Careers AT HABENS
Build Your Future With Us
At DM Habens, we believe in building more than just structures, we’re building careers, communities, and a legacy of quality that has stood strong for over 40 years.
As a family-run business, we take pride in creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. Whether you're a skilled tradesperson, a recent graduate, or someone looking to take the next step in your career, there’s a place for you at Habens.
Why Join Habens?
Diverse Projects
– From schools and hospitals to housing developments and heritage restorations, we deliver a wide variety of projects across the South Coast.
Skilled & Supportive Team
– Work alongside experienced professionals in a culture that promotes teamwork, training, and mentorship.
Opportunities for Growth
– We invest in our people with ongoing training, apprenticeships, and clear pathways for development.
Commitment to Quality & Safety
– We uphold the highest standards in everything we do, from construction to customer care.
CURRENT VACANCIES
About the Role:
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Commercial Manager to lead the commercial function of our construction business. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong quantity surveyor with a proven track record in managing multiple small to medium-sized projects. You will be responsible for overseeing a team of quantity surveyors, estimators, and apprentices, ensuring commercial excellence across all projects and contributing directly to the company’s financial performance.
Key Responsibilities:
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Lead and manage the commercial division, including quantity surveyors, estimators, and apprentices, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and professional growth.
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Oversee multiple small to medium-sized construction projects simultaneously, ensuring commercial control, profitability, and timely delivery.
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Prepare detailed cost plans, budgets, and forecasts, providing expert advice to the project teams and financial director.
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Manage tender processes, evaluate subcontractor bids, and negotiate contracts to achieve optimal commercial outcomes.
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Monitor project costs and cash flow, identifying risks and opportunities, and implementing corrective actions where necessary.
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Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, commercial policies, and statutory regulations.
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Mentor and develop junior team members, enhancing their technical skills and understanding of commercial processes.
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Provide regular reports and updates to the Financial Director on commercial performance, project financials, and team productivity.
Requirements:
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Qualified Quantity Surveyor (MRICS or equivalent) with strong commercial acumen. - Desirable
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Significant experience managing multiple small to medium-sized construction projects.
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Proven experience leading a team of quantity surveyors, estimators, and apprentices.
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Excellent understanding of construction contracts, commercial management processes, and cost control.
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Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
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Proficient in construction software and Microsoft Office Suite.
What We Offer:
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Competitive salary
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20 days holiday plus bank holidays
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Company pool vehicle or car allowance
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Opportunity to lead and shape a growing commercial team.
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Exposure to a variety of projects across the construction sector.
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Supportive and collaborative working environment with opportunities for professional development.
Additional Information:
DM Habens is committed to a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities in employment in which individuals are selected and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities without regard to race, religion or belief, colour, sex, within the company. The aim of this policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on grounds not relevant to good employment practice.
A complete copy of DM Habens (The Builder) Ltd equal opportunities policy is available on request.
We signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021, and have proudly received our Silver Award. We recognise that those leaving the armed forces may be disadvantaged in terms of securing meaningful employment and adjusting to a civilian environment. We want to be a great employer with outstanding leadership and a talented, agile workforce. We believe that a diverse range of talent is vital in creating an effective workforce who can bring different skills and experiences to the table. We recognise Veterans bring an excellent work ethic and high value skills to our organisation and often their meticulous attention to detail and record keeping is incredibly beneficial when working within the construction industry. Veterans/service leavers are offered an internal mentor to aid their transition to the workforce along with support and guidance from our HR Department and the Armed Forces Network – Hampshire Division. At Habens we are proud to support The Mental Health Charter, and are company supporters of ‘The Lighthouse Club’ a construction industry-based charity providing proactive support, training and assistance for all employees and their families within the construction industry.
We support our staff to be reservists and cadet force adult instructors through the following:-
Additional leave for those serving in the reserve forces or those volunteering their time as adult cadet instructors for undertaking their annual camp or other training specific to their reserve or adult cadet instructor role
-
Flexible Working Policy to provide equal opportunity in employment
-
Reservists who have been mobilised will receive support from their line manager and other colleagues before, during and post mobilisation.
-
Spouses and civil partners of serving Regular or Reserve Forces personnel may be required to adjust family arrangements following their partner's posting or deployment. This can place additional burdens upon the spouse/family and they may wish to consider the option of flexible working or Time off for Dependants as a temporary or permanent measure.
-
Where appropriate, compassionate or special leave may be granted to spouses to assist them in dealing with critical issues arising from deployment or illness, injury or death wholly or partly attributable to being in service.
Benefits:-
Company events
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Private medical insurance
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About the Role
DM Habens is seeking a dynamic and experienced Construction Contracts Manager to join our team. As a key player in our organisation, you'll be responsible for overseeing and coordinating construction projects from conception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality. You’ll collaborate closely with clients, subcontractors, and construction professionals, leading your team to success across a variety of projects.
