A builder helps to construct, repair and renovate buildings. They read simple drawings, mix materials like cement and bricks, lay foundations, brickwork, plaster walls and fit parts such as doors and windows. Builders work on new homes, shops and public buildings, and often specialise in area like bricklaying, carpentry or plastering. It is a practical job that uses hands on skills, good teamwork and careful safety habits.
Starting salaries around 18 000 to 26 000 pounds per year; experienced builders can earn 30 000 to 45 000 pounds annually, with self employed earnings varying by jobs and location
There are tens of thousands of builders working across the UK, with steady demand in housing, renovations and public projects
Most builders work full time, with potential for overtime, early starts and occasional weekend work on busy projects
A young builder in training who helps with simple wooden projects under supervision and learns to use safe tools and follow plans
Helps mix mortar and pass bricks on a building site while learning about measurement and teamwork
Assists in a wood or metal workshop, learning how to cut, sand and assemble parts to build small projects
Find out what builders do on a day to day basis and what skills are useful.
Talk to a local builder or visit a builders yard. Watch simple videos about mixing cement, laying bricks and safe site rules. Understand that teamwork and following plans are important.
Learn about basic PPE and common tools used on site.
Learn why helmets, boots and gloves are needed. Identify tools like trowels, spirit levels and hammers. Practice handling tools under supervision in a classroom workshop.
Try small hands on tasks to build confidence.
With supervision, mix mortar, measure wood and assemble a small frame. This builds practical skills and helps you understand how projects start.
Pick a core area such as bricklaying or carpentry and learn simple techniques.
If bricklaying, practise laying bricks in a straight line with mortar. If carpentry, learn how to cut wood safely and fit simple frames. Work with a mentor to get steady hands and accuracy.
Work on a small project plan from start to finish.
Read a simple plan, estimate materials, and build something like a small frame or a brick section. Learn how to check measurements and keep the work tidy.
Understand how builders work together on a site.
Observe helpers, electricians and plumbers coordinating with the builder. Practice clear communication, asking for help when needed and keeping everyone safe.
Pick a suitable qualification to become a builder.
Consider a Level 1 or Level 2 Diploma in Construction or a pre apprenticeship. Talk to school career advisors or local colleges about courses that fit your interests in bricklaying or carpentry.
Look for a placement to gain real site experience.
Apprenticeships combine on the job training with classroom learning. You will earn while you learn and gain practical certificates that are recognised in the trade.
Keep a simple record of projects you help with.
Take photos, note tools used, methods, and safe practices. A small portfolio helps show future employers what you can do.
Start working with a building company or contractor.
You will learn on site under supervision, develop speed and accuracy, and understand site safety rules. Ask questions and observe good practices.
Continue learning new techniques and materials.
As you gain experience you may choose to specialise in bricklaying, carpentry, tiling or more complex structures. Additional certificates can help you progress.
Move toward leading small projects or running your own work.
With experience you can manage tasks, estimate materials, and supervise others on site. Stay safety minded and keep improving your craft.
A bricklayer specialises in building with bricks and blocks, laying the walls of houses and other structures.
A painter and decorator prepares surfaces and applies paint and finishes to improve the look and protection of buildings.
A carpenter works with wood to build or repair parts of structures, such as floors, doors and cupboards.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Builder. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A builder works on construction sites using practical trade skills to erect and finish structures. A construction site supervisor shares that on-site craft knowledge and materials understanding, but with added responsibility for coordinating trades, supervising safety, and ensuring project standards.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
Degrees that offer the chance to gain work experience through a year in industry placement or paid internship may give you an advantage when looking for work.
You'll usually need:
You could do a college course to move into site management. Relevant subjects include:
You normally need experience of working in construction or have a construction-related qualification to do these courses.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You can apply to do a Construction Site Supervisor Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This can take around 3 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time with a college or training provider.
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
If you're working in construction or civil engineering, for example as a senior tradesperson or surveying technician, you could move into a supervisory or management role through training and promotion.
You could join the Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate for professional development, industry news and useful resources.
You'll find more details about training and working in construction from Go Construct and House Building Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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