Construction recruiters oversee the hiring process of all construction field and office positions. It is their responsibility to ensure that positions are filled in a timely manner and to match the appropriate candidate with the vacant position. A construction recruiter needs to have a good understanding of the range of construction jobs, be able to prioritize a particular client's needs and goals, and have the ability to quickly find and bring in qualified candidates.
Selecting the appropriate personnel is a critical element of a company's success. Construction is often a very time-sensitive industry, and projects that are missing key personal can overrun, costing a company money and damaging its reputation. Good construction recruiters should build and maintain a network of well-qualified candidates so when there is a need, a position can be filled quickly.
Like any other human resource professional, a construction recruiter is required to maintain a high-level of confidentiality. Employees in this role often have access to candidates' personnel information. The information obtained in the recruitment, screening, and selection of candidates must be guarded.
Construction recruiters must comply with all regional and national laws, as well as the policies of the company he or she is working for. In many cases, a recruiter works for a third-party company, and may be involved in the hiring process for several different clients; the needs and requirements of each individual client must be taken into account to match the right applicant with the right job. There are fees associated with accessing outside recruiters, however, so some companies work to reduce recruitment costs by keeping their efforts in-house. Some recruiters may also be responsible for developing sourcing strategies to will expand a company's visibility and attract candidates in the construction industry.
In addition to direct hiring and recruitment responsibilities, construction recruiters are often required to attending regular company staff meetings to stay abreast of the company's current situation and future plans. Construction recruiters may also meet with human resource management regularly to discuss the company's hiring needs. Recruiters must have the ability to respond appropriately to management direction. They should also be resourceful and be able to create solutions and introduce ideas that can improve a company's recruitment functions.
Construction recruiters are required to be perceptive and have the ability to relate to individuals at all levels. After interviewing candidates, construction recruiters must follow-up by checking references; scheduling drug tests, running background checks, and performing other screening functions may also be required. Construction recruiters often have to juggle many responsibilities and must have effective time management skills.
The role may also require preparation of reports, so proficiency in office software programs is helpful. Many construction recruiters have strong construction industry experience, which is often drawn upon when candidates are engaged in the screening process. Although a degree may not be required for the job, courses in human resource management can help prepare individuals for the career.
