The construction industry is a key contributor to any country’s economic growth and development. According to Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the total construction demand in Singapore is projected to be approximately between S$27 and S$32 billion.
If you’re looking for a career that’s stable and rewarding, then the construction industry might just be the ticket. Whether you’re a project manager, or a surveyor, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. And with upcoming projects like Tengah, there’s no shortage of exciting work on the horizon.
So, if you’ve got the skills and the drive, why not build your career in the construction industry? In this article, we provide an overview of the roles you can consider in the construction industry and how you can gain the skills and experience required to start your career here.
Roles within the construction industry to consider
1. Project Manager
Project managers are responsible for overseeing the entire construction project, from planning and design to construction and completion. They are responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
It requires managing multiple stakeholders and teams to integrate overall project plans, and assessing project plans for execution, risk management, safety management, and quality assurance and control to ensure effective project management. In addition to identifying project requirements based on size, scope, and timeline, project managers support the preparation of contractual and tender documents for approvals and submissions. In order to do this, it is important that they have an in-depth understanding of regulatory and legislative requirements.
The individual in this role must be resourceful and proactive, be able to pay attention to detail and work under pressure while managing multiple projects simultaneously. Additionally, they should have good communication and interpersonal skills, and have the capability to organise and manage time to ensure the successful implementation of projects.
Project management is a highly rewarding career path in the construction industry, with opportunities for growth and advancement.
2. Building Information Modeling Manager
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital technology used in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry for creating and managing building information during the entire project lifecycle. BIM managers are responsible for overseeing the implementation and management of BIM technology on construction projects. They work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that BIM technology is used effectively throughout the project lifecycle.
BIM managers develop BIM execution plans, establish BIM standards, and oversee the creation and management of BIM models. A career in BIM management requires a strong understanding of BIM technology and its application in the construction industry, as well as excellent communication and leadership skills.
3. Surveyor
A surveyor is responsible for various tasks that depend on their specialisation. For instance, a quantity surveyor/contracts manager/cost manager is responsible for managing a project’s cost and contract administration. They take measurements and draft tender documentation and prepare for the tender process. They analyse the tender returns, prepare cost estimates based on technical specifications, and create cost details for further analysis.
This requires knowledge of the industry, construction materials, procurement methods, and regulations. They ensure the complete cost management of a project, including preparing claims and final account settlements. A surveyor in this role must be detail-oriented and meticulous, with strong numeracy, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Surveying is an essential part of the construction industry, and it offers numerous opportunities for growth and advancement.
4. Facilities Manager
Facilities managers are responsible for the management and maintenance of buildings and facilities, ensuring that they are safe, functional, and meet the needs of their occupants. They oversee a wide range of tasks, from assessing the performance of third-party service deliverers, to implementing sustainability guidelines according to the organisation’s green building strategies.
Facilities managers are also responsible for ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and ensuring that buildings and facilities are accessible to all. They work closely with building owners, tenants, and employees to understand their needs and address any issues that arise. A career in facilities management requires strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and a broad understanding of technical knowledge in building systems and maintenance.
Upcoming Public Sector Construction Projects in Singapore
Singapore is a hub for construction and infrastructure development, with several upcoming projects in the pipeline. BCA reports that of the total construction demand, 60% is generated by the public sector and is valued at S$16 to S$19 billion. These projects range from public housing projects to transportation developments. For example, the construction of Changi Airport Terminal 5 will be built to handle up to 50 million passengers annually.
Tengah – another major upcoming development in Singapore, and its first HDB town that will incorporate smart technologies to become the first ‘Forest Town’ in the country. The project involves the development of a new residential town that will be built around a central park and will feature a range of eco-friendly initiatives, such as green roofs and rain gardens. It is expected to provide homes for approximately 42,000 households, generating many construction jobs to facilitate its building.
Besides the construction of buildings, project managers and quantity surveyors are also in demand in Singapore’s land transport industry with the expansion of its railway networks and the addition of new train lines, such as the Cross Island Line and the Jurong Region Line. Individuals with the right credentials can look forward to a diverse range of job opportunities.
Explore PSB Academy’s Construction Management Course
PSB Academy offers two new bachelor’s degree courses in partnership with Coventry University: Bachelor of Science with Honours in Construction Management and the Bachelor of Science with Honours in Quantity Surveying and Commerical Management.
Our 16 – 24-month construction management degrees will equip students with a well-rounded understanding of the essential topics in resource management, economics, design, and production processes, which are fundamental for professionals in all construction fields. Designed to provide students with a solid foundation, the course covers a range of other critical subjects such as construction technology, building science and structures, engineering surveying and construction processes, contractual procedures, and construction finance. The construction management degree courses also include a sustainability module as part of our effort to actively integrate sustainability in STEM education, in alignment with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030. By doing so, we hope to equip our students with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead the charge in creating a more sustainable and innovative construction industry, better suited for the future.
Additionally, the programme offers practical training in technological application, with a focus on BIM (Building Information Modelling) using the Autodesk suite. You will gain hands-on experience in using this technology to create and manage digital models of buildings, which can be used throughout the entire construction process.
Moreover, you will have opportunities for practical industry immersion, including site visits, field trips, and live assessment activities. These experiences will provide you with relevant industry insights and help you to develop practical skills that are in demand in the construction industry.
The structure of the course and practical training have been created to provide a combination of technical skills and knowledge of digital technology, which will equip you to work in the growing construction sector and prepare you for future developments in this rapidly evolving industry.
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