The Highest Paying Construction Jobs

The Australian construction industry continues its upward trajectory with the government forecasting an almost 6% growth across the sector, or close to another 70,000 jobs by the end of 2026. This is great news if you’re looking for a new construction role.

But what’s even better news is the fact you’ll earn a higher weekly wage than the average Aussie worker ($1,380 per week compared to the all industries average of $1,250). As the cost of living continues to bite, that’s a pretty big silver lining!

Here we’d like to share our rundown of high paying construction jobs, using the latest industry research from our recruitment experts across our Brisbane, Geelong, Gold Coast, Melbourne, and Sydney offices. It’s the perfect intel if you’re eager to climb the construction ladder.

We’ve also included important information about what’s driving demand for these positions, so you’re fully informed about the latest trends at play in our industry.

1. Construction Design Manager Salary

Construction Design Managers are in great demand, as they’re a highly specialised bunch in very short supply. They bridge the gap between the design and construction project phases, ensuring that design intentions are accurately translated into tangible results on-site. Their role is pivotal in ensuring a seamless transition from conceptual designs to fully realised structures.

As such, average annual salaries are $145,000, but the salary pay range can vary greatly, from $120,000 to over $250,000 — a fair chunk of change!

2. Construction Manager Salary

A Construction Manager oversees the planning, coordination and execution of construction projects, ensuring they’re completed on time, within budget and adhere to quality standards and regulations. A big part of their day involves liaising with clients, architects, engineers, construction personnel and other stakeholders, as well as managing multiple site teams.

A high-level job naturally commands high level pay. A Construction Project Manager salary averages out at $140,000, with pay packets in the lower range sitting around $120,000 and climbing beyond $350,000 at the higher end in some instances.

3. Construction Project Manager Salary

Coming in at number three on the list of high paying construction jobs are Construction Project Managers. These professionals are tasked with the job of planning, coordinating and supervising projects from inception to completion.

A Construction Project Manager salary averages $125,000. The lower end is around $100,000, while the top end can see figures enter the $300,000 arena.

4. Construction Foreperson Salary

Master communicators, Construction Forepersons are the intermediaries between their crew and higher-level management. Their primary task is supervising all that goes on in the construction site, from overseeing the day-to-day operations, to ensuring work progresses efficiently and safely, to managing teams of workers and subcontractors. It’s a multifaceted role that involves a mix of troubleshooting and managing resources to guide projects to timely and successful completion.

Australian Construction Forepersons take home an average annual pay packet of $117,000, but the salary range is quite large – the lower end at $110,000 and the upper at $190,000.

5. Senior Estimator Salary

You could say a construction Senior Estimator holds the crystal ball. They’re involved in both the financial and preparatory project stages, forecasting costs at all levels - materials, labour, equipment and so on. At this senior level, they usually also have expertise in identifying potential risks and changes in market conditions that might affect the project's financial outcome.

As one of the high paying construction jobs, Senior Estimators average $123,000, with a very big range from the lower end of $85,000 to well in excess of $180,000. Junior Estimators’ starting salaries range from $50,000 to $80,000.

6. Crane Operator Salary

The industry’s big lifters, Crane Operators use their cranes to move and position heavy objects at construction sites. While they need to be experts in working their machinery (not to mention weight limits and wind conditions!), they also have to be up to speed on safety, checking it over thoroughly to ensure it's in good working condition. Another crucial part of their role is to coordinate with other ground personnel, such as riggers and doggers.

Crane operators have an average pay packet of $82,000. The lower end sits around $73,000, while those with extensive experience can command up to $125,000.

What’s Driving Demand for Construction Jobs?

There are many reasons behind the demand for these high paying construction jobs. The most obvious is Australia’s infrastructure boom, much of it fuelled by significant investment from all sides of government into projects like road upgrades, rail projects, airport expansions and port developments. Each one requires a Construction Manager, Construction Project Manager, Foreperson and Estimator, with some so large they require dozens!

Australia’s burgeoning population has also resulted in plenty of residential construction works, from city-based dwellings to sprawling suburban estates. This growth has also led to further commercial constructions, both new and renovated.

Beyond traditional residential and commercial construction, there's been a huge uptick in sectors like renewable energy (e.g. wind farms, solar farms) and sustainable development (i.e. green buildings). These require specialised skills, resulting in an unprecedented demand for Construction Design Managers with a good understanding of sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems and green building standards.

