Cement Mason

Job description

Cement masons prepare and repair concrete, including pouring and finishing slabs, steps, wall tops, curbs and gutters, sidewalks, and paving. They work with a variety of materials including terrazzo, magnasite, epoxy, polymer, and other plastic materials for topping repair and injection.

Working conditions

Most of the work requires substantial bending and heavy lifting and is performed outdoors. Job sites vary and workers may need to work far from home. There may be 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. In addition, they must provide proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent. Local apprenticeship committees may require additional qualifications.

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.