Bricklayer / Mason in the Netherlands
This page describes a typical Bricklayer / Mason role in the Netherlands. Openings are project-based and can be residential, commercial, or light industrial depending on the client. Non-EU candidates can apply; work authorization requirements depend on the employer and the assignment.
Snapshot
Role category: Construction & Trades
Work type: Project-based assignments (scope varies by site)
Typical gross pay: €17–€29/hour (indicative; see “Pay & rate factors”)
Hiring story (what this role usually looks like)
On many Dutch sites, masonry is planned tightly with logistics and quality checks. Teams are expected to work cleanly, keep lines consistent, and coordinate with scaffolding, insulation, and façade details. If you like measurable progress and tidy handover standards, you will fit well.
A quick “fit check”
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep consistent line, level, and joint finish under normal site pace
- understand basic set-out and can follow drawings / dimensions
- work safely around scaffolding, lifting, and active trades
- can collaborate (foreman, crane operator, material supply, QA checks)
- are comfortable with repetitive physical work and outdoor conditions
- can communicate basic site English for safety and coordination
This role is not for you if you…
- avoid physical work or cannot stand/kneel for extended periods
- struggle to follow site rules, PPE discipline, or quality checks
- need fully unstructured work without targets or sequencing
- cannot provide a CV (selection is not possible without it)
What you will do day-to-day
- lay bricks and blocks to line and level; check alignment frequently
- prepare and use mortar/adhesive systems as required by the project
- perform joint finishing / pointing where applicable
- read drawings, follow dimensions, and maintain tolerances
- coordinate material flow (pallets, mixes, cuts) with the site team
- keep the work area safe and clean; protect finished surfaces
Scope depends on site type: new build, façade brickwork, blockwork partitions, or repair/restoration.
Skills & requirements
Must-have
- trade experience as a bricklayer/mason (or strong assisting experience)
- quality mindset: straight courses, consistent joints, neat finishes
- reliable attendance and safe behavior on construction sites
- CV in English is required for review and selection
Nice-to-have
- VCA safety certificate (often requested; can be arranged/verified per project)
- experience with façade/facing brick and detailing
- ability to measure, cut, and manage corners/openings independently
- driver’s license (helps with some projects)
Physical demands & safety
- lifting and handling materials; frequent bending/kneeling
- working outdoors and in varying weather
- PPE discipline (helmet, safety shoes, gloves, eye protection as required)
- safe use of hand tools and awareness around moving equipment
Tools, materials & site standards
Tools and methods depend on the client and system. Many projects expect familiarity with standard masonry hand tools and disciplined finishing.
- basic masonry toolkit (trowels, levels, line blocks, jointers)
- mixing and handling mortar/adhesives; clean working practices
- measuring and marking; managing corners, openings, and reveals
- site standards: QA checks, tidy handover, and protection of finished work
Pay (gross) and what affects the rate
Indicative gross hourly range: €17–€29/hour. Final pay depends on classification/job level, proven experience, province, project complexity, and overtime/allowance rules.
- Experience & quality: independent set-out + consistent finish typically places you in higher brackets
- Location: rates can differ between provinces and project types
- Overtime/irregular hours: surcharges may apply depending on the assignment
- Deductions: taxes, insurance, and (if applicable) accommodation/transport arrangements are handled per contract
Schedule, overtime, and typical conditions
- Typical schedule: often 36–40 hours/week; project timetables can vary
- Overtime: may be available depending on deadlines and site planning
- Probation/starting period: common on new assignments (scope and terms depend on employer)
- Travel & accommodation: sometimes arranged for project workers; confirm after screening
- Safety: toolbox talks / site inductions are standard; follow site rules strictly
Documents & legal work basics (Netherlands)
Requirements depend on your nationality and the employer’s legal setup for the assignment. The points below reflect common, non-promissory baseline expectations.
- Identity: valid passport/ID
- CV: English preferred, with projects, duties, and years of experience
- Proof of skills: certificates, references, photos of work (if available)
- Safety: VCA is often requested on Dutch sites (project-dependent)
- Work authorization (non-EU): typically employer-specific (sponsored) permission/residence route; confirmed after screening
- Language: basic English for safety and coordination is expected on most sites
If you are hired through a Polish entity for work in the Netherlands, compliance requirements can involve posted-worker rules and employer-side registrations, depending on the contract model and assignment duration.
How to apply (CV required)
- Submit your CV (English preferred) and describe your masonry scope (brick, blockwork, pointing, repairs).
- We review experience and project fit (site type, pace, quality requirements).
- If shortlisted, we confirm assignment terms (location, start date, gross rate, schedule, and documents).
FAQ
Do I need a CV in English?
Yes. Selection is not possible without a CV. English is preferred because projects and safety processes are often documented in English.