Mastic Asphalter

What does a mastic asphalter do?

As a mastic asphalter, you will be responsible for laying hot mastic asphalt on a range of surfaces. You could work for specialist contractors, either as staff or hired labour on a range of projects.

The role of a mastic asphalter involves the following duties: 

How to become a mastic asphalter

There are several routes to becoming a mastic asphalter. You could do a college course, an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.

You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions. 

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College/training provider

You may need to attend a specialist college or training provider to start your studies as a Mastic Asphalter. 

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice

Apprenticeship

You could complete an apprenticeship to become a mastic asphalter. You could train to become a roofer or road layer and then specialise in working with mastic asphalt.

You’ll need up to 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent to become an apprentice.

An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry. 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some basic experience as a roofer or road layer, you could apply directly to a construction company to gain onsite experience with mastic asphalt. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced mastic asphalter and progress as your abilities improve.

Your employer may assist you to gain professional qualifications from the Institute of Roofing, to help you progress in your career.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a mastic asphalter. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a mastic asphalter include: 

• Good level of physical fitness
• Problem-solving skills
• Understanding of health and safety
• Able to work quickly.

How much could you earn as a mastic asphalter?

The expected salary for a mastic asphalter varies as you become more experienced.

 • Newly trained mastic asphalters can start at £23,000

 • Trained with experience mastic asphalters can earn up to £49,000*

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. 

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources