What Does a Cement Mason Do?
A Cement Mason is a vital part of the Structural Trades sector in the Construction industry. As a Cement Mason, you'll get to work with your hands, create lasting structures, and see the tangible results of your hard work.
In this job, you'll be working mostly outdoors on a variety of construction sites, ranging from small homes to large commercial buildings. You'll be around other construction professionals and using a bevy of tools and machines.
Your primary responsibility is to pour, level, and smooth concrete on a variety of surfaces. This includes floors, sidewalks, roads, and walls. You'll need to be able to read blueprints to understand where and how the concrete should be placed. Additionally, you'll be responsible for setting up and removing the forms that hold the concrete as it dries. Safety is a top priority in this job, so you'll need to take care while working.
A career as a Cement Mason is a fantastic option for those who enjoy physical work and like the challenge of creating sturdy, durable structures.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Cement Mixing
- Concrete Pouring
- Form Setting
- Smoothing and Finishing Surfaces
- Blueprint Reading
- Safe Equipment Operation
- Material Estimation
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Team Collaboration
- Physical Stamina
- Attention to Detail
Technical Skills
- Cement Mixing
- Concrete Pouring
- Form Setting
- Smoothing and Finishing Surfaces
- Blueprint Reading
- Safe Equipment Operation
- Material Estimation
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Team Collaboration
- Physical Stamina
- Attention to Detail
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education focusing on foundational knowledge and skills. Courses in mathematics, crafts or trade-based electives are helpful.
- Vocational Training or Coursework: Optional but recommended route to gather basic industry knowledge. Courses should cover safety measures, construction basics, and cement or concrete handling.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a registered apprenticeship, commonly 3-4 years, through a trade association or union. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training and classroom instruction, typically covering topics such as blueprint reading, mathematics, building codes, and safety.
- Journeyworker Certification: After successful completion of the apprenticeship, obtain journeyworker status. This requires passing practical and written exams to demonstrate mastery of skills.
- Continuing Education: Maintain and update skills and knowledge to remain proficient and to adhere to the latest building codes and regulations. These trainings are often provided by trade unions or employers.
- Certification: Although not a strict requirement, obtaining certifications related to cement masonry can enhance job prospects. Regional or state certifications may be required depending on the location and employers.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education focusing on foundational knowledge and skills. Courses in mathematics, crafts or trade-based electives are helpful.
- Vocational Training or Coursework: Optional but recommended route to gather basic industry knowledge. Courses should cover safety measures, construction basics, and cement or concrete handling.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a registered apprenticeship, commonly 3-4 years, through a trade association or union. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training and classroom instruction, typically covering topics such as blueprint reading, mathematics, building codes, and safety.
- Journeyworker Certification: After successful completion of the apprenticeship, obtain journeyworker status. This requires passing practical and written exams to demonstrate mastery of skills.
- Continuing Education: Maintain and update skills and knowledge to remain proficient and to adhere to the latest building codes and regulations. These trainings are often provided by trade unions or employers.
- Certification: Although not a strict requirement, obtaining certifications related to cement masonry can enhance job prospects. Regional or state certifications may be required depending on the location and employers.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states