OFO No: 21904

Other names for Quantity Surveyor

• QS 
• Building Economist 
• Construction Economist 
• Electrical Specifications Writer 
• Plumbing Estimator

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – What is a Quantity Surveyor?

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Quantity Surveyor?

A Quantity Surveyor is a very important professional who tries to make sure that buildings and construction projects, like airports, hotels, theme parks, for instance, are erected within budget. They are responsible for working out all the costs with regard to materials and labour.

Quantity Surveyors work with the design teams to make practical, cost-effective decisions. Before the start of construction, a Quantity Surveyor uses the architectural plans to work out all the figures and  costs. They give the client and prospective builders an extremely detailed report as to how much the building will cost – right down to the last nut and bolt.  It is from these figures, that a builder or construction company can tender a quote.

Once a tender has been accepted, the Quantity Surveyor will assist the client with regard to payment schedules taking into account work done on site, interest rates and work to be done. They also need to keep up to date with inflation and changing prices and availability of materials.

A Quantity Surveyor can either work for themselves on smaller projects like residential homes or for a large company which will take on large projects like stadiums, shopping centres, tunnels, harbours, train stations etc.

What does a Quantity Surveyor do?

• works together with architects and construction team
• reads and understands architectural plans
• uses mathematical formula, prepares estimated figures for costings
• prepares tender documentation for construction companies
• assists client with payment schedules
• keeps up to date with inflation figures
• keeps up to date with construction material availability

Are you . . . ?

• interested in architecture and construction?
• mathematically orientated?
• accurate?
• a person who pays attention to detail?
• observant?
• methodical?
• reliable and trustworthy?
• practical?
• good at reading and writing?

How do I become a Quantity Surveyor?

You will need a qualification. 

PATH 1

• Bachelors degree in Quantity Surveying
• Followed by an Honours degree in Quantity Surveying

PATH 2

• Bachelors degree in Quantity Surveying
• Followed by an Honours degree in Quantity Surveying
• 3 years related work experience
• Register with SACQSP to become a Professional Quantity Surveyor
• Interview with professional from SACQSP
• Become Professional Quantity Surveyor – this title may NOW only be used behind your name

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• THE SOUTH AFRICAN COUNCIL FOR THE QUANTITY SURVEYING PROFESSION (SACQSP)

http://www.sacqsp.org.za/

BURSARIES: 

http://www.ceta.org.za/Projects/PolicyScheme.asp 

The Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) is committed to support tertiary education in the Construction Sector by offering bursaries to candidates/students pursuing careers in Quantity Surveying.

Graduates from both universities and universities of technology can advance to full registration as professional quantity surveyors.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

If your marks or subjects do not meet the requirements for a degree or diploma, there are other routes, which will take longer overall, but will get you where you want to be. 

FURTHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING COLLEGE (FET) 

If you feel sure early on that this is the career for you  (or if your marks and subjects are not up to the required level) it may be an idea to look at Further Education Training Colleges where you can do a vocational course from Grade 10 or 11 and obtain a:

• National Certificate (Vocational) Civil Engineering & Building Construction (3 years) or
• National Certificate (Vocational) Multi-Disciplinary Drawing Office Practice (3 years)
• Building & Civil Engineering: Foundational Course: (2 years)

The advantage of these is that you are ready for employment, as long as you pass. Next step if you pass and want to study further:

• A pass which entitles you to enter a DEGREE program will allow you to apply to a University, or

• A pass which entitles you to enter a DIPLOMA program University of Technology.

* Note: Educational institutions may change or add to their requirements and it is a good idea to check the admission information on websites regularly.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Civil Engineer or Chartered Accountant

Is becoming a Quantity Surveyor the right career choice for me?

Other names for Rigger:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip: What it’s like to be a Rigger!

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Rigger?

A Rigger specialises in rope-work which allows them to reach hard-to-get-to places without using scaffolding. They are an important, skilled member of the team.

Examples:

• high buildings and bridges
• cliffs and steep slopes
• oil rigs and gas pipelines and structures
• mines
• construction sites
• shipping and yachts
  

What kind of jobs require rigging?

