While it might not necessarily rank high on career lists, there are many benefits to working in the field of construction. Job security, high economic demand, great career-growth opportunities and, in many cases, higher-than-average salaries are among them.
Here are the 10 best construction jobs in Malaysia, in order of pay.
1. Construction managers
Construction management is not only considered one of the best careers in the industry, it’s also listed as one of the best jobs in the country. A construction manager generally makes the highest salary in the industry owing to the responsibilities they are expected to shoulder.
The average salary of a construction manager is RM125,000 a year.
Like any other managerial job, becoming a construction manager will take some time. Typically, you would start off in an entry-level position in the construction field and move your way up.
A bachelor’s degree isn’t always necessary but, as industry trends evolve, it’s increasingly more common for construction-management positions to require some sort of higher education.
2. Electrician
Benefits of being an electrician include the ability to be your own boss, the reported 10-year job growth, and much more. It’s one of the highest-paying jobs someone without a university degree could have.
Electricians install, maintain and repair practically anything that runs on electrical power in homes, businesses, and factories. Electrical systems in commercial and residential buildings alike typically require the expertise of a licensed electrician, both for installations and repairs.
The average salary of an electrician is RM50,000 a year, but the top 10% in Malaysia earn over RM90,000.
While lucrative, electricians often remain on call for after-hours emergencies including times of inclement weather. They can also be expected to work overtime.
To become an electrician, some start off as apprentices, while others go through a trade or technical school.
Electricians must have a diploma or equivalent. Although a degree isn’t necessary, it can be helpful if someone is looking to specialise in a specific area such as industrial equipment.
3. Plumber
Anyone who’s ever dealt with low water pressure or a leaky tap can see why the plumbing profession remains in such high demand. Whether in a residential apartment complex, a warehousing facility, or a high-end corporate office, a plumber will always be necessary.
The job involves much more than fixing a dripping pipe under the sink. It includes the installation, maintenance, and repair of any pipe or system that involves moving a liquid or a gas.
Other duties include inspecting plumbing systems; troubleshooting issues; developing and interpreting blueprints; and installing, repairing and maintaining heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
The average plumber makes RM50,000 annually, although the lowest 10% could make RM36,000 or less.
A four or five-year apprenticeship is sufficient to become a plumber. Although a bachelor’s degree isn’t necessary, there nevertheless are degree programmes for this trade.
4. Site manager
Site managers work on building and construction sites to ensure a project completes safely, on time, and within budget.
They monitor and direct contractor activities from start to finish, and oversee contractors and subcontractors from site preparation and foundation-laying to the final touches.
Site managers supervise the process with a critical eye, provide input on selecting and hiring contractors, and serve as a liaison between contractors and clients. They might also hire, train, and manage employees on projects, provide input on planning and development, and maintain site safety.
The average site manager makes RM72,000 annually, but the top 10% earn over RM90,000.
An appropriate degree in construction or building management, engineering, construction engineering management, or civil/structural engineering is required. Experience in the working environment is also necessary.
5. Quantity surveyor
Quantity surveyors ensure building projects remain within budget. They provide cost and material estimates, draw up projected budgets, and work alongside a team, noting any design changes and their effect on cost.
Quantity surveyors often liaise with builders, architects, engineers, and other contractors to:
- review construction plans and prepare quantity requirements;
- scrutinise maintenance and material costs, as well as contracts to ensure the best deals;
- liaise with site managers, clients, contractors and subcontractors;
- prepare reports, analyses, contracts, budgets, risk assessment, and other documents; and
- advise managers and clients on improvements and new strategies.
Quantity surveyors make an average of RM45,000 annually, but the top 10% can earn over RM60,000.
An appropriate degree in quantity surveying, engineering, management or similar is required. Experience in construction finance would be advantageous.
This article first appeared in jobstore.com, an online job site that specialises in providing jobseekers with the latest job opportunities by matching talented individuals with reputable companies in Malaysia. Find your dream job with over 40,000 job vacancies in Malaysia.