Placement Overview

This VIP typically has a variety of building projects on the go at any time including projects in France. Covers basic internal and extension work through to new build and barn conversions.

Generic Job Description for a Builder

Builders build the exterior and interior walls of buildings and houses. They also repair and renovate old walls and buildings.

Building and bricklaying is a skilled job. The task of building a wall involves cutting the bricks to shape, laying the bricks, spreading the mortar to hold the bricks together then checking that the wall is straight.

Builders often have to follow detailed plans of how the building should look.

Skills:

• Practical ability
• Physical fitness
• Good organisation
• Safety awareness
• The ability to work in a team
• A head for heights 

Pay:

• Entry from £15,000 dependant on qualifications
• A builder with high level Bricklaying qualifications may earn £18,000 or more
• Experienced builders £25,00 or more 

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Around 40 hours a week, Monday – Friday
• Evening and weekend overtime is usually available 

Environment:

• Builders generally work on building sites
• Work is outdoors in all weathers
• Building sites may be dirty and noisy

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• A range of vocational courses are available at most colleges
• A GCSE in maths, English or technology subject may be useful
• Apprenticeships are the usual route to becoming a builder

Training:

• Training usually involves a combination of work experience and college training
• All builders must be trained in Health and Safety 

Opportunities:

• There are 145,500 bricklayers in the UK
• The number of opportunities for builders is increasing

Links:

www.citb-constructionskills.co.uk/careers - CITB-Construction Skills

www.wamt.org - Women and Manual Trades