New to construction
No experience?
No problem.
Construction is one of the most accessible industries to get into — and the pay is good. Here is exactly how to start, step by step.
How it works
From zero experience to getting paid — four steps.
Get your CSCS card
The green CSCS Labourer card is what sites require. You pass a 45-minute health and safety test, then apply for the card online. Total cost: £59.50 — and there are funded options if cost is a barrier.
How to get your CSCS card →Register with TradeHands
Fill in our short registration form. We will call you, confirm your details, and add you to our books for upcoming work.
Register now →Get matched to jobs
Once we have workers confirmed for a job, we contact you. You accept or decline. No obligation, no minimum hours.
Get paid weekly
We pay weekly through our payroll partners. Clear hours, clear pay, on time.
Free training available
You do not have to pay to get started. There are several ways to get your CSCS test and basic training funded.
✓Government Skills Bootcamps — fully free
6-week government-funded construction training programmes. Free to join. Covers site safety, CSCS preparation, and basic construction skills. At the end, you are guaranteed a job interview.
Available across London and the South East. You do not need to be on benefits to qualify.
✓On Universal Credit or benefits?
Your Jobcentre work coach can arrange funding for your CSCS test. Tell them you want to work in construction and ask about “Skills Support.” The test cost is covered.
✓Sector-Based Work Academy (SWAP)
A DWP programme offering 1–6 weeks of free construction training, work experience, and a guaranteed job interview. Available through Jobcentre Plus for people on benefits.
Not sure which route is right for you?
Call us and we will point you in the right direction. We help workers get their cards and get on site — that is what we do.
📞 Call 020 8090 9609What work is available
These are the most common entry-level roles on London and South East construction sites.
Labourer
General site work — clearing, moving materials, assisting trades. The most common entry-level role.
£120–£160/day
typical
Gateman
Controlling site access, visitor logging, vehicle management. Good for people who are organised and reliable.
£130–£160/day
typical
Traffic Marshal
Managing vehicle movements near the site entrance. Requires a one-day Traffic Marshal course on top of the CSCS card.
£130–£170/day
typical
General Operative
Flexible site support — mixed duties, short-notice cover. A good fit if you want variety.
£120–£155/day
typical
Day rates vary by site, experience, and location. These are indicative figures. TradeHands will confirm your rate before any assignment.
What you need to start
The list is short. Most people are surprised by how straightforward it is.
CSCS card
Required for almost every site. We will help you get one.
Right to work in the UK
Passport, visa, or biometric residence permit.
Basic PPE
Steel-toecap boots and hi-vis jacket as a minimum. Most sites provide the rest.
A working phone number
We contact you for work by phone and text.
Ready to get started?
Register your details and we will call you. No commitment, no fees. Just tell us what you can do and when you are available.