Bricklayer
Careers Explorer:
Build yourself a bright future as a ‘brickie’ who play a crucial role in the construction sector.
Overview
Bricklaying is a core component of the construction industry, particularly in the house building sector.
You’ll lay bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures, including chimney stacks.
Bricklayers can work across a range of sites including restoration projects, large commercial developments, new-build housing and home extensions.
Large construction projects will see you working as part of a team where you may work on a particular section of a building alongside fellow bricklayers and other tradesmen and women.
Top 5 Tasks
- Work from and understand plans and specifications
- Seal foundations with damp resistant materials
- Use a range of hand and power tools to cut and shape bricks
- Spread layers of mortar on foundations and bricks and check vertical and horizontal alignment
- Construct ornamental brickwork including arches.
Salary
Salaries for newly-trained Bricklayers can be in the region of £17,000 – £20,000.
Trained with experience Bricklayers can earn in the region of £20,000 – £30,000.
Senior or Master Bricklayers can earn in the region of £30,000 – £40,000.
Salaries typically depend on location, employer and level of responsibility.
Am I Suited?
- Keen eye for detail
- Team player
- Likes working outside
- Practical
- Physical
The Government has set a target to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s, which will create a lot of employment opportunities for Bricklayers.
Qualifications
There are no set qualifications to become a Bricklayer, but it helps to have GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C) in maths and English or equivalent.
You must also hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to work on a site.
