What does a dryliner do on a UK site?

Dryliners install internal wall and ceiling systems: metal stud partitions, boarding (plasterboard), MF/suspended ceilings, insulation layers and finishing coordination. The exact scope depends on the package (fit-out, residential, modular, commercial).

How much do dryliners earn in the UK (gross)?

Rates vary by location and package. Many site roles advertise gross hourly pay in the low-to-high £20s, and day-rates can be used on some contracts. This page shows indicative gross ranges to set expectations, but each client confirms the final rate.

Yes. Practical English is important for safety briefings, permits, task coordination and incident reporting. You do not need perfect English, but you must communicate safely.

Can a non-UK candidate get sponsorship?

Sponsorship depends on the employer, occupation code, and salary rules. Some employers can sponsor, many cannot. Your CV and profile determine whether we can match you to roles where sponsorship is realistic.

What tools should a dryliner have?

Many sites expect basic hand tools for boarding/setting-out (knife, tape, chalk line, snips, levels) and proper PPE. Power tools, lifts, and specialist kit may be site-provided depending on the project.

Home / Jobs / United Kingdom / Dryliner / Drywall Installer

Updated: Pay type: Gross (brutto) Folder: /job/en/uk/

Dryliner (Dry Lining Fixer) / Drywall Installer in the United Kingdom

Q: Do I need a CSCS card?

Many UK construction sites require a valid CSCS card (or site-approved equivalent). The required level can differ by project; skilled roles often expect proof of competence and a safety test.

Install metal-stud partitions and MF ceilings, board accurately to drawings, and keep quality tight through snagging.

Construction & Trades Mid Sponsorship likelihood: Medium (indicative) Focus: Fit-out & interior systems

CV required: candidates without a CV are not considered.

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Work eligibility: non-UK candidates must have the right to work in the UK, or apply only for roles where sponsorship is possible (depends on employer, job code and salary rules).

Typical gross pay (indicative) £20–£27/hour • £180–£250/day

Site readiness CSCS + safe communication

CV screening standard Drawings + measurable output

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Quick fit check

CV in English: mandatory
Experience: Mid (productive on site, minimal supervision)
Communication: English for safety and coordination
Compliance: CSCS / site access rules may apply
Pay: gross (brutto); final terms depend on contract

Short candidate portrait

You can set out partitions/ceilings from drawings and keep tolerances.
You understand boarding patterns, fixings, and basic fire/acoustic requirements.
You work clean: protect finished areas, manage snags, and close tasks properly.
You show up site-ready: PPE, tools, and safe communication.

If you are unsure which UK role fits your profile, contact MaViAl and we will guide you to the closest match.

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Typical responsibilities (site-realistic)

Set out lines and levels for partitions/ceilings (lasers, tape, datum awareness).
Fix metal stud/track, form openings, and coordinate service zones where required.
Board walls/ceilings to spec (fire/moisture boards as required), correct fixing patterns.
Control quality: straighten edges, protect finishes, and resolve snags efficiently.
Work safely: PPE, housekeeping, manual handling, and reporting of hazards/incidents.

Requirements (detailed)

Final requirements are confirmed by the employer/site package.

CV in English (mandatory) describing projects, output, and tools/systems you used.
Proven drylining experience (commercial fit-out, residential, modular, or mixed packages).
Drawings & measurements: read plans, take-offs, and work to line/level targets.
Site access: CSCS or approved equivalent may be required for many projects.
Work eligibility: right to work in the UK, or eligibility for roles where sponsorship is possible.
English for safety: understand inductions, permits, and daily briefings.

Pay (gross / brutto) & common UK payment models

Model	Typical gross range*	Notes you should understand
Hourly (site rate)	£20–£27 / hour	Common for fit-out boarding and ceilings. Overtime rules depend on site and contract.
Day rate	£180–£250 / day	Used on some contracts or when output is predictable. Travel and parking are not always covered.
Price work (output-based)	Project dependent	Can outperform hourly if you are fast and the package is clean. Snags, access delays, and rework reduce earnings.

*Ranges are indicative gross (brutto) expectations for this occupation; each employer confirms final terms.

Working conditions in the UK (what candidates often miss)

Start times are early on many sites; punctuality is strictly enforced.
Safety culture is formal: inductions, PPE checks, housekeeping, and permit rules.
Productivity is measured: line/level accuracy, snag rate, and handover cleanliness.
Payroll model matters: some site work is paid under CIS arrangements; understand how gross pay becomes take-home.
Tools & PPE expectations vary: at minimum, arrive with core hand tools and correct PPE.

A practical “day on site” snapshot (unique role story)

On fast fit-out packages, dryliners are the trade that turns drawings into measurable geometry. The best installers do not just “board” — they set out clean lines, keep corners true, coordinate with MEP where clashes happen, and finish each area so follow-on trades can move without rework.

Morning: check drawings, confirm datum/levels, set out lines and openings.
Midday: fix stud/track, board high-risk areas first (fire/acoustic where specified).
End of shift: snag your own work, protect finishes, tidy and hand over progress.

Next step: Submit your CV via the CV page. We screen your profile against current UK demand, site access requirements, and the realistic pay model for your experience.

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How MaViAl handles applications (clear workflow)

CV intake: English CV is reviewed for systems, speed, and measurable output.
Fit check: we confirm the likely package (partitions, MF ceilings, boarding, finishing scope).
Compliance check: right-to-work route and site access expectations (where applicable).
Client screening: employer/site confirms rate, start date, and scope.
Onboarding: documents, site rules, and start coordination.

Important: this page is an occupation landing page and application gateway. Final job terms depend on the specific employer and project.

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FAQ (UK drylining — practical)

What tools should I have as a dryliner?

Many sites expect core hand tools (knife, tape, chalk line, snips, level), plus correct PPE. Power tools and access equipment may be site-provided depending on the package. Always confirm with the employer/project.

Do I need a CSCS card for drylining?

Many UK sites require CSCS (or an approved equivalent). The required card level depends on the project and the competency evidence expected. If you have qualifications and site experience, note them clearly in your CV.

What experience level is typically expected?

“Mid” usually means you can work productively with limited supervision: set out accurately, install partitions/ceilings cleanly, and manage your own snagging without repeated rework.

How do gross (brutto) rates translate to take-home pay?

Take-home depends on your contract type and deductions. Some construction roles are paid under CIS-style arrangements where deductions can apply to labour payments. Your final pay statement is determined by the payroll setup for that employer.

Is sponsorship available for non-UK dryliners?

Sometimes, but not always. Sponsorship depends on the employer’s licence, job classification rules, and salary criteria. Your CV helps us identify whether sponsorship is realistic for your profile.

What should my English CV include to pass screening?

Include project types (fit-out/residential/modular), systems (stud partitions, MF ceilings), measurable output (m²/day or tasks delivered), tools used, safety credentials, and any competence evidence.

What is the fastest way to be considered?

Upload a clear English CV, specify your availability date, confirm right-to-work status (or route), and list your core systems (partitions, ceilings, boarding, finishing scope).