Bricklayers lay bricks, pre-cut stone, concrete blocks and other types of building blocks in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures.
What do Bricklayers do?
A bricklayer may perform the following tasks:
- work from plans and specifications
- seal foundations with damp-resistant materials
- spread layers of mortar to serve as a base and binder for bricks, remove excess mortar, and check vertical and horizontal alignment
- use various tools and brick-cutting machines to cut and shape bricks
- construct arches and ornamental brickwork
- repair and maintain clay bricks, cement blocks/bricks and related structures
- erect scaffolding (subject to licence requirements in some states)
Small numbers of bricklayers may specialise in refractory work, where they build and line kilns and industrial furnaces; or in the repair of brickwork damaged by salt or damp.
Bricklayers work outdoors and may have to work at heights or in tunnels and shafts. They usually work in teams. Bricklayers may have some contact with the public
How do I become a Bricklayer?
To become a Bricklayer you usually have to complete an Apprenticeship in General Construction (Bricklaying/Blocklaying). Entry requirements may vary but employers generally require a minimum of Year 10.
Training is usually both on and off the job. The off-the-job training is provided through Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), including Group Training Companies. Details of the training may vary depending on the needs of the employer and are finalised as part of the training agreement.
Qualifying as a Bricklayer involves:
- Three to Four years commitment
- Attending paid work with a “host employer” for the duration of the apprenticeship
- Attending off-the-job training at an RTO
Ideal Personal Requirements to be a Bricklayer include:
- Enjoy practical work
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Technical aptitude in order to follow plans
- Able to work at heights and outdoors
- Physically fit and healthy
Bricklayer Profile Download a printable PDF version of this profile.