• maintenance, painting and cleaning of tall buildings
• building inspections
• working on wind turbines
• high rise window cleaning
• working for signage companies erecting sign in high places
• installing safety netting on cliffs to prevent rock falls
• reparing aircraft
• rescue work etc
  

Riggers are responsible for the inspection, lubrication and maintenance of all types of lifting tackle, including cranes, derricks, driving winders, jacks, hoists and manually operated lifting equipment. They need to have a sound knowledge of scaffolding, platforms and tripods.

Rigging is a very physical job. They are continually moving around, bending, climbing and working in all kinds of positions and environments. Their job can, at times, be very dangerous, but very exciting at the same time. 

What does a Rigger do?

• works out the weight of objects to be moved or lifted
• secures the object safely before moving or lifting
• inspects and maintains lifting equipment: tackle, cranes, winders, jacks, hoists etc
• operates lifting equipment
• learns about safe use of scaffolding, platforms and other equipment

Are you … ?

• fit and healthy and brave?
• mentally stable?
• afraid of heights?  if yes, this would not be a good job for you!
• safety conscious?
• willing to do heavy and physical work?
• a team player?
• responsible?
• observant?

How do I become a Rigger?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Chemical Rigger (Limited to 30 Ton Centre Mount Crane & 5000kg load) Level 2 and 3
• Learnership – Chemical Rigger Level 4
  
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Mechanical Handling: Rigging (Manufacturing and Engineering) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

•  Learnership – Rigging Ropesman – Open – Cast Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Learnership – Mechanical Handling Rigging: Electrical Power Generation Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• Learnership – Rigging Ropesman – Surface / Underground NQF Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

Here are a few places that offer rigging courses:

• RAI: Rope Access Inspection

• GRAVITEK

• TOPROPE

• GRAVITY TRAINING

Offers a variety of SETA accredited programmes

• RIGGERS STEEPLEJACKS (Pty) LTD

• MATIMBA RIGGING & TRAINING

• AFRICA TRAINING CENTRE

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Window Cleaner … or … Stunt Person 

Is becoming an Rigger the right career choice for me?

Other names for Plasterer:

What is a Plasterer?

Plasterers are in demand!

A Plasterer is skilled at working with plaster (a paste that hardens making a strong structure).

Plasterers are needed in the construction of buildings and homes, specifically when new walls are needed.

They apply coats of plaster or stucco to walls, ceilings, floors, or partitions of buildings, using trowels, brushes, or spray guns.

Plasterers also work to refurnish existing plasterwork in need of repair.

What does a Plasterer do?

• mixes mortar
• measures the surfaces needing plaster
• applies base coats
• works in a team or individually to apply plaster
• adds decorative coverings to outside surfaces of buildings

Are you … ?

• physically fit, particularly with upper body strength?
• someone with an eye for detail?
• team player?
• able to make deadlines?
• good with hands and tools?

How do I become a Plasterer?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Construction Carpenter (Plastering) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• National Certificate (Engineering Studies) N1, N2 and N3
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH  5

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Plasterer  without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• MerSETA

http://www.merseta.org.za/Home.aspx

Approved and accredited MerSETA training companies: Type your trade choice in and click on FIND.

http://ww2.merseta.org.za/OrgIndex.asp?page=sites

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Tiler … or …  Stonemason

Is becoming a Plasterer the right career choice for me?

Other names for Glazier:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip: Day in the life of a Glazier

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Glazier?

Glaziers are responsible for selecting, cutting, installing, replacing and removing all types of glass and mirrors.

They generally work on one of several different areas:

• Residential: 
  

installing or replacing glass in windows, sky lights, shower doors, table tops etc

• Commercial interior projects:

installing large mirrors, stain glass windows or store-front windows, display cases etc

• Automotive industry:
  

installing or replacing all window, windscreens and mirrors etc

What does a Glazier do?

• reads architectural plans, if working on a building site
• measures, marks or outlines patterns on glass
• cuts glass using a glasscutter
• breaks off extra glass by hand or with notched tool
• fastens glass panes into wood sash frames with glazier’s points
• spreads and smooths putty around edge of panes with knife to seal joints
• installs mirrors or structural glass on walls, ceilings or tables
• bolts metal hinges, handles, locks and other hardware to prefabricated glass doors
• sets glass doors into frame and fitting hinges
• installs metal window and door frames into which glass panels are to be fitted
• applies plastic adhesive film to glass or spray glass with tinting solution to prevent light glare
• installs stained glass windows
• installs metal-framed glass enclosures for showers

Are you … ?

