Where Passion Meets Purpose: What Makes Construction a Great Career

There’s a reason more and more people are choosing construction as a career path, and it’s not just about the tools, the steel, or the big machines! A career in the construction industry builds more than structures; it builds confidence, capability, and long-term success. And at Sierra Construction Group, it builds all that with a team that feels more like family.

WHY CONSTRUCTION?

Construction is one of those careers where no two days are exactly the same. It’s hands-on, fast-paced, and constantly evolving. Whether you're working on a bridge, a new apartment building, or a municipal upgrade, there’s always a new challenge to tackle and a new solution to figure out. That variety keeps things interesting and makes every day feel like a chance to accomplish something meaningful.

One of the most rewarding parts of construction is seeing the direct impact of your work. You don’t just check tasks off a list; you help shape the spaces people live, work, and connect in. That sense of purpose runs deep in this industry. From a brand-new community hub to a major highway expansion, you can drive by years later and say, “I helped build that.”

“The work is really satisfying. At the end of the day, after you’ve poured the concrete, stripped the forms, and can actually drive across what you built – that’s pretty cool. A lot of people use what we build every day. There wouldn’t be bridges without us, and that’s a really cool feeling.” – Robyn Mackenzie, Sierra Bridge Site Foreman (5 years)  

Construction is also a great mix of technical skill and practical experience. It rewards people who are curious, hardworking, and ready to learn. Whether you’re interested in skilled trades, project coordination, health and safety, or site supervision, there’s a role that fits your strengths. It’s a field where your effort is noticed and where growth often comes from stepping up and taking initiative.

If you’re someone who enjoys solving problems, working with others, and being part of something bigger, construction might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s not just a job; it’s a career with momentum, impact, and a lot of potential to grow.

WHY SIERRA?

At Sierra Construction Group, great work starts with great people. Since 1994, we have grown with a team that is truly committed to what we build together. Many of our employees have been with us for years, including some who have been here since day one. That kind of loyalty comes from a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and excited to grow. Even as our team has nearly doubled in the past three years, we have stayed true to our people-first culture where collaboration, opportunity, and long-term careers thrive.

As Andrew Doll, General Site Superintendent with our General Contracting division (6 years), puts it:

“The professionalism and core values are present immediately when you walk through our doors or enter our sites. This is the ambiance that radiates through every employee and separates Sierra from the competition on every level.”

At Sierra, career growth isn’t just a buzzword. It’s something we live every day. From general labourers and summer students to project managers and division leaders, many of our team members have grown with us over time. Many of our current Superintendents, Project Managers, and Division Leaders actually started as General Labourers or Co-op students! Our team prioritize hands-on learning, mentorship, and internal advancement so that your job here doesn’t stall. It builds momentum!

We also believe everyone belongs on site. Whether you're new to the country, a woman breaking into the trades, or someone pivoting careers later in life, there's a place for you at Sierra. A diverse team makes us stronger, and we’re proud to be a company where different backgrounds and perspectives are welcomed and celebrated.

This is what makes Sierra different: a culture that values hard work, creates space for growth, and supports the people behind the projects. When our team thrives, our work speaks for itself.

WORK HARD. PLAY HARD. GROW TOGETHER.

Yes, we take our work seriously. But we also know how to have a good time! From team BBQs and Christmas parties to Halloween celebrations and welcome lunches, we believe that strong teams are built through meaningful connection.

Culture is more than just a buzzword at Sierra. It is something we build into every crew, every job site, and every interaction. Take Jared Boodram, for example. Now a full-time Tail Man in our Infrastructure division, Jared first joined Sierra as a summer student when he was just 16. Today, he’s been with us full time for three years, and he’s not the only Boodram on site! Jared has worked alongside both of his older brothers and his dad, who has been with Sierra for over 25 years! That kind of multigenerational connection speaks to something bigger than just a job. It reflects the kind of workplace Sierra is: one where people feel valued, supported, and proud to stay.

Project Manager Stephanie Brown, who joined the General Contracting team two years ago, puts it simply:

“I love working at Sierra. It has that small family feel while still being a pretty large company.”

It is a sentiment we hear often, and one that reflects the culture our ownership team has intentionally shaped over the years. No matter how much we grow, Sierra continues to feel like a place where people matter, and that’s what sets us apart.

"Everybody's like family. We've had a lot of people here who have started even before me, so I've almost grown up with them. And then the people who have come on and stayed, you've almost taught them to be what they are now. So, it's nice seeing people grow with you!" — Karl Ziegenbalg, Sierra Infrastructure Working Foreman (19 years)

At Sierra, we’re also serious about supporting our people as they grow. That is why professional development is built into the way we work. From technical training and certifications to mentorship and leadership opportunities, we make sure our team members have the tools they need to succeed. Want to lead a lunch-and-learn on a new tool or process? Go for it! Thinking about expanding your role? Let’s talk about your goals!

Your growth is our priority, because when you succeed, so does Sierra.

“In my opinion, it’s the best company around. They’re big on professional development, and Sierra is willing to train you to be whatever you want to be.” — Jared Misener, General Contracting Site Supervisor (2 years)

No matter where you are in your career, Sierra is a place where you can build something meaningful, whether that is your skillset, your network, or your future.

BUILT ON VALUES, DRIVEN BY PEOPLE

Our values are more than words on a wall. They guide the way we work, how we show up for one another, and how we support our clients and communities. At Sierra, we strive every day to Do the Right Thing, bring that Extra Gear to every challenge, and lead with a We Not Me mindset. Whether it's boosting employee morale or collaborating with clients and trade partners, we stay Authentic in our approach and embrace Lessons Learned as we grow and improve together.

As Ian McKichan, Site Foreman on our Bridge team, puts it:

“What makes Sierra different is the people you work with. If you don’t enjoy the people you work with, it’s not worth it—but the guys are great here.”

That people-first culture is something we take seriously at every level. We believe in supporting our team both on and off the job site. Our Disconnect from Work policy encourages a healthy balance between personal and professional life, and we back that up by showing up for our teams in meaningful ways. Whether it’s contributing to charities close to their hearts, sponsoring their children’s youth sports teams, or giving back through partnerships with groups like United Way Oxford and Big Brothers Big Sisters, we’re committed to building strong communities alongside strong projects.

We also know that the future of the industry depends on who we bring in today. Through our efforts in investing in the next generation, we work closely with local schools and post-secondary institutions to create meaningful opportunities for young people interested in construction. From high school students getting their first taste of the trades to co-op students learning the ropes on real job sites, Sierra opens doors early and sets the stage for long-term success.

When values are lived, not just listed, it shows.

Ready to Build Something Bigger?

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a move, Sierra could be the right fit for your future! Check out our open positions or reach out to our team, even if you don’t see the perfect role listed. We’re always looking for passionate professionals who want to make their mark in the industry!

Send your resume to careers@sierraconstruction.ca and let’s build something incredible, together!