What does a Mason / Bricklayer do overseas?
Builds and repairs walls and structures with bricks, blocks and stone, working to line and level.
Typical responsibilities
- Set out and lay bricks or blocks to line, level and plumb
- Mix mortar and apply it evenly
- Build corners, openings and reveals to drawing
- Cut masonry units to size
- Keep the work area tidy and materials stocked
What employers usually look for
- Proven bricklaying or blockwork experience
- Ability to work accurately from drawings or a set-out
- Able to work as part of a gang
Typical experience
2+ years laying brick or block
Helpful extras
- Experience with facing or decorative work
- Basic tool maintenance
Physical demands
Repetitive lifting and long periods standing outdoors.
Licences and certification
Check destination requirements for any licence, trade test or medical clearance.
A typical day
You set out the wall lines, mix mortar and lay bricks or blocks course by course, checking each course for level and plumb. You cut units to fit around openings, point the joints and clean the work. You follow the drawing for thickness, openings and bonding.
Questions you may be asked
Employers and recruiters often ask questions like these. There is no single right answer: be honest, give a real example from your own work and say plainly when you have not done something yet.
- How do you keep a wall straight and level as it rises?
- What is the right mortar mix for the job you are doing, and how do you know?
- How do you work safely on scaffolding?
Staying safe on the job
Protect your back when lifting blocks, wear gloves and eye protection when cutting, and use only scaffolding that has been inspected.
Where this role can lead
Skilled masons may lead a gang, become a foreman or specialise in stone, restoration or decorative work.
How EMIGRATLY works with this role
This page describes the role in general. Duties, pay and requirements are set by each employer and differ between destinations. EMIGRATLY is not a job board: after you register, a dedicated specialist reviews your profile and matches you against the exclusive employer contracts we hold, including ones that are not listed publicly.