Professional Pathways Participant

Reporting to

Program Manager

Location

Various RLB Offices and Project Sites

Department

Multiple Service Lines (Project Management, Cost Management, Estimating, Advisory)

Program Duration

18–24 Months (based on performance and readiness)

About the role

The RLB Future Professionals Program / Professional Pathways is a structured career development program designed to support employees as they expand their consulting expertise and prepare for future career opportunities within Rider Levett Bucknall. Through a combination of rotational assignments, formal training, mentorship, and hands-on project experience, participants gain broad exposure to RLB's core service offerings while developing the technical, professional, and leadership skills required for long-term success.

This program provides a unique opportunity for employees to build a well-rounded understanding of the construction consulting industry, explore areas of specialization, and establish a clear pathway toward future career growth within RLB.

Program Objectives

Participants will gain:

• Practical experience across multiple consulting disciplines
• Development of technical, analytical, and professional consulting skills
• Confidence in working with clients, project teams, and stakeholders
• Strengthening of leadership, communication, and problem-solving capabilities
• Exploration of career pathways aligned with their interests, strengths, and business needs
• Preparation for long-term career progression and future leadership opportunities within RLB

Responsibilities

Throughout the program, participants will rotate through various disciplines and may be responsible for:

• Assisting with project planning, scheduling, and coordination activities
• Participating in stakeholder and client meetings
• Monitoring project budgets, schedules, risks, and deliverables
• Supporting change management, quality management, and project controls
• Reviewing project documentation, drawings, specifications, RFIs, and submittals
• Performing quantity takeoffs and assisting with cost estimates
• Reviewing drawings and specifications for cost impacts
• Supporting procurement and bid evaluation activities
• Analyzing project costs and market conditions
• Contributing to estimate development and reporting
• Assisting with budget development and cost planning
• Supporting cost reporting, forecasting, and change management
• Tracking project expenditures against budgets
• Participating in financial analysis and project cost control activities
• Supporting schedule reviews, project analysis, and advisory deliverables
• Assisting with risk assessments and performance monitoring
• Learning construction scheduling fundamentals and delay analysis techniques
• Participating in the preparation of reports and recommendations for clients
• Observing construction activities and project execution in the field
• Participating in site meetings, inspections, and safety briefings
• Supporting project documentation, reporting, and quality control processes
• Developing an understanding of construction sequencing and site logistics

Optional Client Relations & Business Development Exposure

• Attending client meetings and presentations
• Assisting with proposal development and marketing initiatives
• Supporting market research and business development activities
• Developing an understanding of client relationship management

Program Features

Participants will receive:

• Structured rotational assignments across multiple service lines
• Dedicated mentor and manager support
• Formal technical and professional development training
• Leadership and communication development opportunities
• Exposure to real-world projects and client environments
• A capstone project demonstrating learning and career readiness
• Guidance toward certification and professional development opportunities

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will demonstrate:

• Strong interest in developing a consulting career within the built environment
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams
• Alignment with RLB's values, client service standards, and commitment to excellence

Success Factors

Successful participants will:

• Actively engage in rotational assignments and training opportunities
• Demonstrate technical growth and application of new knowledge
• Seek and apply feedback from managers and mentors
• Exhibit professionalism, accountability, and collaboration
• Show readiness for increasing levels of responsibility and autonomy

Program Completion

Upon successful completion of the Professional Pathways Program, participants will be considered for permanent placement aligned with their demonstrated strengths, specialization interests, and business needs. Graduates of the program will be positioned for continued development through RLB's broader career pathways and future leadership opportunities.

Minimum Education

Currently enrolled or have completed an Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in construction management, or related experience.

Minimum Experience

1 to two years of experience in a construction related field is preferred.

Skills Required

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Understanding of construction methods and sequencing
• Basic knowledge of building systems (structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing)
• Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and shop drawings
• Understanding of contracts and project documents

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Indoor office environment. May require work on site location when necessary
• Equipment used includes computers and standard office machines
• Essential physical tasks include: the ability to work on a computer and the ability to answer and speak on a telephone