A practical guide for construction company owners on how to hire skilled trades and site managers: defining the role, verifying tickets, and building a permanent team.
Start with a clear brief
Before you advertise or speak to a recruiter, define what the role actually is. List the trade, the type of work, the tickets needed, the sites and travel involved, and what a good first three months would look like. A clear brief saves time on both sides and helps a recruiter shortlist people who genuinely fit.
Check cards and tickets
Most construction roles need a valid CSCS card, and many need further tickets such as CPCS or NPORS for plant, SSSTS or SMSTS for supervisors and managers, and trade specific qualifications. Ask to see them early and confirm the details before an offer.
Look for reliability as well as skill
A highly skilled tradesperson who does not turn up is a problem on any site. In conversations and references, ask about how people have handled pressure, tight programmes and working with others, not only what they can build.
Think permanent
Permanent hires know your standards, build relationships with clients and supervisors, and stay productive without constant retraining. When you plan to grow, building a stable team is often more efficient than repeatedly filling gaps.
Move quickly, but properly
Good tradespeople are rarely on the market long. Keep your process short, give clear feedback and be upfront about pay and expectations. A specialist recruiter can help you move at pace without cutting corners.