Bricklayers Perth construct and repair walls with clay bricks, concrete blocks, and other materials. They use their skills, specialized equipment, and tools to mix and lay bricks in mortar/mud.
This role is male-dominated and has health and safety risks, as well as demanding physical and mental tasks. Individuals who pursue this career must have a good work ethic, attention to detail, and technical knowledge.
A bricklayer’s job requires a high level of skill. They need to know how to read blueprints and follow safety protocols. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with other members of the construction team. Having excellent attention to detail is another essential skill. This lets them lay bricks precisely, ensuring the finished structure is solid and visually appealing.
Bricklayers work in various settings, including residential homes and commercial buildings. They can also work on the restoration of historic structures. They may work for private companies/individuals or government agencies. They often travel to different sites and need a valid driver’s license.
To become a skilled bricklayer, you must complete a vocational training program or apprenticeship. These programs combine on-the-job training with classroom learning and let apprentices earn money while they learn. Vocational training programs are also available online, which can be a convenient option for those who cannot attend in-person classes.
In addition to technical knowledge and skills, a bricklayer must have good problem-solving abilities. They must be able to quickly solve any issues that arise on the job site and find solutions that work within time and budget constraints. They also need to be able to read and interpret blueprints and plans.
Depending on the type of project, bricklayers can be required to lift and carry heavy materials. They also need to be able to stand, squat, and crouch for extended periods. This can be tiring, especially if the work is done outdoors. Bricklayers must also be able to tolerate heat and cold weather.
A career as a bricklayer can be rewarding and challenging. It is a hands-on job that can be demanding, but it offers great job satisfaction as you see the results of your work. You can also progress to a supervisory role or specialize in stonemasonry. You can even take on projects that involve working near railway lines if you have a Personal Track Safety (PTS) card. Bricklayers also have the opportunity to work freelance, allowing them to be more flexible with their schedules.
Bricklayers are skilled tradespeople and are in high demand. The trade can be rewarding and lucrative, especially for those who have a good work ethic and take pride in their work. However, it can also be physically demanding and dangerous because the job requires working in a construction environment where safety measures must be taken.
Most bricklayers begin their careers with a formal apprenticeship, usually for about three to four years. This apprenticeship provides a mix of on-the-job experience and classroom learning under the supervision of a certified bricklayer, known as a journeyperson. Apprenticeships are available through local unions and construction firms and can lead to full-time employment upon graduation.
During their training, bricklayers learn how to read blueprints, understand different types of mortar mixtures, and work with various tools and equipment. They also learn about masonry systems and how to construct walls, partitions, free-standing piers and arches, and other structures made of brick or concrete blocks.
Once fully qualified, bricklayers can specialize in particular aspects of their craft. For example, some specialize in refractory bricklaying, which involves building and repairing furnaces and tanks for steel and other industries. Other bricklayers can specialize in repointing, which uses specialized joint-filling techniques to repair and restore damaged brickwork and masonry structures. Others can combine bricklaying with other specialized construction skills, such as stonemasonry or tiling.
Bricklayers also have the option of becoming a foreman or superintendent. This role often involves overseeing a crew of other bricklayers and providing them with instruction and guidance. It can also involve scheduling, budgeting, and other administrative duties. In addition, many bricklayers can find opportunities to travel, either locally or nationally, and can even work on short-term overseas contracts.
The career path of a bricklayer is flexible, and those with the right qualifications and skills can progress rapidly in this field. With experience, they can become a stonemason or move into other construction areas, such as contract management or estimating. They can join a professional or public body, federation, or association for industry recognition and support, CPD (continuing professional development), and networking events.
Bricklayers work on various projects, from building houses and walls to constructing chimneys and repairing decorative stonework. They also specialize in restoration projects. Prospective bricklayers must identify their long-term goals and choose a specialty that aligns with their interests and skills. Once they have chosen a specialization, they can chart a focused course for their career.
The ability to read blueprints and plans is critical for bricklayers. They must also know how to use construction tools like levels and plumb bobs. In addition, they need to be able to handle basic math. High school classes focusing on math, including algebra and geometry, help prepare for this job.
There are several routes to becoming a bricklayer, including vocational education and training courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. An apprenticeship combines classroom study with hands-on experience, allowing apprentices to earn money while learning the trade. It is also a great way to learn from experienced bricklayers and gain invaluable industry knowledge.
In addition to technical skills, bricklayers must have a strong work ethic and be able to communicate effectively. They must also be able to work independently and follow instructions. While this job is physically demanding, it can also be very satisfying. Bricklayers enjoy seeing the results of their hard work and often find job satisfaction as they progress through the ranks and increase their pay.
Bricklayers can often advance to supervisory or managerial roles with more experience. In some cases, they can even become contractors. Those interested in this career should consider joining professional and trade associations offering memberships, events, and networking opportunities. They can also provide advice on reputable training courses and offer industry resources.
The job outlook for bricklayers is promising as the construction industry grows. Employment in this occupation is expected to grow faster than the average for all careers through 2028. Several factors are driving this growth, including population and business growth. However, the job requires plenty of physical strength and stamina and the ability to work outdoors in harsh weather conditions. Bricklayers may also be required to stand on scaffolding for long periods. The majority of bricklayers work for foundation, structure, and building contractors. They earn an average annual salary of $75,990. In addition to their wages, they receive benefits such as paid holidays and life insurance. Some bricklayers also make overtime payments.
Some bricklayers choose to become union members. Union bricklayers typically earn higher wages than non-union workers. They also enjoy benefits such as vacation days, medical and hospitalization coverage, and pensions. However, it is important to note that the wage differential between union and non-union bricklayers varies by state and region.
Depending on their experience and skills, bricklayers can advance to other positions in the construction industry. They can become supervisors or inspectors. They can also become estimators, a position that computes project duration and cost of labor and materials. Bricklayers with additional training can even become project superintendents.
If a bricklayer wants to increase their salary, they can change employers or pursue further education. They can also improve their skill set and earn a reputation for excellence. Increasing their earning potential will help them achieve their career goals and improve their quality of life.
A good place to start is with a local contractor or bricklayer’s association. These organizations can connect you with a reputable apprenticeship program. Alternatively, you can find a bricklaying position through an online job site or newspaper ad. Regardless of the method you choose to obtain your apprenticeship, having excellent interpersonal skills and a strong desire to learn is important. Those with these qualities will have the best chance of thriving in this occupation.
