This is the first in a regular spotlight on the construction job market. Focusing on a different role each issue we will look at what’s happening and what you can do to maximise your career opportunities. The information was gathered from Hays Montrose’s 50 offices during early January.
We begin with a look at site managers — and the indicators look good. We are seeing an increase in both contracts awarded and tender activity and reflecting this the majority of offices report a rise in site management vacancies. Interestingly the type of work varies between regions, with the south registering more housing vacancies while managers with public sector or pfi skills are needed in the north.

The availability of good site managers however, is decreasing and uncertainty about the market seems to be holding some back from changing jobs. This may not be a bad thing as more and more companies are looking for loyalty when recruiting. Further questioning reveals that companies want recruits with a stable employment background; a minimum of five years with each employer is ideal.

Employers need to be more aware of the long-term career needs of their site managers. While some do move frequently to take advantage of higher salaries there are many that move simply to broaden their project experience — another quality high on employers’ wish lists. Increased care of site managers — whether in terms of training, broadening experience or financial reward – has many advantages for employer and employee.

But what are employers doing to hold onto site managers? Not much, but we have noticed an increase in counter-offers to try and retain site managers. Rarely successful when offered once a notice has been tendered, they again highlight the need for a more forward-thinking approach to staff retention.

Offices are reporting a wide disparity in salaries, ranging from a site manager with five years experience in greater London offered £33,000 + £4,000 bonus, car, pension and healthcare to £17,500 with no benefits in East Anglia.

Interestingly for readers of Construction Manager we place a higher percentage of chartered applicants than non-chartered. However only around 10% of clients ask for a CIOB qualification when registering a vacancy. How can we improve this? We look forward to your thoughts. Email them to: helen.sykes@hays-montrose.com

Source

Construction Manager