What Do Qualified Bricklayers Do?
As specified in its name, bricklayers lay bricks. Often focused on building residential and commercial chimneys, fireplaces, patios, walls and walkways. Bricklayers are also responsible for constructing brickwork, such as pre-cutting stone and concrete blocks in mortar. A standard bricklaying work week is 40 hours. However, depending on demands, bricklayers may be required to work overtime – as with many other jobs in the construction industry. Bricklayers regularly work outdoors on scaffolding, which could require licences in some states. Along with this, bricklayers must be physically fit to work for long periods in different weather conditions.
Other general duties of bricklayers include:
- Reading and working with detailed plans, blueprints, sketches or specifications
- Applying, spreading or removing mortar with a trowel
- Sealing foundations with damp-resistant materials
- Operating brick-cutting machines, power towels and other hand tools
- Measuring, calculating, restoring, painting, cleaning and repairing areas consisting of clay bricks, cement bricks, acid-resistant bricks or other materials
- Constructing arches and ornamental brickwork
- Using spirit levels and plumb lines to check alignment
How Do You Become a Bricklaying Apprentice?
The training to become a bricklaying apprentice generally takes around 3 to 4 years depending on your location. You can either search for a qualified employer that is willing to take on an apprentice or choose a training provider. Training providers include institutions such as TAFE or other Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). Usually, you can start a bricklaying apprenticeship as early as grade 10 in high school with passing grades in English and Mathematics. Having experience in the bricklaying industry is not required to start an apprenticeship, however, it is highly regarded. There are many opportunities when applying for a bricklayer apprenticeship, so it would be best to check the options available in your area and their specific requirements.
How Much Do Bricklaying Apprentices Earn?
On average, bricklaying apprentices earn $20.49 per hour. According to PayScale, these bricklaying wages can range from $15.15 to $23.58 per hour with an annual income of $30,896 to $61,072. Progressing from an apprentice to a qualified bricklayer can allow you a payment from $29.46 to $46.73 per hour.
