Bricklayer
A bricklayer builds walls, structures, and other surfaces using bricks and mortar. They measure, cut, and lay bricks to create strong and durable frameworks.
On this profession page, you will learn:
Who is bricklayer
The stove maker focuses on creating and repairing stoves and fireplaces. He carefully selects materials and tools for production. First, the stove maker sketches a design to visualize the future structure. Then, he prepares the foundation, chooses the right type of bricks and mortar. Each step requires attention and skill. The stove maker skillfully layers bricks, lays bricks down, and monitors the drying of the mixture. He installs the flue, ensuring proper insulation, which affects the efficiency of the stove. With knowledge of physics and construction techniques, the stove maker ensures safe and effective operation. At the end of the work, he conducts tests of the completed stove, checking the flue and new structure. Each stove created by the stove maker fills homes with warmth and comfort.
AI impact on bricklayer
Minimal riskAI replacement risk
10%
You'll still be the one on site cutting and laying bricks by hand, because walls need to fit real spaces and hold up to weather and weight. Software might help pull a quick estimate or check a simple drawing, but the actual building stays in your hands. The tasks that stay are shaping bricks, mixing mortar, and making sure corners run true and joints hold. Your day will still mean kneeling, lifting, and eye-level work while you line up courses and tidy up as you go.
Tasks at risk of automation
- basic quantity take-offs
- simple drawing checks
Tasks that will remain human
- cutting and laying bricks
- mixing mortar
- setting out and checking corners
- fitting around openings
- site cleanup and tool care
Key skills of bricklayer
Work schedule and conditions
A baker usually works 8 hours a day. Days off are Sunday, often Saturday. Work takes place in a production setting. Remote work is not available. There may be special conditions, such as working at night or on holidays, depending on order requirements.
What a bricklayer does
- Preparing various types of bread and pastries.
- Monitoring the quality of ingredients used for baking.
- Planning production based on orders received.
- Dough mixing, shaping, and baking operations.
- Ensuring compliance with hygiene and safety regulations.
- Maintaining cleanliness of the workspace and equipment.
- Interacting with suppliers and managing inventory levels.
Benefits of the bricklayer profession
Creativity
Ability to implement personal ideas.
Culinary Skills
Development of professional cooking skills.
Teamwork
Collaboration with colleagues and other specialists.
Disadvantages of the bricklayer profession
Long Hours
Irregular work schedule and long shifts.
Physical Strain
Constant work on your feet.
Stress
High-pressure environment with tight deadlines.
How to become a bricklayer
You can become a bricklayer in the UK without a degree — it's a trade learned mainly on the job. Skill at laying bricks and blocks, working with mortar and reading drawings matter most. A college course, NVQ or apprenticeship provides the grounding, and a CSCS card is needed to work on site.
1. Apprenticeship
The fastest and most traditional route is a bricklaying apprenticeship with an employer. Working on real sites you learn bricklaying, blockwork and mortar mixing while earning, picking up the practical tricks of the trade.
2. College course or NVQ
A bricklaying course or NVQ Level 2 at an FE college gives systematic knowledge of bricklaying, materials and reading drawings. Training lasts from a few months to two years and provides a recognised qualification for employment.
3. Short courses
Short bricklaying courses cover the basics over a few weeks or months. They're best combined with hands-on practice, since the trade is mastered above all with your hands. A CSCS card is needed for site work.
The fastest route is an apprenticeship learning on real sites; a college course or NVQ adds useful theory, and a CSCS card gives site access. No separate licence is required. Your skill and reputation grow with the number of jobs you complete.