What We Offer
- Competitive Salary: £50,000.00 - £70,000.00 per year, depending on experience.
- Company Car: To facilitate your travel between sites and meetings.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Private healthcare insurance for you and your family.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy our annual Christmas shutdown period in December.
- Professional Growth: Access to regular workplace events, hospitality packages, and opportunities for career development.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Planning & Coordination: Manage all phases of construction projects, from initial planning through to completion. This includes creating detailed project schedules, working closely with Quantity Surveyors on costings, and ensuring efficient procurement of materials and equipment.
- Team Leadership: Select, lead, and motivate your project team, ensuring all members are aligned with project goals and deadlines.
- On-Site Management: Oversee daily operations on construction sites, including supervision of the labor force, monitoring subcontractor performance, inspecting materials, and ensuring quality control.
- Client & Stakeholder Communication :Maintain open lines of communication with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and other stakeholders, providing regular updates on project progress.
- Health & Safety Compliance:Ensure all projects adhere to ISO45001 standards, conducting site inspections and enforcing safety protocols.
- Problem Solving: Proactively address and resolve any unexpected issues that arise during the project lifecycle.
- Simultaneous Project Management: Successfully manage multiple projects at once, ensuring each one is completed to the highest standard.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Educational Background: HNC or degree in a relevant field such as Construction Management, Building Studies, or Project Management.
- Experience: Proven track record as a Construction Contracts Manager, with experience in managing complex construction projects.
- Health & Safety Training: Relevant certifications (e.g., SMSTS, First Aid, Manual Handling) and a strong commitment to health and safety practices.
- Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with construction management software (e.g., Procore) and strong IT skills.
- Core Competencies:
- Leadership & Communication: Strong ability to lead teams and communicate effectively with diverse groups.
- Organisational Skills: Excellent planning and organisational capabilities to manage time, resources, and project schedules.
- Problem-Solving: Resilience and adaptability in overcoming challenges.
- Attention to Detail: High standards for quality control and contract management.
- Commercial Awareness: Keen understanding of budgeting, cost control, and client concerns.
What We Offer:
-
Competitive salary
-
20 days holiday plus bank holidays
-
Company pool vehicle or car allowance
-
Opportunity to lead and shape a growing commercial team.
-
Exposure to a variety of projects across the construction sector.
-
Supportive and collaborative working environment with opportunities for professional development.
Additional Information:
DM Habens is committed to a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities in employment in which individuals are selected and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities without regard to race, religion or belief, colour, sex, within the company. The aim of this policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on grounds not relevant to good employment practice.
A complete copy of DM Habens (The Builder) Ltd equal opportunities policy is available on request.
We signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021, and have proudly received our Silver Award. We recognise that those leaving the armed forces may be disadvantaged in terms of securing meaningful employment and adjusting to a civilian environment. We want to be a great employer with outstanding leadership and a talented, agile workforce. We believe that a diverse range of talent is vital in creating an effective workforce who can bring different skills and experiences to the table. We recognise Veterans bring an excellent work ethic and high value skills to our organisation and often their meticulous attention to detail and record keeping is incredibly beneficial when working within the construction industry. Veterans/service leavers are offered an internal mentor to aid their transition to the workforce along with support and guidance from our HR Department and the Armed Forces Network – Hampshire Division. At Habens we are proud to support The Mental Health Charter, and are company supporters of ‘The Lighthouse Club’ a construction industry-based charity providing proactive support, training and assistance for all employees and their families within the construction industry.
We support our staff to be reservists and cadet force adult instructors through the following:-
Additional leave for those serving in the reserve forces or those volunteering their time as adult cadet instructors for undertaking their annual camp or other training specific to their reserve or adult cadet instructor role
-
Flexible Working Policy to provide equal opportunity in employment
-
Reservists who have been mobilised will receive support from their line manager and other colleagues before, during and post mobilisation.
-
Spouses and civil partners of serving Regular or Reserve Forces personnel may be required to adjust family arrangements following their partner's posting or deployment. This can place additional burdens upon the spouse/family and they may wish to consider the option of flexible working or Time off for Dependants as a temporary or permanent measure.
-
Where appropriate, compassionate or special leave may be granted to spouses to assist them in dealing with critical issues arising from deployment or illness, injury or death wholly or partly attributable to being in service.
-
About the Role:
We are looking for a motivated Project Manager to join our construction team. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on project experience who is ready to take ownership of smaller construction projects (up to £500k) while gaining exposure to larger, more complex projects. You will assist our Contracts Managers, develop your skills in commercial and site management, and have a clear pathway to progress into a Contracts Manager role.
Key Responsibilities:-
Manage smaller construction projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to high quality standards.