As Aussie construction projects become increasingly intricate and involve advanced technologies and multifaceted designs, roles like Senior Estimators become ever more crucial. Their expertise in accounting for complexities in cost calculations is highly valued.

Summary

From urban transformations to innovative tech shaping your work, it’s clear the demand for construction professionals will continue for the foreseeable future. And if the jobs on this list are anything to go by, that’s translating to some impressive construction salaries!

Here at JV Recruitment, one of our main roles is to support our candidates in their quest to find rewarding construction jobs. If you’ve got experience in any of the areas listed here or would like to find out more about how you can take that next step into a higher-paying construction role, please feel free to get in touch with one of our specialist recruiters. We have offices in Brisbane, Geelong, Gold Coast, Melbourne, and Sydney and would love to help you find that next great construction job, whether permanent or contract.

* Quoted salary figures sourced from Seek, Payscale Australia and Glassdoor Australia. These are averaged figures across Australia – they will vary depending on location and job description.

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How to Choose the Right Construction Staffing Agency

13 May, 2024

Navigating the construction industry's Labour market can be complex and challenging. With every project, the need for skilled workers and dedicated staff is crucial. Finding the right construction staffing agency is paramount to ensure the success of your projects. 3 Factors to Vet Your Construction Staffing Agency A top-notch construction recruitment agency partner can make a world of difference to your time to hire, employee retention, and attracting the best candidates to your business. Experience and Expertise Your staffing agency should have a proven track record of placing workers in various construction roles and a deep understanding of industry-specific nuances. Ask about their previous successful placements in roles similar to what you need filling and request specific examples that demonstrate their knowledge of industry standards and regulations. At JV Recruitment, our team has over 15 years of experience in the construction industry. We have successfully placed thousands of skilled workers in roles ranging from entry-level positions to senior management. Our deep understanding of the industry allows us to identify the right candidates for your specific needs quickly. Quality Control and Compliance Compliance and quality control should be the unwavering foundation upon which your staffing strategy is built. Investigate the agency's procedures for vetting candidates, including screening for experience, qualifications, and any serious safety incidents . A comprehensive agency will have a rigorous selection process that filters employees based on their skills and ongoing development. JV Recruitment's comprehensive screening process includes thorough background checks, reference verifications, and skills assessments. We ensure that all candidates meet the necessary qualifications and have a clean safety record. Our ongoing training and development programs keep our workers up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices. Scalability and Speed Your staffing agency must match industry volatility with agility and responsiveness. Present potential staffing partners with scenario tests, such as last-minute changes to project scope or unanticipated staff absences, to evaluate their adaptability and available resources. JV Recruitment's extensive database of pre-qualified candidates allows us to quickly respond to your staffing needs, even in the face of unexpected changes. Our flexible approach and strong network enable us to scale our services to match your project requirements, whether you need a single worker for a short-term assignment or a large team for a long-term project. Direct Placement vs. Temporary Staffing The choice between permanent roles and temporary staffing depends on your project's requirements, your company's organisational structure, and the level of control you wish to maintain. The Permanence of Direct Placement Direct hires introduce skill sets for the long haul, commitment, and the gradual synergy that only comes from a permanent team working in unison. A construction staffing agency with prowess in direct placement should be your ambassador in the competitive market for talent. The Transience of Temporary Staffing Temporary staffing within the construction industry serves as a relief valve for project-based needs. It allows firms to maintain a lean operational structure, adapting labour costs to the project's flux. Look for a staffing partner who has a robust database of candidates, a quick turnaround time, and a system for managing temporal talent that supplements your existing hierarchy without structural strain. The Labourers Lifecycle: Safety, Training, and Retention The lifecycle of a labourers in the construction industry encompasses the continuum from safety induction through skills training to retention strategies that manage and grow talent within your projects. Safety First, Always A credible construction staffing agency prioritises safety by providing a comprehensive induction encompassing site-specific safety protocols and risk mitigation. Look for an agency that continually educates its workforce on the most current safety standards and practices. The Training Trestle A robust induction process is the bridge between a new hire's existing knowledge and their successful integration into your company's operations. When evaluating staffing agencies, examine the depth and quality of their induction programs. The agency's induction initiatives should align with your company's safety protocols, work practices, and growth projections, ensuring that new employees are well-prepared to contribute to your projects from day one. Retention Riddles Staffing agencies that proactively engage in retention strategies diffuse the productivity-killing bomb of high staff turnover. Evaluate the strategy your potential staffing agency has in place for preventing staff attrition, such as competitive compensation, workplace benefits, and career development pathways. At JV Recruitment , we understand the intricacies of the construction industry's labour market. With over 15 years of experience, our commitment to excellence in sourcing, safety, and staffing transcends numbers on a page; it's the lifeblood that energises every project we touch. Contact us to start a conversation about how we can partner on your next construction endeavour. We bring in the workforce you need at the speed you need without compromising on quality.

