Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Three-Quarter Bat • Brick Set • Break Joint

Story Pole

Term from Bricklaying industry explained for recruiters

A Story Pole is a basic but important measuring tool used in bricklaying and construction. It's essentially a long piece of wood or metal marked with measurements that shows where bricks, blocks, or other materials should be placed. Think of it like a life-size ruler that helps workers maintain consistent spacing and patterns. Bricklayers use it to plan their work and ensure each row (called a course) is level and properly spaced. It's similar to using a template or guide, and some people might call it a gauge rod or spacing rule. This tool helps maintain quality and speed up work by eliminating the need for constant measuring.

Examples in Resumes

Created and utilized Story Pole measurements for complex brick patterns on heritage building restoration

Trained junior bricklayers in proper Story Pole and Gauge Rod usage for consistent coursing

Successfully completed multi-story apartment complex using Story Pole technique for precise brick spacing

Typical job title: "Bricklayers"

Also try searching for:

Bricklayer Mason Brick Mason Stone Mason Construction Worker Masonry Worker

Where to Find Bricklayers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you use a story pole to train new bricklayers?

Expected Answer: A senior bricklayer should explain how they would demonstrate marking measurements, show proper usage for different patterns, and explain common mistakes to avoid. They should mention the importance of checking accuracy and maintaining consistency.

Q: How do you adapt story pole measurements for different brick sizes and patterns?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how to calculate and mark measurements for various brick sizes, allowing for mortar joints, and how to adjust for different patterns like Flemish or English bond.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when creating a story pole for a new project?

Expected Answer: Should mention measuring brick sizes, accounting for mortar joints, considering window and door openings, and explaining how they ensure accuracy in measurements.

Q: How do you use a story pole to maintain consistent coursing around corners?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of transferring measurements around corners, ensuring level courses, and maintaining proper spacing throughout the project.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a story pole and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a measuring tool used to ensure consistent brick spacing and level courses, and why this is important for quality brickwork.

Q: How do you mark a basic story pole?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of measuring and marking brick courses, including mortar joints, and explain how to check measurements for accuracy.