So you want to be a Bricky?

What does a Bricklayer actually do?

A bricklayer is responsible for building, repairing or decorating indoor or outdoor structures. Bricklayers use materials which include bricks, concrete, mortar, tiles, cement or granite blocks, to build homes, fireplaces, walls and so on.

Bricklayers work alongside clients, builders or project managers to establish what is required at the site and work off architectural drafts or plans.

What are some of the skills I would learn at BIGA?

At BIGA, we will equip you with the practical and theoretical skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful bricklayer. Some of the skills you will learn include:

  • Calculating materials required by interpreting drawings and blueprints
  • Building structures, measuring surfaces and use of various tools and materials
  • Knowing the properties of various mortars and applying this knowledge to construction
  • Cutting off excess materials and mortar to align structures to produce a neat finish

What does a Bricklayer apprenticeship involve?

At BIGA, we equip you with on-the-job training, conducted by experienced tradespeople on site and within the classroom.  This ensures you develop the technical and practical skills to be effective in your chosen trade. Number of years expected to complete your apprenticeship: 3 - 4 yrs.

What do I need to be a good Bricklayer?

  • Strength to move and work with heavy materials and tools
  • Ability to work at heights
  • A good sense of balance
  • A liking to manual work
  • Attention to detail

What working conditions can I expect?

  • Standard full-time 5 day working week with some overtime expected on weekends in order to complete certain projects
  • Mainly outdoor work
  • Employee or contract basis with some down-time during the year
  • Physically demanding manual labour/lifting
  • Employment has remained steady over the past 10 years with growth expected to slightly increase in 2010
  • Salary ranges between $18,000 - $60,000 plus with those on contract basis for larger firms earning even more
  • Most work occurs between 7 am and 4 pm, though length of working day is also dependant on weather conditions, daylight and project demands.

Benefits of BIGA:

  • Learn more about the apprenticeship and the job opportunities involved before making your decision on which apprenticeship to apply for
  • BIGA takes the time to get to know you, finding out your skill levels, abilities and particularly your interests to determine the best apprenticeship suited to you
  • A variety in apprenticeship offerings, means you are free to choose the one that appeals to you the most
  • Gain experience in a variety of different learning situations by working with a variety of qualified and licensed trades people
  • Our staff can offer guidance and support within the security of a large and well established organisation with significant experience in industry and apprenticeships