Careers at JJ Rhatigan – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What subjects do I need to take to consider a role in engineering or construction? 

A: For a career in engineering or construction, it is essential to focus on subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Technical Drawing during your secondary education. In addition, courses in Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Engineering, Technology, or Construction Studies are advantageous. At third-level education, degrees in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture will provide you with a solid foundation for various roles in this industry. 

Q: What kind of roles can I get into in the construction industry? 

A: The construction industry offers a diverse range of roles for individuals with different skills and interests. These include both site-based (operations) and office-based (commercial) roles. Some of the key roles are: 

Operations (Site-Based Roles): 

• Site Engineer: Overseeing construction activities, ensuring projects are executed as per plans. 

• Project Manager: Coordinating various teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. 

• Health & Safety Officer: Ensuring the safety of workers and compliance with regulations. 

Commercial (Office-Based Roles): 

• Quantity Surveyor/Estimator: Managing project costs and ensuring financial efficiency. 

At JJ Rhatigan, you’ll find opportunities in all these areas, and we encourage employees to explore different career paths across both operations and commercial roles. 

Q: How does the Apprenticeship programme with JJR work? 

A: We work in conjunction with Atlantic Technological University to help deliver the Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering Apprenticeship (Level 7). This 3-year apprenticeship is a great opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on work experience whilst learning in a formal education environment. The apprenticeship provides excellent prospects for individuals who would like to take a varied approach in their learning within the construction industry. It’s a great opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining both formal and practical experience. 

Q: How many years is the graduate programme at JJ Rhatigan? 

A: The graduate programme at JJ Rhatigan spans 1.5 years. During this time, graduates gain hands-on experience across various aspects of the construction process and company operations with the opportunity for departmental rotations. Our Graduate Programme offers a holistic learning experience that goes beyond the typical entry-level training and is designed to help individuals to grow personally and professionally. 

Q: What do the rotations in the graduate programme entail? 

A: The graduate programme at JJ Rhatigan includes rotations and they are designed to gain exposure to key departments across our business, learn new skills and build rapport with experienced members of staff. 

These may include: 

• Site Operations 

• Site Technical 

• Commercials 

• Design 

• Accounts 

• Estimating 

• Purchasing 

• Health & Safety 

• BID 

These rotations ensure that graduates are exposed to various disciplines, helping them decide which area best suits their career aspirations. 

Q: What kind of software tools/programmes do engineers use day to day? 

A: Engineers in the construction industry use a variety of software tools to perform their tasks efficiently. At JJ Rhatigan, some of the common programmes include: 

• AutoCAD and Revit for design and drafting. 

• BIM (Building Information Modelling) software for project planning and management. 

• MS Excel and other Microsoft Office tools for data analysis, reporting, and project management. 

These programmes are essential for collaboration, design, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget. 

For further details or specific inquiries, feel free to contact us at: graduate@jjrhatigan.com. We look forward to helping you kickstart your career in the exciting world of construction!