Transitioning Your Career into the Construction Space in India

Last updated on May 8, 2023

Photo by Danist Soh on Unsplash

If you're looking to transition into a career in the construction space but not sure where to start, don't worry. Transitioning into a career in the construction space in India has never been easier. From salary insights in INR, challenges and obstacles you might face and actionable steps to take to make the transition smoother, we've got it all covered.

Why Pursue a Career in the Construction Space?

One of the main reasons why people pursue careers in the construction space is that it is one of the largest and most significant contributors to India's rapidly growing economy. In 2019, the construction sector contributed around 5.8% to India's GDP, making it one of the most lucrative and in-demand industries in the country. With the growth in infrastructure and the focus of the Indian government on developing smart cities, the demand for skilled workers in the construction space is expected to increase even further.

Apart from the economic benefits, a career in the construction space also provides an individual with the chance to hone their problem-solving skills, broadens their horizon and helps them gain valuable experience. A career in the construction space is also rewarding, both financially and emotionally. It can allow individuals to tap into their creative side and bring their ideas to life.

How to Begin Transitioning into a Career in the Construction Space in India

When it comes to transitioning into a career in the construction space in India, there are numerous ways to go about it. You can opt to pursue a college degree in a related field such as civil engineering, architecture, urban planning or construction management. This can open doors for you to secure internships and/or jobs with construction companies, property developers or government institutions. There are also programs and courses available that provide career guidance and preparation for transitioning into the construction space.

Alternatively, there are also some entry-level job opportunities available for those who do not have the required qualifications or experience yet. One way to get your foot in the door is to start off as a labourer or apprentice. This is an ideal option for those who are just starting out, as it can help individuals learn the ropes, gain relevant experience and understand the industry better. It is, however, important to bear in mind that the salary is usually lower at this level.

Salary Insights in INR for the Construction Space in India

Salaries in the construction space in India usually depends on experience and expertise and can range anywhere from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per month for entry-level positions. For more specialized positions such as project managers or supervisors, salaries can range anywhere from INR 40,000 to INR 1 lakh per month. It can rise even more for those with more experience and higher qualifications.

Real-Life Examples of People Who Have Successfully Transitioned into the Construction Space in India

If you’re looking for inspiration and motivation to transition into a career in the construction space, look no further than these real-life examples of people who have made the successful transition.

Meet Ankit, a 24-year-old graduate of civil engineering from Delhi. In 2018, Ankit applied and secured an internship with a top construction company in the city. During his internship, Ankit was able to put his theoretical knowledge into practice and gain exposure to the everyday operations of the industry. Soon after, he was promoted to the position of an assistant engineer and even got a salary hike. Ankit’s career transition serves as a great example of the opportunities available in the construction space in India for the right individual.

Meanwhile, 28-year-old Priya has also successfully transitioned into the construction space in India. Priya was always passionate about architecture and urban planning, however she had no experience or qualifications in the field. After completing an internship program and then a few months of additional training, she finally found a job as an assistant project manager in a leading real estate developer. Fast forward two years, Priya is now a successful project manager, managing multiple large-scale projects.

Challenges and Obstacles You Might Face During the Transition Process

When transitioning into a career in the construction space, there are bound to a few challenges and obstacles. It is important to be aware of such challenges as they can potentially derail your transition process.

One of the biggest challenges is having insufficient qualifications and/or experience. As the construction space is highly competitive and demands specialized skills, individuals who are just starting out often find it difficult to break into the industry. This can be overcome by completing internships and specialized training. This can help ease the transition process and increase your chances of getting a job in the construction space.

Apart from the lack of qualifications and experience, the other challenge is the lack of suitable job opportunities. Due to the high demand for jobs in the construction space, there are often not enough openings to go around. This can be a hindrance for those who are looking for job opportunities in the industry. However, this can be overcome by continuously researching and applying for positions in the construction space.

Actionable Steps to Make the Transition Smoother

1. Gain Knowledge: It is important to equip yourself with the appropriate knowledge and skills necessary to make a successful transition into the construction space. Research and study relevant topics, read industry-specific news and articles, attend seminars and webinars, and take online courses to gain expertise in the domain. This can help you gain a better understanding of the industry and give you an edge over other applicants.

2. Network: Networking is another great way to make the transition smoother. Attending industry-related events, conferences, and meet-ups can help you find potential job opportunities and develop connections in the industry.

3. Create an Impressive Portfolio: Having a strong portfolio with relevant projects is essential when transitioning into the construction space. This can be used to showcase your skills and accomplishments, and give employers an indication of your capabilities and experiences in the industry.

Conclusion

Transitioning into a career in the construction space in India can be a daunting task, however there are numerous avenues available to help make the transition easier. It is important to be aware of the relevant industry standards and requirements, network, build a strong portfolio, and equip yourself with the right knowledge and skills. With a bit of perseverance and hard work, transitioning into a career in the construction space in India can be a rewarding experience both financially and personally.