How to Start a Career in Construction in WA
If you're keen on working in the WA construction industry, you're in luck – the demand for skilled workers is high, and there are plenty of opportunities available. But how do you get started in this booming sector? Here’s everything you need to know about launching your construction career in Western Australia – from essential qualifications to where to find jobs.
Career Opportunities in Construction
The construction industry is one of the largest and most diverse sectors in Western Australia. It offers long-term career potential, opportunities for advancement, and a wide range of roles to suit different skills, interests, and experience levels.
Here are just some of the construction jobs available in WA:
General Labourers
These entry-level roles are perfect for newcomers to the industry. Tasks include site clean-up, material handling, assisting tradespeople, and basic manual labour. Great for gaining experience and moving into more specialised roles.
Construction Trades
Includes carpenters, electricians, bricklayers, plasterers, roofers, and tilers. These skilled roles often require apprenticeships but offer strong job security and good pay. Many tradies go on to start their own businesses.
Plant & Machinery Operators
Operate machinery such as forklifts, excavators, skid steers, and scissor or boom lifts. Roles often require high-risk work licences and are essential on both residential and commercial sites.
High-Risk Workers
These roles involve operating cranes, rigging, dogging, and scaffolding. They require specialist training and are in high demand on large-scale projects like highways, stadiums, and industrial builds.
Site Supervisors & Project Managers
For those with experience or additional qualifications, management roles oversee timelines, budgets, safety, and staff coordination. These positions offer higher salaries and leadership pathways.
Traffic Controllers, Safety Officers & Logistics Coordinators
These roles support construction operations by managing site safety, vehicle flow, and materials delivery.
Whether you want hands-on work or a long-term career path, there are construction work opportunities to match your goals.
Required Construction Industry Training
Before stepping onto a site, you’ll need to complete mandatory training. This ensures you’re prepared to work safely and legally within the building and construction industry in WA.
Core Certifications:
- Construction White Card (CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry) is a legal requirement to access any construction site in Australia. This is your entry point to the industry.
- Working Safely at Heights (WSAH) is required if you'll be working above ground level – common in roofing, scaffolding, and commercial builds.
- Forklift Licence is needed to operate forklifts – often used for material transport on commercial sites and in warehouses.
- Elevated Work Platform (EWP) Licence is required to operate scissor lifts or boom lifts – common in high-access jobs like painting, electrical, or steelworks.
- High-Risk Work Licences is essential for scaffolding, dogging, rigging, or crane operation. These roles are well-paid and highly valued in major infrastructure projects.
How to Get Construction Training in Perth
If you're wondering how to start a career in construction, getting trained through a recognised provider is the first step. Equip-Safe offers nationally accredited training programs that are practical, affordable, and tailored to the WA construction industry.
Equip-Safe’s Training Courses
Equip-Safe offers a range of construction training options to suit different experience levels and career goals:
Construction Industry Preparation Skill Set (Fee-Free)
Ideal for beginners, this WA Government Fee-Free course gives you a strong foundation with:
- White Card – legal site access
- Working Safely at Heights
- Elevated Work Platforms (under 11m)
Orange Card (Nationally Recognised Yellow Card Alternative)
Equip-Safe’s Orange Card courses include certifications and combo training for:
EWP Over 11m + High-Risk Work Licence
For those operating larger elevated platforms. This course is typically needed for high-rise construction, mining infrastructure, or major industrial sites.
Forklift Licence + High-Risk Work
This course is ideal for material handling and logistics on large construction sites. Warehousing, transport yards, and commercial developments all rely on certified forklift operators.
Additional Industry Courses
Equip-Safe also offers courses in height safety, emergency descent, skid steer loader, telehandler operations, and more – supporting a broad range of construction trades and specialisations.
All training is delivered in line with industry requirements, with practical assessments and real-world preparation to help you hit the ground running.
Building and Construction Industry Growth
The WA construction industry continues to grow thanks to ongoing government infrastructure investment, a strong residential property market, and mining sector demand. From freeway extensions and METRONET projects to housing developments across Perth, the pipeline of work is steady, and so is the demand for skilled workers.
With an ageing workforce and trade shortages across Australia, it’s a great time to enter the industry and build a secure, future-proof career.
Work Opportunities in Construction
After completing your training, it’s time to look for jobs. Here are some tips to get started:
- Job Boards – Try Seek, Indeed, and Jobs WA. Use search terms like construction jobs Perth WA or jobs in building industry.
- Labour Hire Companies – Agencies such as SkillHire, Techforce, and Unite Resourcing specialise in placing certified workers on short- and long-term projects.
- Direct Employer Websites – Many builders and developers list roles directly. Try companies like Georgiou Group, Multiplex, or BGC.
- LinkedIn & Facebook Groups – Join local construction and trade job groups for immediate opportunities.
- Networking with Trainers – Equip-Safe trainers often have industry connections and may be able to help you connect with employers once you’re certified.
Start Your Construction Career Today With Equip-Safe
There’s no shortage of career opportunities in construction across WA – from labouring and logistics to high-risk roles and site supervision. Whether you're just getting started or looking to upskill, Equip-Safe’s training programs provide the essential certifications and hands-on knowledge needed to launch your construction career with confidence.
With strong industry growth, diverse job options, and government-supported training, now’s the perfect time to enter the construction industry and build a career that lasts.
