Ground Workers are often the first and last construction operatives on a building project, as they excavate the site, lay foundations and then construct paths and driveways when the structure has been completed.
The role of a ground worker is skilled, and all recruiters will insist on formal qualifications and evidence of experience in the related building disciplines. While some workers studied at college for their qualifications, others were lucky enough to find work-based vocational training.
The laying of foundations, excavating of building sites and the installation of pathways requires a high level of knowledge, but they also require lots of experience. Work-based placements will involve working on sites for up to four days per week, and the fifth day will usually be spent in a classroom.
The demand for construction workers in general is somewhat depressed at the moment, but the housing needs of the UK mean that there will always be a need for experienced and qualified ground workers. National home building companies often have government-funded schemes available for young people, and smaller, local building firms will often take on apprentices to learn the skills from within the industry.
Employment as a ground worker will often require a qualification recognised by the Construction Plant Competence Scheme. Such qualifications rely on the candidate's ability to demonstrate their knowledge of ground work, and they must then be able to apply it to practical situations. Although many of the positions available are with fixed-term contracts, they generally pay anything between £8 and £12 per hour.