The foundation of tomorrow's world isn't being poured in concrete—it's being engineered by visionaries who understand that the future of building lies not just in what we build, but in how we think about building itself.
The building materials industry stands at a pivotal moment. While others see lumber and steel, industry pioneers like IKO, Star Building Materials, and SiteOne are architecting the sustainable, innovative backbone of tomorrow's infrastructure. For professionals seeking more than just a career pivot—those hungry for the chance to literally build the future—the building materials sector is opening unprecedented doors to transformational opportunities.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- An Industry of Growth - Offering Purposeful Work
- 5 Open Roles You Can Apply For Today
- Plant Manager
- EWP Truss Designer
- Kitchen Sales Support Specialist
- Area Business Manager
- District Sales Manager
- Why These Positions Matter
- The Future of Building Materials
- Your Next Steps
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
An Industry of Growth - Offering Purposeful Work
The building materials industry is evolving into something entirely different from what it was even five years ago. With sustainability mandates reshaping construction standards and smart building technologies revolutionizing how we think about infrastructure, this sector offers something rare in today's economy: purposeful work with tangible impact.
From engineered wood products that are replacing traditional lumber to advanced roofing systems that integrate renewable energy, professionals in building materials aren't just selling products—they're selling the future. The industry's commitment to innovation, coupled with its essential role in housing, commercial development, and infrastructure projects, creates a career landscape where growth isn't just possible, it's inevitable.
Consider this: every home built, every office constructed, every bridge erected requires the expertise, innovation, and strategic thinking of building materials professionals. In an industry where your work literally shapes the spaces where people live, work, and connect, career satisfaction reaches levels that desk-bound industries simply can't match.
5 Open Roles You Can Apply For Today
1. Plant Manager at IKO North America (Brampton, ON)
Picture yourself orchestrating the transformation of raw materials into the roofing systems that protect millions of North American homes. IKO Industries, a market-leading Canadian manufacturer with global reach, seeks a transformational leader to helm their Brampton facility—a role that's less about management and more about industrial artistry.
The Vision: This isn't your typical plant manager position. With oversight of 125+ employees and responsibility for the complete manufacturing ecosystem, you'll be the architect of operational excellence in a facility that turns raw materials into products that literally weather every storm. IKO's commitment to quality, integrity, and innovation creates an environment where your leadership doesn't just impact production metrics—it influences the standard of protection for countless families.
What Sets This Apart:
- Strategic Impact: Direct influence on manufacturing processes that serve residential and commercial markets across North America
- Leadership Scope: Team of 125+ skilled professionals in a union environment that values collaboration
- Innovation Focus: Implementation of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
- Growth Trajectory: Clear advancement path within a globally expanding organization
The Ideal Visionary:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (preferably Mechanical) with 10+ years of plant management experience
- Proven track record in manufacturing turnarounds and performance optimization
- Expertise in safety management, quality control, and lean manufacturing principles
- Leadership experience in complex technical manufacturing environments
At IKO, the Plant Manager role transcends traditional manufacturing oversight. This position places you at the epicenter of roofing innovation in North America, where you'll orchestrate the transformation of raw materials into products that literally protect millions of families from the elements. As the operational architect of a facility that serves both residential and commercial markets across the continent, you'll be driving manufacturing excellence while fostering a culture where safety, quality, and environmental stewardship aren't just metrics—they're values that define how an industry leader operates.
Your leadership will influence not just production schedules and efficiency metrics, but the very standards by which roofing materials are manufactured. In a union environment that values collaboration and mutual respect, you'll be building bridges between traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, creating a workplace where 125+ skilled professionals don't just do their jobs—they take pride in protecting the places where people live, work, and build their futures.
Ready to transform an industry? Connect with IKO's opportunity here.
2. EWP Truss Designer at Star Building Materials (Nisku, AB)
In the world of structural engineering, few roles combine creative problem-solving with precision engineering quite like truss design. Star Building Materials, with over 40 years of excellence in engineered wood products, seeks a designer who understands that every line drawn and every calculation made literally supports the dreams people build.
The Craft: As an EWP Truss Designer, you'll be creating the invisible architecture that makes modern construction possible. Working with light metal plate connected wood trusses, prefabricated wood I-joists, and structural composite lumber, you'll translate architectural visions into structural realities that can bear the weight of entire buildings.
