Green careers are changing the construction career path

 One area that is particularly crying out for a boost is sustainability.

Green Careers Week, running from 4 to 9 November 2024, will showcase the evolving, often under-recognised roles that make up the sustainable construction sector.  

In construction, green jobs are roles that contribute to creating environmentally sustainable buildings and infrastructure.

As retrofit projects, sustainable building practices, and low-carbon energy solutions become more prevalent across the UK, the pathways for new and existing construction workers are transforming.

 The Green Careers Hub recently said: “Lots of people move into sustainability roles at different stages in their career, often completely switching sectors. The advice we often hear from professionals is to follow your passion.”

This comes as no surprise given that 70% of construction projects now incorporate sustainability targets, according to the Sustainable Futures Report from NBS.

As the industry shifts, there is an increased requirement and opportunity for people to move into roles that help assess the performance of a building from the design stages to the final performance reviews.

These roles can include implementing energy-saving systems, reducing waste, assessing thermal performance, sustainable architecture, or ensuring airtightness in buildings to prevent energy loss – but the possibilities are endless. 

Many green career options aren’t widely known by the general public, but this must change if the UK is set to meet its retrofit and net-zero targets and help bridge the skills gap in the wider construction industry.

Sustainable roles provide existing construction workers with the opportunity to upskill and find a competitive niche.

For example, an EPC assessor might build on their role by specialising in thermal performance measurement, or an architect might apply their expertise toward sustainable design and low-carbon material selection.

Transitioning into a green career doesn’t require starting from scratch, just the willingness and passion to learn additional skills that complement their existing expertise.

The next generation of construction professionals can leverage their natural strengths – whether in mathematics, physics, people skills, or hands-on work – to guide them towards roles that align with their interests in sustainable practices.

There is a broad range of entry pathways to suit all requirements and preferences, from apprenticeships and technical courses to university degrees focused on sustainable building practices.

Industry schemes, such as the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), can provide grants and funding for accessing courses and apprenticeships in sustainable practices.

Fundamentally, our industry needs to undergo a green career transformation. These roles not only provide us with an opportunity to contribute to environmental targets but also improve building quality.

As demand for sustainable practices grows, careers in areas like thermal performance, low-carbon heating installation, and airtightness testing will be critical in creating a resilient and sustainable built environment.

Learn more about Green Careers Week: greencareersweek.com/