In terms of GDP, Scotland is known for whisky exports, tourism, and oil and gas extraction in the continental shelf. In reality, 75% of Scotland’s GDP comes from the service sector, made up of the retail, financial, and public sectors. Outside of these tertiary sectors, construction contributes a healthy 6% towards Scotland’s GDP, and has remained strong despite numerous challenges [1]. Scotland’s construction industry employed 231,000 in 2021 (CITB, 2023), with construction output estimated to be above £13.3 billion in 2022 (CIOB, 2023). The public sector is a key client within the industry, spending more than £4 billion annually (Scottish Government, 2021) [2].
At Orion Group, where we specialise in engineering and technical placements, where many of our vacancies in construction and infrastructure come from Civils and Infrastructure projects for large energy projects, mostly related to SSE ASTI Framework. This is in line with the need for significant network improvement and investment to meet the UK’s ambitious 50GW of offshore wind by 2030. This would include the construction of onshore substations, transmission lines, cabling and more.
As well as being renewable driven, we also have positions that come up for Commercial Construction, and to a lesser extent, Residential. The need for construction talent is never ending, with demand always at a high during a national shortage of skilled construction workers. While construction in Scotland is in a healthy state, it’s important to look at what drives the construction industry, what are the key challenges, and what are the common roles within it which are required to maintain its momentum.
Key drivers in construction:
Like any industry, the construction industry is no stranger to embracing technology to improve efficiency and stay ahead of other industries, while being as sustainable as possible in today’s carbon reduction environment. Here are some of the key drivers which are pushing the construction industry into the digital and sustainable age:
Integration of Advanced Technologies: The construction industry is rapidly adopting technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), which allows architects, engineers, and contractors, to collaborate on digital models of buildings to help them map out the building process over time within the model in the design phase. This helps prevent costly mistakes later and speeds up the construction process. The use of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) also helps to improve project planning, execution, and management
Sustainable Building Practices: The industry is increasingly focusing on green building techniques, carbon reduction, and energy-efficient designs to address environmental concerns. This approach involves using eco-friendly materials, optimising energy efficiency, and minimising waste throughout the construction process
Modular and Prefabricated Construction: These methods are gaining traction as solutions to labour shortages and for improving construction efficiency.
Digital Twins and IoT: Used in conjunction with Advanced Technologies, the use of digital twins and Internet of Things (IoT) devices provides real-time monitoring information and can improve performance optimisation of buildings and infrastructure across all phases.
Overcoming work force shortages and skills gaps
While advanced technology is a significant addition to the construction industry, the construction sector in Scotland faces sizeable challenges with respect to workforce shortages and skills gaps. Like many sectors, construction has been impacted by an aging workforce, with fewer younger workers entering the field, and recruitment is expected to be one of the sector's greatest challenges over the next few years and even beyond.
To address these shortages, Scotland has invested in apprenticeships and training programs to attract young talent to the industry. There are several organisations, such as Skills Development Scotland and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), that offer apprenticeships and technical education programs in collaboration with educational institutions and industry partners. This is to encourage young people and provide them with the skills needed within today’s hi-tech construction environment, including familiarity with sustainable practices, digital tools, and construction management [3]. In order to meet the transition to net zero, it will be vital for the sector to maintain a strong, skilled workforce with sufficient capacity and capability to deliver on the anticipated increased demand.
Construction roles in demand
With a long history in supporting and delivering skilled personnel to the construction industry in Scotland, there are certain roles that keep coming up time and again which are crucial for the continued growth in the industry. These roles would also be a guide to aspiring construction employees or those wishing to transition from other industries. These include:
Site Engineer - Supports the overall implementation of the engineering strategy and framework for the design and construction of a project, ensuring materials, plant, and labour, are within the allocated budget and resources, ensuring their safe, effective and efficient delivery of service on the project. While continually supporting the project delivery teams, they also ensure all systems, design information, procedures, and quality systems are effectively communicated.
Design Manager – Within construction projects, a Design Manager oversees the entire design process from conception to execution. Their responsibilities encompass various aspects of project management (scheduling and coordination), development (resolve design issues), and quality control (ensure compliance).
Foreman – A foreman plays a critical role in managing and overseeing construction projects, acting as a bridge between the crew and upper management. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks aimed at ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. A Foreman takes full responsibility for controlling all physical elements of the work from commencement through to completion, and to maintain and maximise quality of service and profitability.
Site/Construction Manager - Construction managers oversee the entire construction process, from planning and scheduling to budgeting and coordination. They manage teams, ensure compliance with regulations, and act as the point of contact between clients, architects, and contractors.
MEP Engineer - MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineers specialise in the design and installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems within buildings. They ensure proper functioning and integration of HVAC systems, electrical systems, and plumbing networks. Required across the majority of civil engineering projects, these roles are always in high demand.
Quantity Surveyor – The main role of a quantity surveyor is to keep a close eye on project finances and contractual relationships. They make sure that the financial position of construction projects is accurately reported and controlled effectively. Additional roles include preparing tender and contract documents with the architect and clients, identifying risks surrounding the project, and communicating across multiple teams involved in the project.
Site/Sub Agent – Mainly found in civil projects, a site agent ensures construction works are organised, and workers have the required resources they need to carry out their roles effectively. They also monitor and direct the project execution to completion, and ensure contractors complete their duties within the scheduled time and budget.
Skilled Tradesman - Made up of carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, electrical work, plastering, tiling, and general maintenance, these skilled workers possess expertise in various construction trades and can perform a wide range of tasks on a construction site.
Scotland’s construction industry can continue to grow
In conclusion, Scotland's construction industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years, especially with the need to meet renewable infrastructure targets. Despite facing challenges such as workforce shortages and skills gaps, initiatives like apprenticeships and training programs are being implemented to address these issues. As the sector embraces advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and modular construction methods, demand for skilled professionals across various roles will continue to rise. With a focus on infrastructure development, renewable energy projects, and the transition to net zero, Scotland's construction industry is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the country's economic growth and sustainable future. Orion will be there for candidates and clients alike to help keep Scotland’s construction, infrastructure, and civil engineering industry moving forward.
Orion Group
Orion Group specialises in construction and infrastructure recruitment around the world, with dedicated recruitment specialists in Scotland, so please get in touch with us and have a look at our current vacancies in the sector:
Whatever stage you are at in your career, Orion Group is one of the most respected recruitment agencies operating currently, with nearly 40 years in providing candidates and clients with the best opportunities in the industry.
