As we reach 2024, UK’s top construction companies are playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s built environment. In 2023, the UK construction industry was valued at approximately $386 billion, providing employment to nearly 2.8 million people.
With countless opportunities available, choosing the right company to work for can be daunting. This blog post will guide you through the best construction companies to work for UK, their unique company cultures, employee benefits, and career growth opportunities. Get ready to discover your dream workplace in the construction industry.
Key Takeaways
- As of 2024, the UK construction industry is robust, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and providing extensive employment opportunities.
- Companies like Balfour Beatty, Kier Group, Amey, Morgan Sindall, Wates Group, and Laing O’Rourke stand out for their advanced projects, strong company cultures, and commitment to sustainability and community.
- They provide competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements and overall employee benefits including health insurance and pension plans, and extensive career growth opportunities.
- Many of these companies prioritise sustainability initiatives, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting circular economies, and investing in renewable energy sources.
- Ample opportunities are available for career advancement. Internal company programs support professional development, mentorship, and upskilling across various disciplines within the construction sector.
Best Workplaces in the UK Construction Industry
The UK construction industry is currently ranked sixth in the world, contributing a substantial £110 billion to the country’s GDP. The success of top construction companies lies in their hard work, sophisticated design processes, strategic marketing, and talented staff teams. With the government dedicating considerable resources to infrastructure growth, the industry’s upward trajectory is set to continue in the foreseeable future.
Some of the top construction companies in the UK have been involved in notable projects, such as the restoration of St Pancras Chambers by Galliford Try, Crossrail C310 by Keller Group, and the Aldwych Quarter in London by ISG plc. These companies not only deliver exceptional projects, but they also focus on creating a supportive and engaging work environment for their diverse workforce.
Company Culture
A thriving company culture is essential for any successful construction company. Top UK construction companies like Hilti Group and Willmott Dixon have built their cultures on the foundations of integrity, courage, teamwork, and dedication.
These strong company cultures foster collaboration, innovation, and respect, ensuring employees feel valued and motivated to contribute to the success of the company and the industry as a whole.
Employee Benefits
In addition to a strong company culture, top UK construction companies recognise the importance of offering competitive employee benefits. These companies provide attractive salaries, flexible working hours, and additional perks such as health insurance and pension plans.
Moreover, companies like Willmott Dixon are committed to social value by creating employment opportunities and supporting local businesses, as well as establishing a Foundation to support charitable causes and community projects. These benefits help attract and retain top talent, ensuring the ongoing success of the UK construction industry.
Career Growth Opportunities
Career growth opportunities are essential for retaining a motivated and skilled workforce. Leading UK construction companies offer a range of career growth options, including training and development programs, mentorship opportunities, and career progression paths.
Keller plc provides a range of career paths for prospective employees to explore. They are encouraged to visit their local recruitment offices to find out more information. They also offer a global Construction Project Manager Recruitment Academy for Project Managers. These opportunities allow employees to develop their skills and progress in their careers, maintaining a strong and skilled workforce within the UK construction industry.
Let’s explore some of the UK’s top construction companies and discover what sets them apart as industry leaders.
Balfour Beatty: Leading International Infrastructure Group
- Balfour Beatty, founded in 1909 is now a leading international infrastructure group, and employs 26,000 people globally across the UK, US, and Hong Kong.
- and stands out with a turnover of £8.59 billion.
- Some of their notable projects include the Thames Tideway Tunnel, Heathrow Airport Terminal 2 Departure Lounges, and London Power Tunnels.
- Balfour Beatty focuses on delivering innovative and efficient infrastructure solutions and offers employee development programs, ensuring a well-rounded experience for its employees.
- Balfour Beatty plays a key role in building infrastructure that boosts national economies and enhances communities globally.
Advantages of a Career at Balfour Beatty
- Balfour invests in its employees’ continuous learning and growth through its Commercial Development Programme. This provides them essential knowledge, skills, and ongoing development.
- Employees handle the challenges of modern construction projects with thorough and continuous training.
- Balfour commits to innovative and efficient infrastructure, setting itself apart from competitors.
- They dedicate themselves to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a circular economy, designing projects to be both cost-effective and sustainable.
Kier Group: Diverse Opportunities in Construction
Kier Group is a leading construction and infrastructure provider in the UK. It boasts a turnover of £3.48 billion and employs 19,000 people. Kier Group puts a strong focus on sustainability and employee support and have been involved in notable projects such as Hinkley Point C, Deephams Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the Luton DART.
Advantages of a Career at Kier Group
- Health and wellbeing support from Peppy is available to all Kier Group employees.
- Emphasis on physical and mental health and well-being creates a nurturing and productive work environment.
- Over 500 mental health first aiders are available within the company.
- An employee assistance program provides additional support. Focus on employee support helps create a space where employees can thrive.
- Kier Group’s policy “Responsible Business, Positive Outcomes” highlights their dedication to sustainability. This ensures that projects positively impact the environment and local communities.
- Investments in renewable energy sources are a priority.
- The company is committed to reducing energy consumption and waste.
Amey: Trusted Infrastructure Support Services Provider
Amey, a trusted infrastructure support services provider, has a long history dating back to the 1920s. The company leads the UK construction industry, operating across various sectors. Some of their key services include public buildings, justice, defense, transport infrastructure, highways, rail, technology, utilities, engineering, environmental, and waste services. Their most notable recent project is ensuring a cleaner Thames. Amey plays the leading role in upgrading Bazalgette’s Victorian sewage system, for London and the South-East.
Advantages of a Career at Amey
- Amey offers professional development initiatives help with employees’ career growth.
- The company has a Multicultural Leadership Development Programme, an 18-month program focused on improving leadership skills and promoting diversity.
