Construction assistant
Indigenous Project Management (IPM)

At Indigenous Project Management (IPM), we are an enthusiastic and motivated team who are passionate about our trade. Our company is focused on delivering professional services with outstanding workmanship across every project.

IPM specialises in industrial, commercial, residential, civil, plumbing, building, electrical, and remote Aboriginal community works, establishing a close rapport with our clients throughout every stage of the job. This approach enables us to fully understand our clients’ requirements and ensures their needs are met to their complete satisfaction.

Our skill and reputation are the foundation of our success. IPM also specialises in project management, ensuring our clients experience the smoothest and most cost‑effective completion of their project(s).

Building Opportunity Description
This opportunity provides hands-on exposure to the building and construction industry, supporting experienced tradespeople across a range of works. Participants will:

• Observe general construction activities, including framing, concreting, and finishing
• Assist with site preparation and basic manual tasks
• Learn how to read plans and understand overall construction workflows
• Develop a strong awareness of workplace health and safety, including the safe use of tools and equipment

This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical experience, develop foundational construction skills, and build a pathway into the building industry.

Skills You Might Learn

Through this observe‑only building placement, students will develop a range of foundational workplace and industry awareness skills, including:

• Understanding of basic building and construction processes and site operations
• Awareness of construction workflows, sequencing, and how different trades interact
• Ability to observe and interpret construction plans, drawings, and project documentation
• Increased knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) practices and site rules
• Recognition of tools, equipment, and machinery used in the building industry
• Development of professional workplace behaviour, including punctuality, communication, and respect for site protocols
• Improved observation, listening, and note‑taking skills in an active work environment
• Greater awareness of career pathways within the building and construction industry

This placement supports students in building confidence, industry understanding, and informed decision‑making about future training or employment opportunities.

Typical Tasks & Duties

Students participating in this opportunity will observe workplace activities only under the supervision of qualified tradespeople and project managers. Tasks and duties may include:

• Observing general site activities, including framing, concreting, cladding, and finishing works
• Watching how sites are set up, managed, and kept safe and organised
• Observing tradespeople as they use tools, equipment, and machinery
• Learning how construction teams work together and follow project timelines
• Observing how construction plans and drawings are interpreted on site
• Gaining an understanding of workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements, including PPE use
• Developing awareness of construction workflows, sequencing, and site communication
• Demonstrating appropriate workplace behaviour, including punctuality, listening skills, and professionalism

This observe‑only placement is designed to provide students with a safe introduction to the building industry, helping them understand real‑world construction environments and career pathways without performing physical tasks.

Student Requirements

To participate in this observe‑only placement, students are required to meet the following expectations:

• Demonstrate a genuine interest in the building and construction industry
• Follow all workplace health and safety (WHS) rules, site instructions, and signage at all times
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as directed (e.g. high‑visibility clothing, safety footwear, helmet, eye protection)
• Maintain professional behaviour, including punctuality, respectful conduct, and attentiveness
• Listen carefully to instructions provided by supervisors and staff
• Observe only, no hands‑on work, use of tools, or operation of equipment
• Remain within designated safe observation areas at all times
• Advise supervisors of any medical conditions or concerns that may impact participation
• Comply with all school, employer, and site induction requirements

These requirements ensure a safe, respectful, and educational experience for students while on site.

Dress Requirements

Students must wear appropriate clothing at all times to meet construction site safety and professional standards. The following dress requirements apply:

• High‑visibility (hi‑vis) clothing (vest or shirt)
• Enclosed, sturdy footwear (preferably steel‑capped safety boots; no sandals or open shoes)
• Long pants (no shorts, skirts, or loose clothing)
• Long‑sleeved shirt to protect from sun and site hazards
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection as directed on site
• Clothing must be clean, neat, and suitable for an active construction environment
• Long hair must be tied back, and minimal jewellery is to be worn
• No offensive logos, inappropriate graphics, or revealing clothing

Students who do not meet dress requirements may be refused site entry for safety reasons.

Special Transport Requirements

• Students are responsible for arranging their own transport to and from the work site
• Construction sites may be located in industrial, remote, or developing areas where public transport access is limited or unavailable
• Public transport availability cannot be guaranteed, and students should confirm options in advance
• Travel by private vehicle, school‑arranged transport, or parent/carer transport may be required
• Students must arrive prior to site start times, which may be earlier than standard school hours
• Specific site locations and access details will be provided before the placement commences
• Any transport concerns should be discussed with the school and placement coordinator prior to confirmation
These requirements help ensure students arrive safely, on time, and prepared for the placement.