The occupation of a Leading Hand in Queensland’s civil construction industry plays a pivotal role in managing and supervising construction sites. A Leading Hand acts as the critical link between the workforce and management, ensuring that the construction tasks are carried out efficiently, safely, and to the required quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Team Supervision: Oversee the daily activities of construction workers, ensuring that tasks are completed on schedule and to the required standards. They organise work schedules, delegate tasks, and monitor performance.
  • Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact between the construction site and higher management. They relay instructions from project managers to the team and provide feedback and progress updates from the site to management.
  • Safety Management: Enforce safety protocols on the construction site, ensuring that all workers adhere to safety regulations. They conduct safety briefings and are often responsible for addressing any safety concerns or incidents.
  • Quality Control: Monitor the quality of work performed on-site to ensure it meets project specifications and industry standards. They may also be involved in inspecting materials and workmanship.
  • Training and Mentoring: Provide on-the-job training and support to less experienced workers. Leading Hands play a crucial role in skills development and the professional growth of their team members.

Skills and Qualifications:

  • Leadership and People Management: Strong leadership skills are crucial, as Leading Hands must motivate and manage diverse teams.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to quickly identify and resolve issues that arise during construction.
  • Technical Knowledge: A thorough understanding of construction techniques, tools, and machinery relevant to their specific projects.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are necessary for effective coordination and reporting.
  • Safety Training: Extensive knowledge of occupational health and safety standards, often backed by certifications such as a White Card.

Working Conditions:

Leading Hands typically work full-time on construction sites, which can involve early starts, late finishes, and weekend work to meet project deadlines. The job is physically demanding and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Career Path:

Many Leading Hands start their careers in entry-level positions and progress through gaining experience and undertaking additional training. This role can be a stepping stone to more senior roles such as site supervisor, project manager, or construction manager.

Overall, a Leading Hand in Queensland’s civil construction sector is a challenging but rewarding role, offering opportunities for leadership within dynamic and diverse project environments. This position not only requires technical proficiency but also strong interpersonal and management skills.

Salary:

The salary range for a Leading Hand in Queensland’s civil construction industry generally reflects their level of responsibility and the skills required to manage and supervise construction projects and teams. Entry-level Leading Hands can expect to start with an annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000.

With experience, a proven track record of successful project delivery, and enhanced leadership abilities, the salary can increase significantly. Experienced Leading Hands can earn between $80,000 and $140,000 per year. Those who demonstrate exceptional skills in managing large teams and complex projects, particularly in high-demand areas or for large companies, may see their earnings at the upper end of this range or even higher.

These figures are indicative and can vary based on the specific employer, the complexity and size of the projects undertaken, and the geographic location within Queensland. Salaries are also influenced by the current economic climate and demand within the construction industry, which can affect project availability and employment stability.