- Amey has achieved 38% diversity rate among 14,000 employees.
- Acknowledging the importance of flexibility and support for individuals re-entering the workforce after focusing on family, Amey introduced a dedicated employment program for returners.
- Their partnership with Scope supports individuals with accessibility needs.
- Certain programs are aimed at reintegrating former armed forces personnel and ex-offenders.
Morgan Sindall: Expertise in Affordable Housing and Urban Regeneration
Morgan Sindall is a UK-based construction and regeneration group. It focuses on affordable housing, urban regeneration, and infrastructure, with a turnover of £3.03 billion in 2020.
Most recently, Morgan Sindall secured a £60m contract to upgrade six hospitals in Essex. This example highlights the company’s capability in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. The company’s financial strength is a testament to its commitment to delivering value to its customers and stakeholders. Morgan Sindall’s strong balance sheet and secure order book provide a platform for future growth.
Advantages of a Career at Morgan Sindall
- Morgan Sindall offers diverse career paths in engineering, human resources, commercial, IT, business development, safety, health, environment, quality, communications, procurement, and finance among others.
- The company encourages discussions on flexible working arrangements to accommodate individual needs to effectively balance work and personal life.
- All employees receive life insurance coverage. They also offer financial support services through its Employee Assistance Programme, including digital GP services, mental health support, and financial advice.
- Morgan Sindall provides extensive family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, shared parental, adoption, carers, emergency care, and bereavement leave.
- The company supports employees’ professional growth by reimbursing memberships and chartership fees for organizations like CIOB or RICS.
Wates Group: A Community-Focused Construction Company
Wates Group, a UK-based construction and property services company, has diversified business operations and focuses on sustainability and community engagement. With a long history dating back to 1897, Wates Group has implemented a community investment program to provide financial and practical support to local communities.
The program has seen Wates Group invest in local projects, such as refurbishing community centres, providing educational resources, and creating employment opportunities. This has enabled Wates Group to build strong relationships with local communities and demonstrate their commitment.
Advantages of a Career at Wates Group
- Wates Group has been named one of The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality in 2023, emphasizing inclusivity and fairness in the workplace.
- The company actively welcomes applications from candidates with disabilities, promoting a workforce of diversity and inclusivity.
- Competitive salaries and clear career paths are offered for undergraduates, graduates, school and college leavers, and trade professionals. This ensures advancement opportunities at all career stages.
- Wates Group offers a great selection of opportunities for training, development, and upskilling. These programs are designed to help employees reach the next level in their careers, whether they are starting out or looking to move into more senior roles.
Laing O’Rourke: Building Major Properties and Infrastructure Projects
Laing O’Rourke, a privately owned UK-based construction business, operates internationally and has delivered notable projects such as London Heathrow Terminal 5, The Leadenhall Building, and Ascot Racecourse.
With a focus on employee training and development, innovation and technology, Laing O’Rourke positions itself as a top choice for professionals seeking to work on major properties and infrastructure projects.
Advantages of a Career at Laing O’Rouke
- Opportunities at Laing O-Rourke span various disciplines including civil engineering and health, safety, and environment roles.
- The company is committed to education and skills development. This includes professional apprenticeships, summer and industrial placements, and trade and technical apprenticeships.
- Laing O’Rourke contributes to societal development through projects like building new schools that accommodate thousands of children. Employees can engage in meaningful work with lasting impacts on communities.
- Whether starting as a graduate, an experienced professional, or new to the industry, Laing O’Rourke provides a supportive environment for achieving career goals.
- Laing O’Rourke excels in engineering innovations and tackles challenging, world-class construction projects. Employees can benefit from unique learning opportunities and contribute to cutting-edge projects in a dynamic and innovative environment.
Conclusion
In summary, the UK construction industry offers diverse opportunities for professionals seeking to work with top companies. These companies prioritise company culture, employee benefits, career growth opportunities, innovation, and sustainability. Whether it’s Balfour Beatty’s focus on innovative infrastructure, Kier Group’s dedication to sustainability, Amey’s commitment to digital transformation, Morgan Sindall’s emphasis on financial stability, Wates Group’s community investment program, or Laing O’Rourke’s dedication to employee training and innovation, each company offers unique opportunities for professionals to thrive and grow in the construction industry.
As you navigate your way through the construction industry job market in the UK, take the time to explore these top companies. With the right company and a strong commitment to your personal and professional growth, you can contribute to the ongoing success and development of the UK’s built environment, shaping the future of the country and improving the lives of its citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which construction company is best for work?
Determining the “best” construction company to work for in the UK depends on individual career goals, values, and interests. However, UK Construction Blog has identified the top 6 each with their own unique benefits. Therefore, it is safe to conclude that any of these companies would be the best option for work.
What is the fastest-growing construction company in the UK?
Buckingham Group is the fastest-growing construction company in the UK. Their turnover increased significantly from £585m to “nudging” £700m in 2021.
Buckingham has been one of the major contractors with the highest growth rate in recent years.
What construction company makes the most money?
The construction company that makes the most money in the UK, based on the latest available data, is Balfour Beatty. With an operating income of £175 million in 2023, Balfour Beatty stands out as a leader in the UK construction industry.
Which is the highest-paying role in the UK construction industry?
Senior, Chartered, or Master Civil Engineer: Starting from around £20,000, these professionals can earn up to £80,000. Civil engineers play a crucial role in designing and managing large construction projects, including bridges, transport links, and infrastructure.
How to get jobs in construction?
If you’re looking to break into the construction industry, having a professional CV and honing your job search skills are key. Applying for apprenticeships can be an effective way to get your foot in the door, while also developing valuable industry knowledge.
Make sure to practice your interview skills in order to stand out from other applicants.
