Masonry & Brick Worker

Job description

Masonry workers use bricks, concrete, plaster, and natural and manmade stones to build structures. Concrete preparation and repair, including pouring and finishing all products that use concrete, are possible tasks. Materials other than concrete are often used by masons. These materials can include, but are not limited to, terrazzo, magnesite, epoxy, polymer and other plastics. Structures are often constructed using using brick, cement, cinderblocks, stone and marble. Masons may also use plaster or stucco to finish and/or repair interior walls and ceilings, other masonry, metal or wire.

Working conditions

Masonry workers are often outdoors in all types of weather, though some masonry work is also done indoors. They often need to lift heavy materials and stand, kneel or bend for long periods. Working on high-up scaffolding is not uncommon. Work areas are often dusty, dirty or muddy. Some job sites require travel far from one's home. Work can be seasonal and it is not uncommon to have intermittent periods of unemployment.

Length of apprenticeship

The apprenticeship lasts three years. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 144 related classroom hours the first year, 120 hours the second and third years of related classroom training and a total of 6,000 hours on-the-job training.

Minimum qualifications

Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Local apprenticeship committees may require additional qualifications such as proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent.

Wages

Beginning apprentices start at 50 percent of the journey-level wage. Upon successful completion of required related class work and on-the-job hours, wages increase usually every six months, until the journey-level rate is achieved.