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Assist Contracts Managers in the planning, coordination, and execution of larger, complex projects.
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Prepare and maintain Construction Phase Plans and Risk Assessments & Method Statements.
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Attend project meetings, liaising with clients, subcontractors, and the project team to ensure effective communication and smooth project delivery.
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Monitor project progress, identify risks or issues, and propose solutions to maintain schedule and budget compliance.
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Support procurement and subcontractor management as required.
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Contribute to continuous improvement of project management processes.
Requirements:
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Proven experience in construction project management or site management.
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Ability to manage multiple smaller projects (up to £500k) simultaneously.
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Experience preparing CPPs, RAMS, and other site documentation.
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Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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Ambitious and motivated with a desire to grow into a Contracts Manager role.
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Knowledge of construction contracts, health & safety regulations, and project control processes.
What We Offer:
-
Competitive salary
-
20 days holiday plus bank holidays
-
Company pool vehicle or car allowance
-
Hands-on experience with a variety of projects across the construction sector.
-
Mentoring and support to develop into a Contracts Manager role.
-
Friendly, collaborative team environment with opportunities for career progression.
Additional Information:
DM Habens is committed to a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities in employment in which individuals are selected and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities without regard to race, religion or belief, colour, sex, within the company. The aim of this policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on grounds not relevant to good employment practice.
A complete copy of DM Habens (The Builder) Ltd equal opportunities policy is available on request.
We signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021, and have proudly received our Silver Award. We recognise that those leaving the armed forces may be disadvantaged in terms of securing meaningful employment and adjusting to a civilian environment. We want to be a great employer with outstanding leadership and a talented, agile workforce. We believe that a diverse range of talent is vital in creating an effective workforce who can bring different skills and experiences to the table. We recognise Veterans bring an excellent work ethic and high value skills to our organisation and often their meticulous attention to detail and record keeping is incredibly beneficial when working within the construction industry. Veterans/service leavers are offered an internal mentor to aid their transition to the workforce along with support and guidance from our HR Department and the Armed Forces Network – Hampshire Division. At Habens we are proud to support The Mental Health Charter, and are company supporters of ‘The Lighthouse Club’ a construction industry-based charity providing proactive support, training and assistance for all employees and their families within the construction industry.
We support our staff to be reservists and cadet force adult instructors through the following:-
Additional leave for those serving in the reserve forces or those volunteering their time as adult cadet instructors for undertaking their annual camp or other training specific to their reserve or adult cadet instructor role
-
Flexible Working Policy to provide equal opportunity in employment
-
Reservists who have been mobilised will receive support from their line manager and other colleagues before, during and post mobilisation.
-
Spouses and civil partners of serving Regular or Reserve Forces personnel may be required to adjust family arrangements following their partner's posting or deployment. This can place additional burdens upon the spouse/family and they may wish to consider the option of flexible working or Time off for Dependants as a temporary or permanent measure.
-
Where appropriate, compassionate or special leave may be granted to spouses to assist them in dealing with critical issues arising from deployment or illness, injury or death wholly or partly attributable to being in service.
-
Key Responsibilities:
-
Manage and oversee daily operations on construction sites from start to finish
-
Coordinate effectively with contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams
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Monitor project schedules to ensure deadlines and specifications are met
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Conduct regular site inspections and resolve issues as they arise
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Maintain up-to-date project documentation including permits, contracts, and reports utilising Construction Software (Procore)
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Ensure adherence to all safety regulations and company standards
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Support project planning and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
Key Skills and Qualifications:
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Proven experience in a site management role within the construction industry
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Strong organizational and time management skills
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Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities
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Confident in reading and interpreting construction drawings
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Proficiency in using project management software and digital tools
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Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
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Proven experience as Construction Contracts Manager
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Willingness to follow ISO45001 Health & Safety guidelines at all times
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Relevant H&S Training eg: SMSTS, First Aid, Manual Handling etc.
You’ll need to show:-
Strong communication skills – for liaising with a range of clients, professionals and workers on site
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Leadership skills and an ability to motivate your team to ensure a high standard of work
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Excellent planning and organisational skills – for writing and monitoring project plans and schedules and utilising time and resources effectively
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Resilience and problem-solving skills – in order to overcome unexpected challenges during the construction process
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An ability to make decisions under pressure, so that the project can progress
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Strong attention to detail for conducting site inspections and managing complex contracts
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An awareness of health and safety procedures and legislation – for running a safe construction site
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Sound commercial awareness – to allocate and manage your budget effectively and to understand client concerns
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Numerical and IT skills, including knowledge of relevant building methods and project management software to manage information and finances during the project.
Additional Information:
DM Habens is committed to a comprehensive policy of equal opportunities in employment in which individuals are selected and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities without regard to race, religion or belief, colour, sex, within the company. The aim of this policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on grounds not relevant to good employment practice.
