Apprenticeships in England
Apply for apprenticeships in England
BIM coordinator
Also known as -
BIM technician, BIM trainee
BIM (Building Information Modelling) coordinators are responsible for digital processes associated with the design and construction stages of a project. They ensure 3D models, drawings and structural data are hosted in one, accessible place and deliver project information model to clients.
Average salary*
£20000
-£50000
Typical hours per week
37-40
How to become a BIM coordinator
There are several routes to becoming a BIM coordinator. You can gain the qualifications you need by doing a university course or an apprenticeship.
You should explore these options to find out which is the right one for you.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University
You could study for an undergraduate degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant subject such as BIM management, architecture, construction, product design or architectural technology.
During your studies, you will learn how to use design software such as Autodesk Revit, Microstation or AutoCAD Civil 3D. Afterwards, you may be able to join a company’s graduate trainee scheme as a junior technician.
Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.
College/training provider
Your local college or training provider may offer courses in BIM management which will start you on your career path as a BIM coordinator.
Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction firm is a good way into the industry. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16.
You could complete an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction, or any apprenticeship which includes BIM coordination and management.
As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.
Work
If you already have experience of BIM or other suitable qualifications you may apply to companies directly for a job. Many construction companies will offer training in Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a BIM coordinator. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which will benefit anyone considering a job as a BIM coordinator include:
- Persistence and determination
- Initiative
- Problem solving
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Flexibility and open to change
- A thorough understanding of computer systems and applications.
Qualifications
To become a BIM coordinator, you could complete a:
- Intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction, or any apprenticeship which includes BIM coordination and management.
- Higher National Certificate (HNC) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
- Higher National Diploma (HND) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
To become a BIM coordinator, you could complete a:
- Intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction, or any apprenticeship which includes BIM coordination and management
- Higher National Certificate (HNC) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
- Higher National Diploma (HND) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
To become a BIM coordinator, you could complete a:
- Intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction, or any apprenticeship which includes BIM coordination and management
- Higher National Certificate (HNC) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
- Higher National Diploma (HND) in a construction related discipline which contains BIM
What does a BIM coordinator do?
As a BIM technician, you will be responsible for running a project runs to meet the specifications required. This involves producing technical drawings and models.
The job role of a BIM technician involves the following duties:
- Taking information from multiple plans and incorporating them into a single computer model which can be used to build and maintain a structure
- Liaising with design teams, clients, architects, surveyors, engineers and project managers
- Assisting engineers and senior managers with drawings and blueprints
- Producing structural models, drawings and schedules using computer programmes and BIM
- Presenting your designs and making amends based on feedback or prototype testing
- Designing technical solutions for buildings and other structures
- Ensuring plans are accurate and easy to interpret
- Working in an office.
How much could you earn as a BIM coordinator?
The expected salary for a BIM coordinator varies as you become more experienced.
- Newly trained BIM coordinators can earn £25,000 - £35,000
- Trained BIM coordinators with some experience can earn £35,000 - £45,000
- Senior, chartered or master BIM coordinators can earn £45,000 - £55,000.*
Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.
* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources
Find an apprenticeship/job
Apprenticeships
Advice and schemes
Jobs
Check out the latest BIM coordinator vacancies:
As these are external websites, the number of job vacancies related to your preferred job role may vary.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could progress to a role as BIM manager and earn a higher salary.