We’re all used to seeing modular space projects in the headlines now – these solutions are often considered the rising star of UK construction. It’s little surprise: they’re on the whole more efficient than building infrastructure on-site. As well as saving cost and time, modular builds are also blunting the edge of the housing crisis. 

Rapid roll-outs and inventive designs are something to celebrate. But there are still challenges within this sector. Modular construction must rise to face each of them, with the experience and talent necessary to realise all of its inherent potential. 

What are these challenges? We have some key points to consider from a modular build recruitment perspective… 

Factories need to be protected 

Since modular construction occurs far from the site at which the eventual building will be finalised, developers have to think about the factory environment. Storage is a big concern for those who design and hold modular materials until they’re ready for market. 

That means ensuring no rain, snow, flooding or harsh winds affect such units. Modular builds may be less exposed to the elements than their regular, on-site counterparts, but that carries more responsibility for off-site management. Security, capacity and weather protection must be carefully considered if a project is to be successful. 

From a recruitment perspective, we must fill roles that could line up anywhere in the 24/7 demands of modular space. Site supervision can’t be underestimated, and candidates need to be accountable for their piece of round-the-clock leadership and standards control.  

Full turnkey services must be at the fore 

Residential housing often brings many skills together. Architects, planners, groundwork specialists and – of course – construction professionals all have a hand in the final product. 

Yet for the modular space, in which thousands of new builds can be created in a fraction of the time, it’s better to have a single turnkey offer. More firms should widen their repertoire so a house can be envisioned, sketched, budgeted and built with one point of contact. This will speed up modular residential schemes. As a result, the UK’s housing issues will recede – something that is long overdue. 

Recruitment can play its part by looking at whole teams rather than individuals. Hiring strategies need to be more holistic. By considering how members of a team may reflect and complement one another, the turnkey solution is set up, backed by full-time hires who can spring to action.

Many construction workers will require more training 

When it comes to modular space, we need to recognise that, for many ‘traditional’ construction teams, old methods aren’t enough anymore. Retraining must occur with BIM technology and other precise design or resource allocation tools. 

That’s why we search far and wide for managerial hires who are excellent teachers, with enough technical know-how to pass on in a way that’s engaging and easy to digest. Modular projects can’t succeed without it. Ultimately, as more initiatives of this kind take hold in the UK, you’ll have to find and attract the candidates who can pass on such knowledge. Experience is important, but so are soft skills like patience and clear communication. 

The modular space isn’t short of big ideas. To really achieve them, though, you must have a talent collaborator who moves within this area every day, identifying skills for residential spaces and commercial offices, to name just a few. Contact us to navigate the challenging projects that are worth heading up.