• interested in building and construction?
• accurate?
• a person with a good head for heights?
• safety conscious?
• good with your hands?
• practical?
• methodical?

How do I become a Glazier?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Chemical Operations (Glass Container Former) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Glazier  without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• SGCC: Safety Glazing Certification Council

http://www.sgcc.org/

• SAGGA: South African Glass and Glazing Association

http://www.sagga.co.za/consumers.html

• AAAMSA:  Association of Architectural Aluminium Manufacturers of South Africa.

http://www.aaamsa.co.za/members.html

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Glass Blower … or … Welder

Is becoming a Glazier the right career choice for me?

Other names for a Painter:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – All about a Painter’s career

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Painter?

A Painter is a person who prepares and paints buildings, walls, ceilings, woodwork, railings, stairwells and banisters etc. 

They work on both residential and a well as commercial projects, both inside and outside of the buildings.

This can be a part-time job or a full-time or an entrepreneurial business enterprise.

Some Painters may take courses to learn special textural painting techniques which may get them specialised work with interior designers and architects who may stipulate a painting technique needed for a particular wall etc. 

The more skills you have, the more likely you will be able to get work.

What does a Painter do?

• meets with clients or project managers to discuss job at hand
• determines exactly what type of primer and paint is suitable for each job
  
• provides a written quotation
• purchases the correct quantity of paint in the right colours
• removes old wallpaper or paint
• cleans and prepares the surface to be painted
• masks areas that are not going to be painted
• lays down ground sheets so that paint does not fall floor/carpet etc
• applies the paint with a roller, brushes and/or sponges etc
• makes sure paint does not go on areas that should not be painted
• cleans up afterwards

Are you … ?

• interested in construction and the building trade?
• a person with a steady hand?
• a person with upper body strength?
• a person with absolutely no fear of heights?
• good with colour?
• a neat and accurate worker?
• a person who takes pride in their work?
• reliable?

How do I become a Painter?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Construction Painter – Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnership – Construction (Painter) – NQF 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH   5

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Painter without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• OLIFANTSFONTEIN BUILDING TRAINING

Offers Basic, Intermediate and Advanced training in painting.

• EASTCAPE TRAINING CENTRE

Offers courses in Painting & Decorating

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Tiler (Wall & Floor) … or … Fine Artist

Is becoming a Painting the right career choice for me?

Other names for Bricklayer: 

• Arch Builder
• Blocklayer
• Bricklayer (Refractory And/Or Chemical)
• Bricklayer (Refractory)
• Bricklayer and Plasterer
• Bricklaying Contractor
• Bricklaying Pointer
• Bricklaying Stopper
• Chimney Builder
• Chimney Repairman
• Kiln Builder
• Retort Setter (Bricklaying)
• Tuckpointer

What is a Bricklayer?

Bricklayers are trades people, who work either on their own or as part of a construction team. It’s one of the oldest jobs in the construction industry.

Bricklayers place bricks or blocks on top of each other to create a wall – ‘glueing’ them together with cement (mortar).  They make sure their work is straight, level and plumb.

They are responsible for building the outer and inner walls of buildings. They can repair walls, make partitions, build fireplaces and other brick structures etc. Experienced Bricklayers can also build arches, steps and other more complicated constructions. 

Before starting, a Bricklayer must first read the building plans and work out how he/she will plan the bricklaying schedule. They will then mix mortar (cement) and begin working.

Bricklayers must know which bricks are available and the correct ratios for cement mixtures, depending on the job. They will also need to know how to re-enforce structures with metalwork.

What does a Bricklayer do?

• meets with the builder and or project manager to discuss the bricklaying requirements
• reads and follows building plans
• builds the necessary walls, arches, etc
• keeps quality checking as work progresses
• attends meetings
• packs and stacks bricks
• mixes the right ratios of mortar

Are you … ?

• interested in the building industry?
• good with your hands?
• practical?
• able to read and understand building plans?
• able to measure?
• reliable?
• a team player?
• 16 years or older?
• healthy and strong?
• a person who enjoys doing accurate work?

