Young People
What is the roofing sector, and what can it offer?
The roofing industry is a multi-billion pound sector within the wider construction industry. Due to increased demands and growth across the industry, careers in roofing are plentiful, and employers are keen to take on board new talent to protect the future of roofing.
When it comes to careers, the roofing sector has a broad range of opportunities that suit lots of different people, whether you want to be part of roofing projects on site, working with material suppliers or building a career in a support function as part of a larger employer.
The construction industry will continue to evolve with technology, meaning there will always be an opportunity to upskill and develop yourself in the roofing sector. We have witnessed a surge in demand for skilled and competent roofing contractors, and the industry is ready to welcome those ready and willing to get started.
What does the industry offer for young people?
NFRC are huge supporters of young people in roofing. As a young person in roofing, you can look forward to industry wide recognition for your skills and talents. We recognise, acknowledge, and celebrate the talent of those pursuing a roofing career.
There are a number of awards dedicated to young roofers, such as the NFRC UK Roofing Awards, which includes a category for Young Roofer of the Year. Winning this award could even lead to a place in the IFD World Championships, which is considered one of the highest accolades to achieve. You could also enter skills challenges and events, such as SkillBuild. With competitions and awards such as these, you'll get the chance to enjoy having fun alongside your learning.
What careers are there in roofing?
There are many entry routes into the roofing sector. Below are some examples of what is available.
Here are some example of apprentice job titles:
Apprentice Roofing Operative
Apprentice Roofer
Business Support Apprentice (Working in finance, HR, administrative support, customer services, or sales departments
Apprentice Project Controls Technician
Apprentice Estimator
Apprentice Site Supervisor
Apprentice Assistant Site Manager
Apprentice Project Manager
Here are some examples of trainee job titles:
Trainee Roofing operative
Trainee Roofer
Trainee Estimator
Roofer's Mate
Trainee Supervisor
Trainee Manager
Here are some examples of graduate schemes in roofing:
Graduate estimator
Graduate manager
Assistant site manager
Finding a job in the roofing sector
When you're ready to get started, here's what you will need:
Set up a free account that you only use for job searching. Remember to use something professional so it creates the right image to employers—your full name and perhaps some numbers is usually a safe choice. Using a separate email account for your job search means you avoid a clogged inbox and makes sure you’ll always be able to see when you get new job alerts, updates on your job applications and most importantly, invitations to interviews!
This is a simple tracker that helps you to keep track of what jobs you have applied for, when the closing date for applications is and who the employer is. You can use this tracker to log other information too, like research you’ve done about the company, the name (when available) of the recruitment contact at the employer (sometimes called the hiring manager) and contact details for the employer so you can get in touch with them to ask how your application is progressing.
Roofing Career Job Profiles
Roofing specialisms
Roofing is a diverse industry with lots of different specialisms to consider. If you are looking for a trade-based career, it is useful to research the different types of roofing specialisms so that you can choose what type of jobs to apply for and use your knowledge during the employer interview. Below are the main routes you can look into as a starting point for your job research.
Roof slating and tiling is a common roofing discipline found on roofs with a slope or pitch. They are known for their durability and regarded for their aesthetic appeal, and ability to shed water effectively.
Reinforced bitumen membranes (RBMs) are a type of roofing material that combines bitumen with reinforcement layers, such as polyester or fiberglass, to enhance durability, flexibility, and waterproofing capabilities. These membranes are typically used on roofs that require a high level of water resistance and durability, particularly in flat or low-slope applications.
Waterproofing membranes can be installed on several types of roofs. Their purpose is to prevent water infiltration and protect the building structure. These membranes are essential in ensuring that roofs are watertight, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall or where the roof design could otherwise allow water to penetrate.
Single-ply roofing is a popular roofing system commonly used on flat or low-slope roofs, and is commonly used in commercial and industrial buildings. It provides a durable, waterproof barrier for the roof through combining a single, flexible membrane made from synthetic materials.
Liquid applied waterproofing in roofing involves applying a liquid coating that cures to form a seamless, flexible, and durable waterproof membrane over the roof surface. This is particularly beneficial for complex roof shapes and areas that are prone to water pooling. This method provides a continuous barrier against water infiltration. It is commonly used on flat or low-slope roofs, offering strong protection and ease of application.
Sheeting and cladding in roofing involve covering the exterior of a roof with large, flat panels (sheeting) or protective layers (cladding) to provide weather resistance, structural support, and aesthetic appeal. Sheeting typically refers to materials like metal, plastic, or fiber cement panels that form the roof's surface. Cladding adds an extra protective layer, often enhancing insulation, durability, and the overall appearance of the building.
Mastic asphalt in roofing is a highly durable, waterproof material combining multiple materials, which is applied in a hot liquid form. Once cooled, it creates a seamless, solid surface that provides excellent protection against water infiltration, making it ideal for flat roofs, terraces, and walkways. It's highly regarded for its flexibility and longevity.
Hard metals in roofing refer to durable, long-lasting materials like zinc, copper, and stainless steel. These materials are used to create sleek, weather-resistant roof coverings. Hard metals are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, flexibility in design, and ability to form complex shapes, which means they can be used for modern and historic buildings. Hard metal roofs are also highly resistant to corrosion and can last for several decades.
Lead in roofing is a traditional material used for its malleability, durability, and excellent waterproofing properties. It is commonly employed for flashing, detailing, and weatherproofing around roof edges, chimneys, and other penetrations.
* these specialisms are contained within the roofer apprenticeship standard in England.
Hear from former Apprentice of the Year winner, Mo, about what it's like to be an apprentice.
