A clerk of works makes sure that construction work is carried out to agreed quality standards, specifications and schedules, and that health and safety procedures are being followed. They inspect work on behalf of a client or employer to make sure building projects meet the required standards.
They are also known as site inspectors.
The Work
You could be:
reading plans and written instructions and using them as a reference when inspecting work
inspecting construction work to make sure it follows the plans, specifications, schedule and legal requirements, and is completed to a high standard
monitoring contractors' work and checking that health and safety procedures are being followed
taking measurements and samples to make sure work and materials meet specifications and quality standards
reporting any concerns or defects and recommending solutions
keeping records and writing reports on the progress of work, workforce levels and site visits
liaising with contractors, engineers, architects and project managers
specialising in a particular area such as civil engineering, building maintenance or electrical installations
overseeing major repairs, improvements or maintenance work on buildings.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
where you work
the size of the company or organisation you work for
the demand for the job.
Starting salaries for clerks of works are usually around £28,000 to £35,000 a year. With experience, earnings can rise to around £45,000 to £55,000 a year. Senior clerks of works may earn £60,000 a year or more.
Some jobs are offered on a contract basis for a set period of time and may pay an hourly or daily rate instead of an annual salary.
Conditions
You would usually work 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday.
You may sometimes need to work evenings or weekends to meet project deadlines.
You could be based in a temporary office on a construction site or at your employer's office. You would spend a lot of your time visiting sites and working outdoors in all weather conditions.
You might travel to different construction sites as part of your job.
You may need to climb ladders or scaffolding and visit difficult-to-access areas to inspect work.
You would wear protective clothing and safety equipment on site, such as a hard hat, high-visibility clothing and safety boots.
There is no set route into this job. Clerks of works usually have several years of experience in the construction industry, so it is not typically a job entered straight from school.
Many clerks of works start their careers in construction trades or technician roles before moving into inspection and supervisory work. An apprenticeship with a construction company can be a good way to begin a career in the industry.
You usually need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to work on construction sites.
You need a good understanding of health and safety procedures. Some employers may ask for a health and safety qualification.
Relevant qualifications include the SVQ in Construction Site Supervision (Construction): Building and Civil Engineering at (SCQF Level 7), an HNC (SCQF Level 7) or HND (SCQF Level 8) in a construction-related subject. Some employers require a relevant degree (SCQF Levels 9-10).
A driving licence is often preferred and may be required for jobs involving travel between sites.
Most jobs are with larger organisations such as local authorities, housing associations, government departments, NHS boards, universities, airports and industrial companies.
a good knowledge of the construction industry and building regulations
broad technical knowledge
problem solving skills
confidence and assertiveness
diplomacy and the ability to remain calm under pressure
good communication, persuasion and negotiating skills
the ability to organise your workload and meet deadlines.
Training
Training is mainly on the job.
While working, you may study for qualifications such as the SVQ in Construction Site Supervision (Construction): Building and Civil Engineering (SCQF Level 7).
You may take health and safety training such as the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) run by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Some employers may support you to gain health and safety qualifications such as the NEBOSH National Certificate in Construction Health and Safety.
Getting On
You would be expected to keep up to date with developments in the construction industry, building regulations and health and safety legislation through continuing professional development (CPD).
There may be limited opportunities for promotion within the role. However, you could work on larger or more complex construction projects as you gain experience.
Some clerks of works move into site management, project management or other senior management roles within the construction industry.
You may have opportunities to work elsewhere in the UK or overseas on construction projects.
2026