How do I become a Bricklayer?

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnerships: Construction Mason (Facebrick Laying) NQF Level, 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• Learnerships: Construction Mason (Paving) NQF Level, 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate (Engineering Studies) N1, N2 and N3
• CLICK HERE for list of institutions
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
  
• If you have already been working a long time as a Bricklayer without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• CETA: CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION & TRAINING AUTHORITY

http://www.ceta.org.za/

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Glazier … or … Rigger

Is becoming a Bricklayer the right career choice for me?

Other names for Roofer:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – So you want to become a Roofer?

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Roofer?

A Roofer is a person who specialises in the construction of a roof. Their job is to build the rafters, beams and trusses which will form the skeleton for the roof. Roofers also specialise in waterproofing, guttering and flashing.

A Roofer will need to have a good knowledge of the materials used and be able to choose the right ones specific for each roof.

What does  Roofer do?

• reads building plans
• meets with the project manager/construction manager
• sets out and construction of various trusses
• erects roofs
• clads the structures
• fits gutters and downpipes
• works closely with other construction workers like carpenters, bricklayers etc

Are you … ?

• interested in construction?
• afraid of heights?  If YES, this is not a good career choice for you!
• a person with good balance?
• a team player?
• 16 years or older?
• physically strong?
• practical?
• a person with good eye-hand co-ordination?
• able to work on scaffolding?
• able to read and understand building plans?
• responsible?

How do I become a Roofer? 

PATH 1

• Often employers train their own staff to their set of requirements. 

PATH 2

• FET / TVET – Training Certificate NQF Level 2 or Grade 10
• Learnership – Construction (Carpenter NCCA) NQF Level 3

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• NORTHLINK COLLEGE 

Offers a variety of short courses.  These courses can range from 1 Day – to 12 weeks and is determined by the schedule of the employer/client.  The completion of these courses with the appropriate prescribed minimum work experience enables a trainee to be trade tested and certificated by the CETA.

• TRAIN THE NATION

Offers a course:  Building Skills: Carpentry – Finishing/Roofing

• INTERNATIONAL TRUSS SYSTEMS

Offers Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Roofing courses

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Carpenter … or … Furniture Designer

Is becoming a Roofer the right career choice for me?

Other names for Carpenter: 

• Bridge / Construction / Wharf Carpenter 
• Carpenter Contractor 
• Carpenter Maintenance 
• Fixing Carpenter 
• Formwork Carpenter 
• Mine Carpenter Rough Carpentry 
• Prop and Scenery Maker 
• Shutterhand
  

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Watch Carpenters at Work

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Carpenter?

Carpenters are in demand!

A Carpenter is a skilled craftsperson who works with wood.  A Carpenter makes, fixes and installs furniture and other wooden objects.  Experienced Carpenters can also design items and make custom-designed furniture. 

Some Carpenters work on building sites – hanging doors, making specialised window frames and pergolas, cupboards, wall unites etc.  This kind of work is manual labour.  Some Carpenters work indoors and outdoors.

Carpentry work can be divided into two categories:

• rough carpentry
• finished carpentry

Carpentry is a skill is gained through experience and study of wood work.

What does a Carpenter do?

• liaises with clients or builders with regard to their requirements
• quotes and sources materials
• makes cupboards, wall units, roof trusses, pergolas, special window frames and doors etc
• remodels
• makes furniture
• manages staff
  
• checks quality control

Are you … ?

• passionate about wood and wooden items?
• good with your hands?
• creative?
• practical?
• able to read and write?
• able to do standard grade mathematics?
• analytical?
• knowledgeable of equipment, materials and building techniques?
• able to understand verbal and written instructions?
• able to organize assigned tasks for yourself and or a team?
• happy and comfortable with doing heavy labour?

How do I become a Carpenter?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Construction Carpenter (Manufacturing Products from Wood) Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• National Certificate (Engineering Studies) N1, N2 and N3
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Carpenter without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Furniture Polisher, Set Designer … or … Saw Operator

Is becoming a Carpenter the right career choice for me?

Other names for Plumber:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Plumber Job

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Plumber?

• Plumbers are always needed, even in a recession!

A Plumber is a tradesperson who specializes in installing and maintaining systems used for drinking water, sewage, drainage, heating, air-conditioning and industrial process plant piping.