How to Advance Your Career in the Construction Industry

15 Apr, 2024

Are you a construction professional looking to take your career to new heights? Discover valuable advice and insights on career progression, upskilling, and networking that will help you build a thriving career in the construction industry. The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities for professionals looking to make their mark. Whether you're just starting or seeking to advance your career, there are several key strategies you can employ to reach your goals. Develop Your Skills Investing in your professional development is crucial for career advancement in the construction industry. Identify areas where you can improve your technical skills or acquire new ones that are in high demand. Consider pursuing certifications, attending workshops, or enrolling in courses that will enhance your expertise and make you a more valuable asset to your team. Build Your Network Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement in any industry, and construction is no exception. Attend industry events , join professional organisations, and connect with colleagues and specialist construction recruitment professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to valuable opportunities, such as job openings , partnerships, or mentorship. Seek Out Mentorship Finding a mentor who has already achieved the level of success you aspire to can be incredibly beneficial for your career growth. A mentor can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path. Look for experienced professionals within your organisation or industry who are willing to share their knowledge and insights. Take On New Challenges Demonstrating your ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities is key to advancing your career. Volunteer for projects that stretch your skills and offer to lead teams or propose innovative solutions to problems. By showing initiative and a willingness to learn, you'll position yourself as a valuable contributor to your organisation. Communicate Your Goals Make your career aspirations known to your supervisors and colleagues. Engage in regular c areer discussions with your manager and express your interest in taking on additional responsibilities or moving into leadership roles. By communicating your goals clearly, you'll be more likely to receive support and opportunities for growth. Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and regulations emerging all the time. To stay competitive and advance your career, it's essential to stay informed about the latest industry trends. Read industry publications, attend conferences , and participate in online forums to keep up-to-date and demonstrate your expertise. At JV Recruitment, we are committed to supporting construction professionals in achieving their career goals. Our team of experienced recruiters can provide valuable insights, job opportunities , and guidance to help you take your career to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your career growth in the construction industry.

The Importance of Soft Skills in the Construction Industry

27 Mar, 2024

The construction industry is a dynamic and challenging field that requires a diverse set of skills to succeed. While technical proficiency is undoubtedly necessary, the role of soft skills is often overlooked. In this blog post, we'll explore the crucial importance of soft skills in the construction industry and how they contribute to the success of construction professionals. Communication At JV Recruitment, we know communication is the foundation for any successful construction project. The roles we place emphasise: Active listening skills to understand the needs of site foremen, architects, and engineers and accurately translate that to tradespeople. Clearly conveying complex technical instructions, blueprints and project specs in ways that are easily understood, regardless of language barrier. Adaptability to communicate effectively across different audiences - from office managers focused on schedules and costs to hands-on construction crews in the field. Problem-Solving Construction is a field where unexpected issues are the norm, not the exception. Skilled problem-solvers are a must for the roles JV Recruitment fills. We seek candidates who can: 1. Quickly identify the root cause behind delays, code violations, material shortages or structural defects and implement a solution. 2. Think creatively to find workarounds like alternative materials, rerouting schedules or adjusting designs when roadblocks occur. 3. Make calculated decisions balancing quality, timelines and budgets to keep projects progressing despite changes and setbacks. Teamwork No construction job can be accomplished alone - our placements require collaboration across all levels of the project team. Top candidates demonstrate: 1. The ability to work cooperatively alongside project managers, engineers, inspectors, tradespeople and labourers towards shared milestones. 2. Resolving conflicts constructively through negotiation tactics, such as mediation of change orders or artistry disputes. 3. Flexibility to take on tasks outside their primary role, pivot from original plans and integrate seamlessly with new crew rotations. The Role of JV Recruitment At JV Recruitment, we understand the importance of soft skills in the construction industry. Our experienced team of recruiters is dedicated to helping construction professionals identify and cultivate the soft skills that will set them apart in their careers. Whether you're a seasoned construction professional looking to enhance your soft skills or a company seeking top talent with a potent combination of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities, JV Recruitment is here to support you. Browse our job openings or contact us to discuss your recruitment needs today.