Bricklayers build and repair walls, floors, arches, pavings, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, smokestacks and other structures. They work with materials such as brick, natural stone, manufactured stone, tiles, precast masonry panels, glass blocks, concrete blocks, light-weight insulated panels, other masonry units, insulation and membranes. They erect, install, maintain, repair and alter various masonry. The structures vary in complexity from a simple masonry walkway to an ornate exterior on a multi level building.
Bricklayers work on industrial, commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They may specialize in stone work, restoration work or ornamental work. They may also specialize in installing refractory brick in high-temperature boilers and furnaces, or installing refractory tile to line acid or corrosion resistant tanks and vessels.
Key attributes for people in this trade are manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude, the ability to problem solve and think sequentially, and the ability to work at heights. Bricklaying is physically demanding work and requires considerable effort in lifting heavy materials, climbing, bending, kneeling and working on scaffolding.
Most of the work is performed outdoors, exposing bricklayers to the elements. The winterization of job sites allows the work to continue year round. Construction safety and accident prevention is a priority.
This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of tilesetters, concrete finishers and carpenters.
Experienced bricklayers may advance to supervisory positions for masonry contractors or in other related fields such as construction management, estimating or building inspection.
-
The Canadian Nursing Students' Association
The Canadian Nursing Students Association (CNSA) is the voice of nursing students in Canada. For over thirty years, CNSA has represented the interests of nursing students to federal, provincial, and international governments and to other nursing and health care organizations. More >
-
Automotive Painter
Automotive painters work on the surfaces of motor vehicles, primarily in restoring vehicles to their original condition following damage and subsequent auto body repair. Generally, automotive painting begins when body work has been completed. Some of the duties that an automotive painter completes include: removing exterior trim and hardware; removing... More >
-
Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >
-
Carpenter
A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and... More >
-
WHAT ARE PRIVATE CAREER COLLEGES AND INSTITUTES REALLY LIKE?
Private career colleges are like people--each is unique. Yet, some generalizations can be made. 1. Private career colleges often specialize in several training areas. 2. Most colleges are located in the main business district of a city or town or in a nearby business area. Sometimes, these colleges are in... More >
-
Canadian Computing Competition
The Canadian Computing Competition (CCC) aims to benefit secondary school students with an interest in programming. It is an opportunity for students to test their ability in designing, understanding and implementing algorithms. Details are available in the full information brochure. More >
-
Transport Trailer Technician
Transport trailer technicians inspect, diagnose, maintain and repair transport trailers connected to or moved by a power unit. Trailers include flat decks, dry freight vans, refrigerated vans, tankers, converters, boosters, jeeps, pole trailers, steering dollies, dump trailers and any other commercial pull-type units. Transport trailer technicians inspect, service and repair... More >
-
Apprenticeship Completion Grant
The Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG) is a $2,000 taxable cash grant designed to encourage apprentices registered in a designated Red Seal trade to complete their apprenticeship program and receive their certification. Eligibility is retroactive to January 1, 2009. The completion grant will be offered to apprentices who complete their training,... More >