What does a Plumber do?

• meets clients and project managers to determine the requirements or problems
• assesses material and equipment needed
• prepares and issues quotations
• reads architectural blueprints to determine work details and procedures
• does complex calculations and plans for special or very large jobs
• installs pipes, fittings, valves
• installs appliances such as dishwashers and water heaters and fixtures such as sinks and toilets
• uses pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks and fixing them
• keeps records of assignments and produces detailed work reports

Are you … ?

• interested in the building industry?
• practical?
• good with your hands?
• alert?
• conscientious and accurate?
• healthy?
• strong and fit?
• willing to sometimes work in cramped spaces like in a roof?

How do I become a Plumber?

You can choose one of these career pathways:

PATH 1

• Apprenticeship (training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan)
• Trade Test

PATH 2

• Learnership – Plumbing Level 2, 3 and 4
• Trade Test

PATH 3

• National Certificate (Plumbing) N1, N2 and N3
• Trade Test

PATH 4

• National Certificate (Engineering Studies) N1, N2 and N3
• Workplace experience
• Trade Test

PATH 5

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 6

• Artisan Internship
• Trade Test

PATH 7

• RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
• If you have already been working a long time as a Plumber without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
• Trade Test

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

The Plumbing COC (Certificate of Compliance) is issued by Licensed Plumbers to certify that their plumbing work complies with all regulatory installation requirements.  They will be held responsible for their plumbing work and be held accountable.  The COC is available in a paper format and now in an electronic format as well.

• PIRB: Plumbing Industry Registration Board

http://www.pirb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=117&Itemid=100

Here are a few accredited examples:

• SA PLUMBING TRADE SCHOOL

Offers both Basic and Advanced courses in Plumbing.

• EASTCAPE TRAINING CENTRE

Offers apprenticeships in Plumbing.

• NORTHLINK COLLEGE

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Electrician … or … 2nd Engineering Officer

Is becoming a Plumber the right career choice for me?

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – WorldSkills Competition Australia – Joinery & Shopfitting

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is a Shopfitter?

Shopfitting is the trade of designing and fitting out retail and service shops and stores with equipment, fixtures and fittings. These could vary from jewellery stores, to supermarkets, to restaurants, to gyms, hotels etc. 

This particular job is very exciting because each project is completely different to the next.

Shopfitters have a passion for design as well as the skills to make the interiors. 

Things that they would make, for example, include: display cabinets, shelves, signage, interior cubicles, etc. 

They may also be skilled in decoration including hanging mirrors and art pieces, carving banisters, laying mosaics and other interesting finishes. 

Shopfitters usually work in a team, where each individual specialises in their own field for example: design, carpentry, welding, glazing, signage, lighting & electrical etc.

What does a Shopfitter do?

• meets with and advise clients on design
• prepares quotations
• designs interiors of shops, restaurants, supermarkets etc
• reads and understands architects specifications
• measures and make cabinets, showcases, wall units, counters and work stations etc
• orders the required quantities and types of material
• constructs and erects internal walls and ceiling framing etc
• manufactures and installs carpentry components
• applies paint and other finishes
• cuts and installs glass
• checks on quality
  
• keeps up to date with new materials and finishes (like carpets, tiles, ceiling finishes etc)
• performs minor repairs to fittings

Are you . . . ?

• interested in interiors and architecture?
• good at mathematics?
• detail orientated?
• reliable?
• able to follow plans and specifications?
• deadline orientated?
• able to work within a budget?
• willing to work overtime?
• able to think and ‘see’ in 3D?
• creative?

How do I become a Shopfitter?

Depending on your speciality, you could enter the exciting world of Shopfitting in many different ways.

You could be an artisan who is skilled and experienced in electrical, metalwork (welding), woodwork (carpentry), glazing, tiling etc. See under these job titles, on our website, for more study details.

You could study a completely different route and enter this field by becoming an Interior Designer or Architectural Draughter. Look under these 2 job descriptions on our website for more study options.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• EASTCAPE TRAINING CENTRE

Offers a Shopfitting course and apprenticeships 

http://www.etc.org.za

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Carpenter … or … Set Designer

Is becoming a Shopfitter the right career choice for me?