What does a brick mason do?

A brick mason lays bricks, concrete blocks, and other masonry units to create walls, arches, fireplaces, and structural elements. Work typically starts with reading plans, measuring and marking foundations, and mixing mortar to the right consistency. Precision and an eye for alignment and level are crucial: masons use plumb lines, levels, and trowels to ensure each course is true. Projects range from small repairs to large-scale construction, and many tasks require collaboration with carpenters, laborers, and site supervisors to meet construction timelines and safety standards.

How do you begin a bricklaying career?

Many bricklaying careers start with hands-on training through apprenticeships offered by trade unions, vocational schools, or contractor programs. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with classroom instruction in materials science, blueprint reading, and safety protocols. A typical entry path involves becoming a mason’s assistant, learning to mix mortar, set up scaffolding, and handle tools safely. Certification or completion of an apprenticeship can improve job prospects. Some regions also offer short vocational courses for specific skills such as restoration masonry or tuckpointing, which can be useful for specialization.

What skills are essential on construction sites?

On construction sites, technical skill must be paired with practical traits: physical stamina, attention to detail, and strong spatial reasoning. Brick masons must understand material properties—how different mortars behave and the effects of weather on curing—so work can be adapted to site conditions. Safety knowledge is mandatory: proper scaffolding use, fall protection, and safe handling of tools and heavy materials reduce injury risk. Communication skills help when coordinating with site crews and interpreting architectural plans. Problem-solving is also valued when adapting to unexpected site conditions or matching existing building fabric.

How does brickwork fit into building projects?

Brickwork is both structural and aesthetic. In many building projects, masons provide load-bearing walls, fire-resistant barriers, and durable exterior cladding. For restoration or heritage projects, masons match historical brick patterns and mortar color to retain original character. In modern building, brick can be combined with other materials like steel and concrete to achieve specific performance and design goals. Collaboration with architects and engineers is common to ensure that bricklaying meets thermal, moisture, and structural requirements throughout the building lifecycle.

What career paths and professional growth exist for masons?

Brick masons can advance to supervisory or specialist roles. Experienced masons often become foremen, site supervisors, or project managers overseeing crews and coordinating schedules. Specializations—such as restoration masonry, decorative brickwork, or precision stone setting—can command higher demand in certain markets. Some masons transition to self-employment, offering local services for repairs, custom building, or subcontracting on larger construction jobs. Membership in trade associations or unions can provide networking, access to training, and pathways to stable contracts or larger commercial projects.

Finding brick mason jobs and local services

When searching for brick mason jobs or skilled bricklaying services in your area, look for credible local contractors, trade union listings, and vocational school job boards. Verify experience by reviewing project portfolios and checking references for quality of building and adherence to codes. For building projects that require permits or structural work, ensure providers are licensed and insured. Local job sites and construction networks can also list openings for apprenticeships and skilled positions. Evaluating several providers or employers on experience, specialization, and project scope helps find the best match for either hiring or employment.

Brick masonry remains a foundational trade within construction, blending skilled handcraft with structural knowledge. For those drawn to tangible, long-lasting work, bricklaying offers varied opportunities across residential restoration to large commercial building projects. Continued learning and on-site experience build both expertise and career mobility in this durable, highly practical trade.