The construction industry faces a persistent worker shortage across the EU, making skilled professionals highly sought after. Employers prioritize hands-on experience and practical skills over formal education, creating job opportunities for workers at all levels.

In-Demand Construction Jobs

According to the “Barometer of Professions,” several roles in construction are experiencing shortages, including:

• Construction and formwork carpenters
• Roofers
• Electricians and electrical fitters
• Bricklayers and plasterers
• General building workers

Reports from Eurofound highlight severe worker shortages in Belgium, Ireland, the Czech Republic, Portugal, and Italy. To address this, employers are streamlining recruitment and focusing on quickly filling vacancies.

Key Responsibilities in Construction

Job duties vary by role:

• Construction Assistant – Basic physical tasks, material transport, scaffolding setup
• Construction Worker – Formwork, scaffolding, bricklaying, plastering, finishing work
• Bricklayer – Building foundations and walls
• Machine Operator – Operating construction machinery
• Foreman – Supervising teams, organizing schedules
• Construction Manager – Overseeing project progress and quality control

Qualifications and Skills

While formal education is not always necessary, specialized trades (electricians, fitters, carpenters) require vocational training or certification. Relevant qualifications can be obtained through:

• Vocational schools
• Technical high schools
• Post-secondary courses
• Engineering studies

Practical experience, internships, and certifications in working at heights, machinery operation, and technical drawing enhance job prospects. Key skills employers look for include:

• Physical fitness and stamina
• Attention to detail and conscientiousness
• Teamwork and responsibility
• Good eyesight and hearing

Working Conditions

• Construction workers typically start at entry-level positions, regardless of skills or education
• Internships of at least one year are required for workers with a relevant degree; construction managers need two years
• Most construction jobs are seasonal, with long shifts (9-12 hours) and six-day workweeks
• Overtime is common and usually paid extra

Salaries in Construction

Earnings depend on experience, location, and job role. Estimated gross salaries in different European countries:

• Construction Worker:
  • Poland: 5,360–6,580 PLN
  • Germany: 15–22 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 14–20 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 15–22 EUR/hour
• Electrician:
  • Poland: 4,570–6,610 PLN
  • Germany: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 18–25 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 20–28 EUR/hour
• Fitter:
  • Poland: 4,320–4,940 PLN
  • Germany: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 18–25 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 20–28 EUR/hour
• Carpenter:
  • Poland: 4,670–6,130 PLN
  • Germany: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 20–28 EUR/hour
• Bricklayer:
  • Poland: 4,290–6,670 PLN
  • Germany: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 18–26 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 18–26 EUR/hour
• Machine Operator:
  • Poland: 4,880–7,000 PLN
  • Germany: 14–22 EUR/hour
  • Belgium: 16–22 EUR/hour
  • Netherlands: 16–24 EUR/hour

Pros and Cons of Construction Work

Advantages:
✔ Legal employment with stable hours
✔ No formal education required for many roles
✔ Numerous job opportunities and quick hiring processes

Disadvantages:
✖ Physically demanding work
✖ Often seasonal employment
✖ Long hours with frequent overtime

For those looking to work in the construction sector, Europe offers many opportunities, particularly in high-demand countries.