How to Become a Mason: Training, Wages & Outlook

Masonry is one of the oldest construction trades in the world and one of the most physically demanding. Masons build with brick, block, stone, and concrete — constructing walls, foundations, chimneys, patios, and facades that are built to last for generations. The work is visible, permanent, and skilled in ways that machines still can't replicate.

If you're strong, methodical, and take pride in craftsmanship, masonry offers a solid career with good pay and genuine job security. Here's what you need to know.

What Masons Do

Masonry work breaks down into several distinct specializations:

Bricklayers lay bricks in mortar to build walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and decorative facades. The work requires precision — every course must be level and plumb, with consistent mortar joints. Bricklaying is the most common masonry specialization and the most recognizable.

Block masons work with concrete masonry units (CMU) to build structural walls, foundations, and retaining walls. Block work is faster than brick and is the backbone of commercial and industrial construction. Most new masons start with block because it's the highest-volume work.

Stonemasons work with natural and manufactured stone for walls, veneers, patios, and decorative features. Stonemasonry is the most artistic branch — fitting irregular shapes together requires a strong eye and considerable experience. It's also the highest-paid masonry specialization.

Concrete masons (also called cement masons or finishers) pour and finish concrete for floors, sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. The work is fast-paced and time-sensitive — concrete doesn't wait. Finishing flat work is a distinct skill from laying brick or block.

Across all types, masons read blueprints, calculate material quantities, mix and apply mortar, cut materials to fit, and build structures that must withstand decades of weather, settling, and load.

Training Paths

Union Apprenticeship (BAC)

The International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) runs one of the most respected apprenticeship programs in the building trades. Programs are typically 3-4 years:

• Approximately 6,000 hours of on-the-job training
• Classroom and hands-on instruction at BAC training centers covering blueprint reading, layout, materials science, and safety
• Starting wages at 50-60% of the journeyman rate, with regular increases
• Health insurance and pension benefits typically included

First-year apprentices earn $16-21/hour depending on the local market. Journeyman masons earn $25-42/hour, with the highest rates in major metro areas and on union commercial projects.

Search masonry apprenticeships on SkillPlum.

Trade School (6-18 months)

Certificate programs in masonry teach brick and block laying, mortar mixing, blueprint reading, and safety fundamentals. Programs run 6-18 months at community colleges and trade schools, with tuition typically between $3,000-10,000.

Trade school gives you hands-on practice in a lower-pressure environment and makes you a stronger apprenticeship candidate. Some programs offer NCCER certification as part of the curriculum.

Compare masonry programs on SkillPlum.

Non-Union Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training

ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors) chapters offer masonry apprenticeships that are typically 3-4 years. Some masons also enter the trade by starting as laborers on masonry crews — mixing mortar, carrying materials, and setting up scaffolding — and gradually learning the craft on the job.

Certifications

• NCCER Masonry Certification — the National Center for Construction Education and Research offers tiered certifications (Levels 1-3) that are widely recognized by employers. Many apprenticeship programs include NCCER credentialing
• MCAA Certifications — the Mason Contractors Association of America offers certifications for masonry technicians and supervisors
• OSHA 10/30 — required on most commercial job sites. OSHA 10 is the baseline; OSHA 30 is expected for foremen and superintendents
• Scaffold Safety Certification — masonry involves significant scaffold work. A scaffold competent person certification is valuable for lead roles

Wages

Mason wages vary by specialization, location, and union status:

• Laborer / helper: $15-19/hour
• Apprentice (year 1): $16-21/hour
• Journeyman mason: $25-42/hour
• Foreman: $30-48/hour
• National median: roughly $24/hour ($49,000/year)

Union masons on commercial projects in major metro areas earn the highest rates. Stonemasons who specialize in custom residential or restoration work often command premium rates. Self-employed masonry contractors with established reputations can earn $70,000-120,000+ annually.

Masonry work often includes overtime during building season, especially in regions with short construction windows.

Job Outlook

The BLS projects modest growth for masons through 2032, but the real opportunity is in replacement demand. Masonry is one of the trades with the steepest age curve — many experienced masons are approaching retirement, and fewer young workers are entering the trade. This supply-demand imbalance favors new entrants.

Heritage restoration and historic preservation create steady demand for skilled masons who can match original brickwork and stonework. Energy-efficient building envelopes that use masonry for thermal mass are another growth area.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality craftsmanship — masonry work is visible and permanent
• Strong wages — especially for union and specialty masons
• Low competition for apprenticeship slots — fewer applicants than electrical or plumbing
• Path to self-employment — masonry contracting requires modest equipment investment
• Heritage restoration niche — specialized work that commands premium rates

Cons:

• Extremely physical — heavy lifting, bending, and kneeling take a toll over decades
• Weather exposure — outdoor work in heat, cold, wind, and rain
• Seasonal slowdowns — mortar can't be applied in freezing temperatures, limiting winter work in northern climates
• Hard on the body long-term — knees, back, and shoulders are the common wear points
• Slower pace of skill development — becoming truly proficient takes years of practice

Getting Started

1. Look into apprenticeships — search masonry apprenticeships on SkillPlum and contact your local BAC chapter about application timelines
2. Consider trade school — browse masonry programs for hands-on training that accelerates your learning curve
3. Start as a laborer — masonry crews always need laborers to mix mortar, carry block, and set scaffolding. It's the traditional entry point and lets you learn by watching skilled masons work
4. Get your OSHA 10 — this safety certification is required on most commercial job sites and signals to employers that you're serious
5. Build physical fitness — masonry is one of the most demanding trades. Core strength, grip strength, and endurance matter. Start building them before you start laying block

Explore masonry trade schools and apprenticeships on SkillPlum, or read our apprenticeship vs. college comparison to understand how a masonry career stacks up against a four-year degree.