Where to Find Bricklaying Jobs on Construction Sites

Bricklaying is a skilled trade with steady demand across the UK's construction industry. It's not just about your skill with bricks and mortar; knowing where to find jobs and how to prepare is key. Here's a simple guide to help you find bricklaying site work, build your experience, and grow your career.

Get the Right Qualifications First

Most construction sites require workers to have a valid CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card. For bricklayers, this usually means the Blue Skilled Worker Card. To get this, you need an NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Bricklaying and a pass in the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test.The NVQ Level 2 is the industry standard that verifies your bricklaying skills and assures employers that you can carry out tasks safely, efficiently, and to a professional standard on site.

You can earn this qualification through a full apprenticeship, a fast-track assessment if you already have experience, or an intensive course with on-site assessments. It's essential to aim for this qualification early because it not only opens doors to jobs but can also increase your pay.

If you want to know more about obtaining a CSCS card, check out our detailed article on Bricklayer CSCS Card. You can also explore the NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying course offered by Hurak to get qualified and site-ready quickly.

Start your training today with Hurak's NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying course.

Build Practical Experience Early

Qualifications matter, but hands-on experience is just as necessary. Try to get real site work during or after your training, even if it's unpaid or short-term. Many employers value practical skills and learning on the job as much as formal certification.

If you're new, you might need to start with labouring or site assistant roles. This helps you understand how a construction site operates and allows you to build trust with supervisors. Don't hesitate to accept these early roles; they're stepping stones to more skilled bricklaying work.

You can learn about the complete pathway into the trade in our article, How to Become a Bricklayer in the UK. Alongside bricklaying skills, consider additional courses like health and safety or manual handling through Hurak to strengthen your site readiness.

Be Proactive. Don't Wait for Job Ads

Waiting for bricklaying job adverts can slow your progress. Many bricklayers find work by directly contacting local builders, small contractors, or site supervisors, even if no jobs are officially advertised. Drop off your CV, send an email with free link tracking, or visit sites to introduce yourself. Being proactive shows initiative and can lead to trial work or referrals.

Build relationships with local building firms and subcontractors working on larger projects. The construction industry often relies on word of mouth, so these connections are valuable.

Use Job Boards and Online Platforms

Job boards list many construction roles every day. Popular sites like Indeed, TotalJobs, CV-Library, and Reed regularly post bricklaying site work. Use search terms like bricklaying site work, CSCS bricklayer, or construction bricklayer needed to find relevant listings. Set up alerts so you don't miss short-term contracts, especially during busy building seasons.

Specialist platforms like Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and MyJobQuote are also great places to build your trade profile and connect with local clients. Create a professional profile, upload photos of your work, and collect reviews to boost your reputation. Even small home projects can help you get noticed and gain confidence.

Register with Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies specialising in construction can speed up your job search. They often know about site vacancies before they're advertised and can place you in labouring or groundworking roles if you're just starting. Look for agencies like Hays Construction, Daniel Owen Ltd, Building Careers UK, or Randstad Trades & Labour. Increasingly, many employers and agencies are also adopting Diversity Recruiting Software to reach a wider pool of candidates and ensure fair opportunities for skilled workers from all backgrounds.

Typically, agencies will ask for your CSCS details, right to work proof, PPE, and references if you have them. Being registered means you get access to a range of site work opportunities across the UK.

Network with Other Tradespeople

Networking is a powerful tool in the construction industry. Join local trade Facebook groups, WhatsApp job boards, or attend trade events and site safety courses. Talk to other tradespeople and share job leads. Your next opportunity might come from someone you meet while buying tools or at a training session.

Accept Entry-Level Work While You Learn

If you're new to bricklaying, don't shy away from starting with labouring or site clean-up roles. These jobs may pay less but help you get a foot in the door, prove your reliability, and learn how sites operate. Supervisors often promote workers who show a good attitude and punctuality into bricklaying roles over time.

Keep Up with Training and Site Standards

Stay competitive by renewing your CSCS card and attending refresher courses on site safety and manual handling. If you're working but not yet fully qualified, ask about on-site NVQ assessments. These allow experienced workers to gain certification while on the job, often without the need for classroom time.

Upskilling can make a real difference. Explore our range of courses that can help you improve your knowledge and stand out on-site.

Conclusion

Bricklaying is a practical and rewarding trade, but getting your first few jobs takes more than just technical skill. Start by getting the right qualifications, especially your CSCS card and NVQ Level 2 Diploma. Then, be proactive and seek out experience by connecting with builders directly, exploring job boards, agencies, and networking groups. With the right mindset and support from training providers like Hurak, you'll be well on your way to a solid career in bricklaying.

Want More Than Just Labouring Work?

Earn qualifications on the job and increase your chances of securing consistent, higher-paying site contracts.

FAQ's

Can I work without a CSCS card?

Almost all legal construction sites require a CSCS card. Without it, your job options will be minimal.

What basic tools do I need?

A typical bricklaying toolkit includes trowels, levels, a bolster chisel, a tape measure, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Is bricklaying a seasonal job?

Work is usually busier in summer, but indoor projects and renovations continue year-round.

How much can I earn?

According to the UK government's National Careers Service, bricklayers typically earn between 25,000 at the entry level and 45,000 with experience annually. Based on a standard full-time working year (around 230 working days), that equates to approximately 110 to 200 per day, depending on your level of experience, location, and the complexity of work involved.