Daily Innovation Includes:
- Structural Artistry: Designing roof and floor trusses that balance engineering precision with cost efficiency
- 3D Visualization: Using advanced CAD software to model complex structural systems
- Client Collaboration: Interpreting blueprints and working directly with architects and contractors
- Value Engineering: Identifying opportunities to optimize designs for both performance and economy
The Star Advantage:
- 40+ Years of Legacy: Work within an established leader in engineered wood products
- Modern Facility: 22,000 square foot production facility with cutting-edge technology
- Diverse Projects: From residential homes to commercial and agricultural buildings
- Growth Culture: Part of Qualico's commitment to professional development
Your Profile:
- Post-secondary education in Engineering, Architecture, or Drafting
- Minimum 1 year of construction industry design experience
- Proficiency in Mitek design software and Microsoft Office suite
- Valid driver's license and clean criminal record check
At Star Building Materials, the EWP Truss Designer role transcends traditional drafting and design work. This position places you at the intersection of architectural vision and structural reality, where every line you draw and every calculation you make becomes the invisible backbone that supports entire buildings. As a design architect working with over four decades of engineering excellence, you'll be translating creative concepts into structural solutions that must withstand both the test of time and the forces of nature.
Your designs won't just meet engineering standards—they'll optimize the balance between performance, cost efficiency, and constructability, ensuring that contractors can build with confidence while architects can dream without limits. Working within Qualico's collaborative environment and Star's 22,000 square foot modern facility, you'll be part of a legacy company that's actively shaping how Western Canada builds, from residential homes to complex commercial and agricultural structures.
Application Deadline: June 6, 2025. Start designing the future with Star Building Materials.
3. Kitchen Sales Support Specialist at Kent Building Supplies (Mount Pearl, NL)
In the intersection of design aspiration and practical construction, Kent Building Supplies has carved out a unique niche. As Atlantic Canada's largest retail building supply chain, they're seeking a Kitchen Sales Support Specialist who understands that helping someone design their dream kitchen is about much more than product knowledge—it's about understanding how spaces shape lives.
The Experience: This role goes far beyond traditional sales support. You'll be the bridge between customer vision and practical implementation, working alongside Kitchen Sales Representatives to transform ideas into installations. With Kent's 48 locations and comprehensive e-commerce platform, your influence extends across the entire Atlantic region.
Your Daily Impact:
- Customer Journey Management: Guiding customers from initial concept through final installation
- Relationship Building: Creating connections that result in repeat business and referrals
- Technical Expertise: Preparing detailed estimates and installation service agreements
- Problem Resolution: Turning challenges into opportunities for exceptional service
The Kent Ecosystem:
- Market Leadership: Part of Atlantic Canada's dominant building supply network
- Comprehensive Reach: 48 locations plus robust e-commerce presence
- Diverse Operations: Retail stores, truss manufacturing, and wholesale distribution
- Team of 3,700+: Extensive support network and career development opportunities
What You Bring:
- Strong foundation in customer service and relationship building
- Problem-solving capabilities in fast-paced environments
- Microsoft Office proficiency and adaptability to new software
- Knowledge of building materials and construction processes (preferred)
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
At Kent Building Supplies, the Kitchen Sales Support Specialist role transcends traditional retail support functions. This position places you at the heart of home transformation across Atlantic Canada, where you'll be the bridge between homeowners' dreams and the practical realities of kitchen renovation and construction. As part of the region's dominant building supply network with 48 locations and a comprehensive digital presence, you'll be influencing how thousands of Atlantic Canadian families experience their most important living spaces.
Your expertise will extend far beyond product knowledge and sales support—you'll be a trusted advisor helping customers navigate the complex journey from initial inspiration to final installation. Working within J.D. Irving's 140+ year legacy of building Atlantic Canada, you'll be part of a 3,700+ person team that doesn't just sell building materials, but actively shapes how communities grow, renovate, and improve their living standards. In an industry where your recommendations directly impact how families use their homes, every customer interaction becomes an opportunity to enhance quality of life.
J.D. Irving, Limited is committed to accessibility and inclusive hiring practices. Transform kitchens and careers with Kent Building Supplies.
4. Area Business Manager - Hardscapes at SiteOne Landscape Supply (Langley, BC)
SiteOne Landscape Supply isn't just North America's largest landscape distributor—they're the architects of outdoor transformation. Their Area Business Manager position for Hardscapes represents an opportunity to lead at the intersection of landscape design and business strategy, where your decisions directly impact how communities design and build their outdoor spaces.
