site Inspector

The Job  

All building, construction and civil engineering sites need to be tested and inspected for safety and competence. It will be your job to ensure the quantity and quality of materials, as well as check standards of workmanship and assembly.

The People  

The job is primarily based on-site, so you will need to be prepared to work outside most of the time. The building regulations, construction plans and specifications are very precise, so you will also need to pay great attention to detail. You will also need good interpersonal skills, confidence and the ability to work as part of a team.

Entry Requirements  

There are no set entry requirements to train as a site inspector (or clerk of works as it is sometimes known) although GCSEs/Standard Grades in Maths, English and Technology will be helpful.

Apprenticeships are available, enabling you to earn while you learn, but ideally you should have already trained in a field of construction before branching into site inspection.

The Institute of Clerks of Works (ICW) is the relevant professional board. Entry to the ICW depends on qualifications achieved, typically NVQ/SVQ Levels 3 and 4 in Site Inspection and an in depth interview and a materials identification test.

The Benefits  

The salary for a newly qualified site inspector is around £18,000 and can increase to £35,000 for senior inspectors. There is also the possibility to work on a variety of projects around the UK and abroad. For further information on salaries see professional institutions and industry press.