Career profile: Bricklaying

The construction sector offers a variety of roles, from engineering to stonemasonry. Jobs in construction could be right for you if you’re a practical person and are interested in how things work and are put together.

With construction skills in high demand, we’ve taken a closer look at the industry and one of the key jobs in the area.

What does a bricklayer do?
Builds and repairs walls, chimney stacks, tunnel linings and decorative stonework. They may also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects.

Salary:
• £15,000 to £30,000 average per year – working 38 to 42 hours per week.

Entry requirements:
• Some employers may expect you to have GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in maths and English.
• A Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
• Labouring or experience on a building site would be helpful.
• You could complete a college course, but this isn’t essential.
• You could get a bursary, if you want to work in heritage conservation.
• You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
• Go Construct – www.goconstruct.org has more information on becoming a bricklayer.

Working hours, patterns and environment:
• Usually work 39 hours a week, Monday to Friday.
• Possibility of overtime at weekends and in the evenings. Some jobs may involve working away from home.
• You’ll spend a lot of time outside in all-weather conditions.
• The work can be physically demanding and you’ll often be working at height on scaffolding.

Skills required:
• The ability to read plans.
• The ability to work in a well-organised and accurate way.
• A good level of fitness.
• Team-working skills.

Career path and progression:
With experience, you could become a construction site supervisor, or move into related areas like estimating or apprentice training. You could also specialise in decorative brickwork, stonemasonry, or set up your own business.

If you would like to have a chat with a Careers Adviser, please ring the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900.