INDUSTRY SECTORS
Construction A
lthough the construction sector experienced delays in projects throughout 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent border closures, it’s expected to recover and improve through to 2025. Demand from the public sector, such as the building of new MRT lines, BTO housing and health infrastructure, is set to prop up the industry as well. Singapore’s continuous drive towards environmentally-sustainable land development has also made the green economy into a driving factor. For instance, a significant contribution to this sector has come in the shape of green bonds on select public infrastructure projects, like Tuas Nexus, due for completion also in 2025. Renewable energy, energy efficiency consultancy, waste management, recovery, recycling and water and wastewater management are some of the many subareas within the construction industry projected to grow by leaps and bounds as well.
You’ll need… • An eye for detail • Organisational skills • To be an independent worker • To be a team player • Sound technical knowledge
Types of employers • Engineering consultancy firms • Multi-disciplinary construction groups • General contractors • Construction firms • Demolition companies • Government development boards • Property developers • Consultancy firms • Utility companies • Design consultants • Financing and investment companies 120 |
directory 2022
Types of jobs • Architect • Quantity surveyor • Civil engineer • Project manager • Contracts manager • Construction estimator • Building services engineer • Facilities manager • Consulting engineer • Building project manager • Energy consultant • Health and safety
Job-hunting tips • Sustainable development or “green construction” knowledge is in high demand among construction-related employers. Be sure to highlight such knowledge, skills or qualifications if they’re possessed, or consider picking them up • As construction companies tend to be more low-key about hiring graduates, hopefuls should take proactive steps to network with employers, or get involved with relevant professional bodies which may be able to set them in the right direction
Work experience Some construction companies prefer summer internships while others have more flexible internship programmes. Check in with campus career services centres.
Deadlines Certain large companies have structured graduate recruitment programmes, with deadlines either from January to February, or August to September. However, most construction companies recruit year-round whenever vacancies arise.
Did you know? As the global economy gradually recovers and transitions into a postcoronavirus world, construction demand in the private sector is set to hit $11 billion to $14 billion every year between 2022 and 2025.