The Leadership Scope: As Area Business Manager, you'll be orchestrating performance across multiple locations while championing the hardscape solutions that transform ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary landscapes. This role combines strategic business acumen with hands-on leadership in one of the industry's most dynamic segments.
Strategic Responsibilities:
- Team Excellence: Create high-performance environments that attract and retain top talent
- Customer Value: Achieve customer value excellence through superior product knowledge and service
- Performance Management: Drive results in safety, quality, service, and productivity across your area
- Continuous Improvement: Lead change initiatives and implement best practices
- Market Development: Build deep understanding of local competition and customer dynamics
The SiteOne Advantage:
- Market Leadership: Part of 800+ location network with aggressive expansion plans
- Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, RRSP matching, and advancement opportunities
- Industry Focus: Specialized expertise in hardscapes, irrigation, lighting, and landscape maintenance
- Growth Culture: "Stronger Together™" philosophy with emphasis on professional development
Your Leadership Profile:
- 4-7+ years in hardscape, natural stone, or building materials industry
- 4+ years of managerial experience with P&L responsibility
- Understanding of sales and operations planning processes
- Expert-level inventory management capabilities
- Degree in Business/Management or equivalent experience
At SiteOne, the Area Business Manager role transcends traditional retail management. You'll be shaping how landscapes are designed and built across British Columbia, while leading teams that turn outdoor visions into reality.
Most branches never work Sundays! Build landscapes and lead teams with SiteOne Landscape Supply.
5. District Sales Manager at MiTek (Surrey, BC)
MiTek didn't just invent the Gang-Nail plate in 1955—they revolutionized how the world builds. Now, as a Berkshire Hathaway company with nearly 6,000 team members worldwide, they're seeking a District Sales Manager for Western Canada who understands that selling building components isn't just about products—it's about enabling the future of construction.
The Territory: Based ideally in Edmonton (though other Western provinces will be considered), you'll manage relationships with key stakeholders across Western Canada's construction ecosystem. This isn't traditional sales management—you're a strategic advisor helping clients optimize their building processes through innovative technology and engineered solutions.
Strategic Responsibilities:
- Relationship Mastery: Develop and maintain strong client relationships while focusing on MiTek's strategic growth pillars
- Market Development: Prospect new accounts while protecting existing relationships
- Technical Consulting: Serve as business advisor on product knowledge, software features, and technical solutions
- Territory Growth: Execute sales plans that support company objectives and regional expansion
- Industry Leadership: Represent MiTek at trade shows and professional events
The MiTek Innovation:
- Platform Pioneer: Part of the company transforming building industry efficiency
- Technology Integration: Work with software, services, and automated solutions
- Market Position: Berkshire Hathaway backing with startup-level innovation
- Global Reach: Nearly 6,000 team members worldwide with continuous growth trajectory
Your Sales Excellence:
- Minimum 5 years in building products/construction industry sales
- Civil Engineering Technologist background or related post-secondary education
- Strong technical aptitude with structural loading and design knowledge
- Salesforce proficiency and advanced computer skills
- Ability to travel up to 50% within territory
The District Sales Manager role at MiTek represents the evolution of construction sales. You're not just selling products—you're enabling the industry's transformation toward more efficient, sustainable building methods.
Ready to transform how we build? Join the MiTek revolution in building innovation.
Why These Positions Matter
These aren't just job openings—they're invitations to join an industry revolution. The building materials sector stands at the confluence of sustainability mandates, technological innovation, and infrastructure necessity. Every role represents an opportunity to influence how we build, what we build with, and the environmental impact of construction.
From IKO's roofing innovations that protect millions to MiTek's structural solutions that make buildings safer and more efficient, these positions offer the rare combination of stability, growth potential, and meaningful impact. In an economy where many industries face uncertainty, building materials offers something increasingly valuable: the certainty that your work will always be needed and the excitement of an industry constantly evolving.
The career trajectories in building materials are particularly compelling. Plant managers often advance to regional operations roles. Sales professionals frequently transition to executive positions. Design specialists become technical leaders and consultants. The industry's complexity and diversity create multiple pathways for advancement, often within the same company.
The Future of Building Materials
The building materials industry is experiencing its most significant transformation since the industrial revolution. Smart building technologies, sustainable material innovations, and automated manufacturing processes are reshaping every aspect of how we construct our world.
