Off-site Construction Research Centre

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Have you ever wondered what a career in off-site construction looks like? Maybe you’re hearing more about it lately and are curious about the opportunities. Well, you’re not alone! When people come across the Off-site Construction Research Centre, it’s sometimes the first time they’ve ever heard of “off-site construction”. We’re going to dive into everything you need to know about opportunities within the off-site construction field.

What exactly is off-site construction?

Before we dive into careers, let’s get clear on what off-site construction (OSC) is. It’s not your typical on-site construction where everything is built from the ground up. Instead, parts of a building—like walls, floors, and even full rooms—are built in a factory, then transported to the construction site for assembly. Think of it as prefabrication on a whole new level. From modular homes to high-rise buildings, OSC is transforming how we think about construction.

Why consider a career in off-site construction?

Here’s the thing - off-site construction is growing fast. It’s more efficient, cuts down on waste, and helps projects finish quicker, which is a huge deal in today’s fast-paced world. If you're someone who wants to be part of an innovative industry that’s shaping the future, this could be for you.

Here are some common things people search for about OSC careers, and why it might be a great fit for you:

Types of jobs in off-site construction

You might be surprised at how many different roles exist in OSC. It’s not just for people with hard hats on construction sites (though those jobs are important too!). Here are some key roles:

• Designers and architects: Use digital tools like BIM (Building Information Modeling) to design structures that can be assembled off-site. Creativity meets technology here.
• Manufacturing and assembly workers: These are the folks on the factory floor, making sure the building components are fabricated correctly. No two days are the same in this job.
• Project managers and coordinators: Oversee the entire process, from design to delivery. If you’re organized and love keeping things on track, this role could be your calling.
• Logistics and supply chain specialists: Getting parts from the factory to the site is no small task. These pros handle transportation, scheduling, and making sure everything arrives on time.

How to get started in off-site construction

If you’re wondering how to start a career in OSC, the path is pretty similar to traditional construction, but with a few modern twists. Depending on the role you’re interested in, here’s what might help:

• Get educated: A degree or diploma in construction management, engineering, or architecture is a great start. Some community colleges and universities even offer specific programs in prefabrication and off-site construction. (hint: stay tuned for our Advanced Methods of Construction certiticate)
• Gain experience: Internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs in construction, manufacturing, or design can give you hands-on experience. Many OSC companies offer training to get you up to speed on the latest tech and processes.
• Know your tech: Familiarity with digital design tools (like BIM) is a huge plus in this industry. As OSC relies on advanced technology, knowing how to navigate digital platforms can set you apart.

Is off-site construction the future of the industry?

Yes! As more people look for sustainable, efficient, and faster ways to build, OSC is becoming a game-changer. It’s a growing field that’s getting a lot of attention, not just for its environmental benefits but for the flexibility it offers in design and construction timelines.

Benefits of working in off-site construction

• Stability: With the industry growing rapidly, jobs in OSC are more stable than ever. As companies continue to look for ways to innovate, more opportunities are opening up across different fields.
• Flexibility: OSC allows for flexible work environments. Because so much happens in the factory, there’s less reliance on job site schedules. Plus, roles like design or project management often allow for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
• Tech-driven: If you’re a fan of working with cutting-edge technology, OSC is where you want to be. From 3D modeling to automated assembly, this sector is embracing technology like never before.
• Innovative: Our industry partners in off-site are always innovating, and always looking for ways to do things better. If you’re someone who enjoys this type of thing – off-site construction could be a great field for you! Check out some of our project highlights as an example of the exciting work that’s happening in OSC:
  • Arctic Modular Homes Factory Corp. – building a new manufacturing facility to deliver modular homes to Nunavut
  • Ironwood Manufactured Homes – expanding into a brand new facility, which will significantly increase their annual production.
  • Roberts Group – building a new manufacturing facility in PEI

If you want to read more about the work we’ve been doing with the OSC industry, you can check out our project profiles.