JUST SOME OF YOUR
CAREER choices
Discover a career in
the civil industry as a…
BRIDGE
CONSTRUCTOR
A bridge constructor gets to prepare for, construct and commission all the wooden, concrete and steel bridges that we drive on, walk on and ride trains over.
THE ROLE
THE CAREER
WHERE WILL YOU WORK?
Bridges are everywhere! You could work in regional or city areas and work over land, water; railways …the opportunities, and your choices, are large.
WHO WILL EMPLOY YOU?
You will have lots of options to work for small, medium and large businesses, local councils, and Government agencies.You can work in road, rail, water or other utilities – all of them need to construct and maintain bridges.
HOW SAFE IS IT?
Modern equipment is very, very safe. The civil construction industry is primarily funded by Government, and so is very safety focused.
IS THE WORK TECHNICALLY HARD?
It’s challenging, but not overly complex.Your employer will train you on the job in each task and each piece of equipment and system you operate. As technology improves and your experience broadens, you will keep learning more.
IS THE WORK PHYSICALLY HARD?
Some parts are physically demanding, but everyone is different and employers know that.
THE TRAINING
IS THERE TRAINING PROVIDED AND WILL IT COST YOU?
Everyone starts doing bridge building knowing nothing about it! Your employer will train you and pay for it. If you want to get a qualification it will be paid for by the employer and the Government.
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION?
Yes, if you want. It’s not essential, but you can receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification such as a Certificate III in Bridge Construction and Maintenance.
CAN YOU GET A TRADE?
Yes, in most States ‘Bridge Construction and Maintenance is a Trade.
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
People who like working outdoors and who enjoy practical tasks. People with good hand-eye coordination often learn quickly. You should be comfortable with heights.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO START?
You have to be at least 14 years of age.
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
There are NO minimum score results, or subjects, required. A reasonable understanding in maths will make more senior roles easier.
ARE THERE ANY PREREQUISITES TO STARTING?
No. Your employer will even pay for your safety gear!
THE FUTURE
IS THERE A FUTURE CAREER?
Yes! You will have lots of options.You could become a specialist bridge builder; a manager, set up your own business, or even go on to university and become an engineer. Bridges differ depending on what they span and what they carry, but what is common is there are a lot of them.
WILL YOU HAVE TO MOVE AROUND?
No. It’s your call when you choose between jobs as some employers have projects in different locations. If you do move, your expenses are often covered by the employer.
CAN YOU GET MORE SKILLS LATER?
Yes, if you want to. There are Certificate IVs, Diplomas and management courses you can do. It’s your call what you do and how far you go!
CAN YOU GO TO UNI ONE DAY?
Yes. The practical skills you learn will be very useful for engineering-related courses.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
There are a few options… Many work for a bit as a Site Hand on any civil construction site to learn the ropes. However, it’s also possible to start as an Apprentice.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Check out our Civil Career Map or look at this Role’s Detailed Description on our website www.careerincivil.com