A complete copy of DM Habens (The Builder) Ltd equal opportunities policy is available on request.
We signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021, and have proudly received our Silver Award. We recognise that those leaving the armed forces may be disadvantaged in terms of securing meaningful employment and adjusting to a civilian environment. We want to be a great employer with outstanding leadership and a talented, agile workforce. We believe that a diverse range of talent is vital in creating an effective workforce who can bring different skills and experiences to the table. We recognise Veterans bring an excellent work ethic and high value skills to our organisation and often their meticulous attention to detail and record keeping is incredibly beneficial when working within the construction industry. Veterans/service leavers are offered an internal mentor to aid their transition to the workforce along with support and guidance from our HR Department and the Armed Forces Network – Hampshire Division. At Habens we are proud to support The Mental Health Charter, and are company supporters of ‘The Lighthouse Club’ a construction industry-based charity providing proactive support, training and assistance for all employees and their families within the construction industry.
We support our staff to be reservists and cadet force adult instructors through the following:-
Additional leave for those serving in the reserve forces or those volunteering their time as adult cadet instructors for undertaking their annual camp or other training specific to their reserve or adult cadet instructor role
-
Flexible Working Policy to provide equal opportunity in employment
-
Reservists who have been mobilised will receive support from their line manager and other colleagues before, during and post mobilisation.
-
Spouses and civil partners of serving Regular or Reserve Forces personnel may be required to adjust family arrangements following their partner's posting or deployment. This can place additional burdens upon the spouse/family and they may wish to consider the option of flexible working or Time off for Dependants as a temporary or permanent measure.
-
Where appropriate, compassionate or special leave may be granted to spouses to assist them in dealing with critical issues arising from deployment or illness, injury or death wholly or partly attributable to being in service.
Benefits:-
Company events
-
Private medical insurance
Schedule:
-
Day shift
-
Monday to Friday
-
No weekends
Experience:
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Site Management: 5 years (preferred)
-
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join an innovative and growing construction company as a Business Administration Apprentice. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to begin a career in Business Administration with the added benefit of a potential structured progression and in-house development. Based at the DM Habens offices in Southsea, you will work alongside a friendly team of four administrators, as well as project managers and directors. You will receive full training and gain hands-on experience in corporate policies and procedures, including data management, certification processing, spreadsheets, scanning, and filing systems.
Key Responsibilities:
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Reception duties, such as greeting visitors and managing deliveries
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Assisting project managers with administrative tasks
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Answering and directing phone calls
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Filing, document management, and preparing Health and Safety files
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Supporting with other administrative duties as required, including preparing Construction Phase Plans
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Data Processing
Desired Skills:
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Accuracy in data processing and data extraction
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Willingness to learn
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Good telephone manner and communication skills
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Attention to detail and ability to work well in a small team
Qualifications:
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Must achieve at least a Level 4 in maths and English
Personal Qualities:
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Proactive, with strong problem-solving skills
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Friendly, reliable, hard-working, and confident
Future Prospects:
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Potential for an Advanced Apprenticeship
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Opportunity to progress into a full-time position
Benefits:
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Company events
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Private medical insurance – Salary Sacrifice
Additional Considerations:
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Small but busy office, requiring strong motivation
Schedule:-
Day shift
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Monday to Friday
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No weekends
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Job Type
Full-time
PayCompetitive apprenticeship rates
(varies depending on apprenticeship type and age bracket).
Work Location
In person
Habens are excited to announce our 2026 Apprenticeship Programme, offering fantastic opportunities for enthusiastic and motivated individuals looking to start their careers in the construction industry.
We are offering apprenticeships in the following areas:
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Construction Management
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Quantity Surveying
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Construction Site Management
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Trades
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Administration
About the Apprenticeships
Working in partnership with local colleges, apprentices will attend either City of Portsmouth College or Portsmouth University, depending on their day release and chosen course. You’ll gain hands-on, real-life experience in the workplace, working alongside experienced professionals while developing your skills and knowledge through formal training. To apply, please follow the below details and after reviewing your application, shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Habens office for an interview.
What We’re Looking For
You’ll need to show:
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A genuine interest in the construction industry
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A positive attitude and willingness to learn
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Good communication and teamwork skills
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Reliability, commitment, and enthusiasm
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The ability to balance work and study
How to Apply
To apply, please email your CV and a cover letter to Personnel@dmhabensltd.co.uk including the following details in your cover letter:
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Which apprenticeship you’d like to be considered for (e.g. Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, etc.)
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Why you’re interested in this apprenticeship and why you think you’d be a great fit for Habens
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A brief summary of your education (including school or college attended and current or predicted qualifications)
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Any previous work experience (if applicable)
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Your contact details (address, phone number, and email)
Start your journey in construction with Habens
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