Why 2026 Matters for Construction Careers

Industry analysts expect the UK construction market to rebound modestly in 2026 after a difficult 2024–25. The Construction Products Association forecasts total output to grow about 2.8 % in 2026, while CITB projects around 2.1 % growth per year to 2029, meaning hundreds of thousands of additional workers will be needed mid‑decade. Key growth sectors include private housing and refurbishment, infrastructure and industrial projects.

However, growth is only part of the story. Persistent skill shortages remain a major challenge. Recruiters forecast ongoing scarcity in experienced site managers, project managers, quantity surveyors, planners and health & safety professionals, alongside pressure in core trades like bricklaying, joinery and groundworks. Organisations are also grappling with labour shortages as older workers retire and apprenticeship uptake lags.

At the same time, the industry is evolving. Modern methods of construction, off‑site manufacturing and digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), drones and AI are becoming mainstream. Sustainable materials and net‑zero design are now baseline expectations, and clients expect environmentally friendly refurbishments. These trends create opportunities for professionals who embrace technology and green construction practices.

High‑Demand Roles and Skills for 2026

According to recruiters and industry forecasts, several roles will be especially sought‑after next year:

• Quantity Surveyor / Estimator – With cost control and value‑engineering under greater scrutiny, estimators and quantity surveyors who can balance budgets, manage risks and incorporate sustainability are among the highest‑paid and most in‑demand professionals. In fact, recruiters identify quantity surveying as one of the top three construction jobs for 2026.

• Site Engineer / Project Manager – Site engineers keep projects on schedule, ensure safety and manage quality. Their technical skills are vital as infrastructure and refurbishment work accelerates. Salaries have been increasing, reflecting high demand. Experienced project managers who can lead multi‑phase schemes and drive programme certainty are also in short supply.

• Sustainability & Renewable Energy Project Manager – As net‑zero commitments and renewable infrastructure projects expand, professionals who can bridge construction delivery and green technologies are becoming essential. V7 Recruitment notes that sustainability managers are “some of the most future‑proof roles”.

• Digital & Modern Methods Specialists – The shift towards BIM, digital twins, drones and off‑site construction means demand for people skilled in digital tools, data analysis and modular building will rise. Drone pilots and surveyors who can capture accurate site data and inspect roofs or facades safely are already valued.

• Multiskilled Trades & Maintenance Operatives – With refurbishment and small works forming a large share of 2026 activity, versatile tradespeople who can handle carpentry, plumbing, decorating and minor repairs will be highly employable.

• Facilities & Premises Managers – As organisations prioritise compliance and building safety, there is strong demand for professionals who can oversee maintenance, inspections and contractor management.

Current Opportunities at Barry Turner & Son

Barry Turner & Son is expanding to meet 2026 demand and currently has several roles open:

Estimator (Hybrid)

• Overview: Prepare accurate cost estimates and tender submissions for construction, maintenance and refurbishment projects.

• Key duties: Interpret drawings and scopes, liaise with suppliers and subcontractors, support bid strategy and attend site visits.

• Skills: 3+ years’ experience in estimating/quantity surveying, proficiency in Excel/estimating software and strong numerical and communication skills.

• What we offer: Competitive salary (from £50,000), hybrid working in Romford, ongoing training and progression.

Do not miss on the opportunity and apply now for the Estimator Role by contacting us through our contact form!

Multi‑Trader Operative (On‑Site)

• Overview: Carry out a wide range of repair, maintenance and refurbishment tasks across commercial and residential sites.

• Key duties: Perform carpentry, plumbing, tiling, painting and decorating; respond to reactive callouts; support refurbishment projects and ensure health and safety compliance.

• Skills: Experience across multiple trades, good problem‑solving and time management, full driving licence preferred.

• What we offer: Competitive salary, tools and van, training and career progression.

Premises Manager (On‑Site)

• Overview: Manage building safety, maintenance and compliance across key sites.

• Key duties: Schedule maintenance and inspections, liaise with contractors, manage access and security, maintain records and respond to issues.

• Skills: Experience in facilities management, knowledge of building systems and compliance, strong organisation and communication.

• What we offer: Competitive salary, supportive environment, training and progression, company uniform and equipment.

Roofer (On‑Site)

• Overview: Conduct roofing repairs, renewals and installations across domestic and commercial properties.

• Key duties: Work with tiles, slates, felt and liquid systems; diagnose defects; ensure health and safety compliance and accurate job records.

• Skills: Proven experience, confident working at height, knowledge of different roofing systems and materials, CSCS card and driving licence.

• What we offer: Competitive pay with overtime, company vehicle and PPE, ongoing training and a supportive family‑run culture.

These roles reflect wider industry demand for quantity surveyors/estimators, multiskilled trades, facilities management and specialised trades such as roofing.

Preparing for a Construction Career in 2026

Whether you’re applying for one of our current roles or planning a career shift, here are strategies to future‑proof your skills:

1. Invest in training and qualifications. Modern construction increasingly requires formal credentials. For estimators and quantity surveyors, consider further education in cost management and sustainability. Multiskilled operatives should gain NVQs in carpentry, plumbing or related trades. Facility managers can benefit from IOSH/NEBOSH health and safety training.

2. Develop digital literacy. Familiarise yourself with BIM software, drones, data analytics and project management platforms; digital skills are critical as AI, digital twins and drones become mainstream.

3. Embrace sustainability. Learn about energy‑efficient materials, renewable technologies and green building standards. Sustainability managers and project leads will be essential and knowledge of low‑carbon methods will set you apart.

4. Hone soft skills. Communication, problem‑solving and teamwork are invaluable. Estimators must liaise with suppliers and colleagues, multi‑trade operatives interact with tenants and site managers and premises managers coordinate contractors.

5. Stay adaptable. The sector is evolving quickly. Be open to learning new techniques, from off‑site construction to drone surveys and AI‑assisted inspections.

Why Barry Turner & Son?

Choosing the right employer is as important as choosing the right role. Barry Turner & Son offers:

• Local expertise and longevity: over 25 years’ experience across Kent, London and the South East

  

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• Fully insured, accredited tradespeople: we are SafeContractor approved, Gas Safe registered and Mitsubishi Electric accredited.

• Emergency response and refurbishment capability: as highlighted in our "Office Refurbishment in Kent" article, we deliver responsive services and modern fit‑outs.

• All‑in‑one building solutions: our teams cover plumbing, electrical, roofing, maintenance and refurbishment, offering opportunities to develop diverse skills.

• Supportive culture: we’re a family‑run business that values employees’ growth and wellbeing. Each role includes training, development and clear progression paths.

Ready to Build Your Future?

2026 promises growth, innovation and opportunity across the UK construction sector. By understanding the trends shaping the industry and aligning your skills accordingly, you can secure a rewarding career in a field that builds the places we live and work.

At Barry Turner & Son, we’re excited to welcome talented people who are ready to grow with us. Whether you’re an experienced estimator, a multi‑trade operative looking for variety, a facilities professional who keeps buildings safe, or a skilled roofer ready for new challenges, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit our Work for Us page to learn more about current vacancies and explore our news section for insights like our 2025 Office Refurbishment guide that showcases the quality and expertise we deliver. Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future in 2026 and beyond.