Bricklayer

Tasks & duties

Bricklayers may do some or all of the following:

• consult with clients 
• examine construction plans and follow the specifications 
• cut and shape bricks, blocks and tiles
• make up mortar mixture for placing between bricks 
• lay bricks, blocks or tiles in rows, designs or shapes
• put mortar between bricks and remove any excess mortar
• alter, repair and restore brickwork
• design and draw bricklaying plans 

Skills & knowledge

Bricklayers need to have:

• skill laying bricks, blocks or tiles according to a building plan
• knowledge of different bricklaying methods and materials
• the ability to interpret building plans and drawings
• basic maths skills to calculate measurements, quantities and costs
• skill using different bricklaying tools
• knowledge of the range of decorating styles their clients may request
• communication and listening skills 
• knowledge of health and safety requirements

 Bricklayers also need to be aware of their competitors' prices and services, and marketplace trends.

Entry requirements

To become a bricklayer you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Bricklaying. Apprentices train on the job with an employer and are supervised by a qualified bricklayer throughout their training. Their skills are assessed on the job and through attending block courses at polytechnic, and they must complete the required unit standards and 8,000 hours of practical work.

Secondary education

At least three years of secondary education is recommended. Useful subjects include woodwork, maths, technical drawing and English.

Tertiary education

Pre-apprenticeship bricklaying courses are available at polytechnics throughout New Zealand.

Registration

On 1 November 2008 the Department of Building and Housing introduced the first stage of the Licensed Building Practitioner Scheme for bricklayers. The scheme means that from November 2010, certain bricklaying work will need to be undertaken or supervised by a licensed bricklayer. To get a licence, bricklayers will have to prove their experience and/or have appropriate qualifications.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for bricklayers includes:

Related courses

Bricklaying and Stonemasonry
Building Construction Management
Ceiling, Wall and Floor Fixing

For more information, please refer to Career Services.