Sustainability Leadership: Companies like those featured are leading the charge in sustainable building practices. From recycled content to energy-efficient manufacturing, the industry is actively reducing its environmental footprint while improving product performance.
Technology Integration: Advanced design software, automated manufacturing, and IoT-enabled products are transforming traditional construction materials into smart building components that can monitor their own performance and optimize building efficiency.
Market Expansion: With North American infrastructure aging and sustainable building mandates increasing, the building materials industry faces unprecedented demand for both replacement and innovation.
For professionals entering the field now, this transformation represents an opportunity to grow alongside an industry that's redefining itself. The skills you develop and the relationships you build will position you at the forefront of construction's future.
Your Next Steps
1. Assess Your Fit: Review the position requirements and consider how your experience aligns with these opportunities. Building materials values both industry experience and transferable skills from related fields.
2. Research the Companies: Deep-dive into each organization's culture, values, and growth trajectory. These companies are industry leaders for reasons that extend far beyond their product offerings.
3. Prepare Your Application: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience, emphasizing leadership, problem-solving, and customer relationship management skills.
4. Network Within the Industry: Attend construction trade shows, join professional associations, and connect with current professionals in building materials.
5. Consider Relocation: Several of these opportunities are in specific locations. Consider the lifestyle and career advantages of these markets.
6. Apply Strategically: Don't just submit applications—reach out to hiring managers, leverage LinkedIn connections, and demonstrate genuine interest in the company's mission.
The building materials industry offers something increasingly rare: career stability paired with innovation excitement. These five positions represent entry points into an industry that will continue growing and evolving for decades to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of jobs are available in the building materials industry? A: The building materials industry offers diverse career paths including plant management, engineering and design, sales and business development, technical support, quality control, supply chain management, and operations leadership. From entry-level positions to executive roles, the industry provides opportunities across multiple disciplines.
Q: How do I apply for a Plant Manager position in building materials? A: Plant Manager positions typically require engineering education (preferably mechanical) plus 8-10 years of manufacturing management experience. Focus on highlighting lean manufacturing expertise, safety management, team leadership in union environments, and any turnaround or performance improvement experience.
Q: What does an EWP Truss Designer do? A: EWP (Engineered Wood Products) Truss Designers create structural frameworks for roofs, ceilings, and walls using computer-aided design software. They interpret architectural plans, design load-bearing structures, optimize for cost efficiency, and ensure all designs meet building codes and engineering standards.
Q: What qualifications are needed for a Kitchen Sales Support Specialist role? A: These positions typically require strong customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, Microsoft Office proficiency, and excellent communication skills. Knowledge of building materials and construction processes is preferred but often provided through training.
Q: What skills are important for an Area Business Manager in construction materials? A: Key skills include 4+ years of management experience, P&L responsibility, inventory management expertise, sales and operations planning knowledge, team leadership capabilities, and understanding of construction industry dynamics.
Q: Are there entry-level positions in the building materials industry? A: Yes, many companies offer entry-level opportunities in sales support, production, quality control, and administrative roles. The industry values both experience and potential, often providing comprehensive training programs for motivated candidates.
Q: What career growth opportunities exist in building materials? A: The industry offers excellent advancement potential. Sales professionals can advance to district or regional management, plant supervisors can become operations directors, and designers often become technical specialists or engineering managers. Many companies promote from within.
Q: What are the benefits of working in the building materials industry? A: Benefits typically include competitive salaries, comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans with company matching, professional development opportunities, job stability, and the satisfaction of contributing to essential infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The building materials industry stands at a remarkable inflection point. As sustainable construction becomes mandated rather than optional, as smart building technologies reshape how we think about materials, and as infrastructure demands continue growing, the professionals who join this industry now will find themselves at the center of transformation.
These five positions—from IKO's transformational plant management role to MiTek's strategic district sales position—represent more than career opportunities. They're invitations to join companies that are actively shaping how we build tomorrow's world.
Whether your background is in manufacturing, sales, design, or business management, the building materials industry offers pathways that combine stability with innovation, competitive compensation with meaningful impact, and individual growth with industry leadership.
The question isn't whether the building materials industry will continue growing—it's whether you'll be part of that growth. These positions close quickly, and the best opportunities go to candidates who act decisively.
Your next career move is waiting. The only question is: are you ready to build your future?