Building Practitioners Board and carry a licence. Practical experience must be gained in order for application of registration. Those with appropriate qualifications are able to become members of the Australian Institute of Building. 

For those who choose to continue their career you may choose to become a building supervisor/ construction manager, a sales representative of building products, or a building estimator to name a few.