Four years ago, Emily Zaja joined Manteena as a receptionist. Since then, she has progressed into two different career pathways within the Manteena team and is now an up and coming Project Administrator working her way through the Cadet program.
How did you end up at Manteena?
I had been in casual roles in retail and childcare and was looking for a receptionist role. Manteena had advertised for a receptionist and office administration role which I applied for. I got the job and started in May 2019. In January 2021 I joined Manteena Security as a Bid Coordinator and decided I wanted to become more involved in project delivery. In May 2022 I moved into the Cadet program and that is where I still am today.
Why Project Administration?
I naturally took an interest to construction after being exposed through a family business. Working my way from a reception role to a more construction admin role was my goal.
I enjoy being a part of a team and working with experienced colleagues who have worked in the industry for years. I enjoy working closely with subcontractors and building relationships with them.
Being a part of a project, whether big or small, is extremely rewarding and there is nothing better than achieving program and budget at the end of a project.
How would you explain Manteena’s offering and approach?
Manteena has allowed me to be in multiple junior roles and to gain experience in both corporate, bid/tendering and project delivery. They have been supportive in my young career journey and helped me navigate to where I want to be.
What is it like to work at Manteena?
Manteena is a close-knit community which allows everyone work closely and collaboratively. We have a great team and really good leadership.
Did you always think this was an area you would end up working in?
Yes and no. I knew after finishing school I wanted to jump into an admin role not really knowing I would like construction as much as I do. When the opportunity came up to work at Manteena I thought this could be a great career path and that has been the case so far.
What would you tell anyone considering a career in Project Management/Construction space?
If you want job satisfaction and to be a part of an industry where you make a difference, then construction is for you. Project Administration is the best of both worlds, being able to be on site and also working in an office environment.
