Brick & Block Mason

About the role

Brick and block masons construct and repair structures made of brick, concrete block, and other masonry materials. They work on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, creating walls, foundations, chimneys, and decorative structures. This trade blends physical skill, craftsmanship, precision, and design sense, offering a durable and respected construction career for those who enjoy hands-on work and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Read blueprints and building plans to determine material layout
• Mix and spread mortar to bond materials
• Cut and shape brick or block to fit design specifications
• Lay bricks and blocks in precise rows and patterns
• Repair or replace damaged masonry
• Use levels, plumb lines, and trowels for accuracy

Skills and Traits

• Strong hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
• Ability to lift and position heavy materials safely
• Understanding of geometry and measurement
• Steady hands and stamina for repetitive tasks
• Precision, patience, and craftsmanship
• Familiarity with construction safety standards

Work Settings

• Residential and commercial construction projects
• Industrial facilities and restoration work
• Masonry and contracting companies
• Local government and infrastructure projects
• Independent contractor or small business settings

How to Become a Brick and Block Mason

It typically takes 3-4 years to work as a fully qualified mason through an apprenticeship or structured training program.

• Earn a High School Diploma or GED: Focus on classes like math, geometry, and shop to build skills needed for measuring, layout, and working with construction tools.
• Enroll in a Masonry or Construction Program: Trade schools and community colleges offer masonry programs that teach fundamentals of bricklaying, safety, and blueprint reading.
• Join an Apprenticeship Program: Apprenticeships, often sponsored by unions or contractor associations, combine classroom instruction with paid fieldwork over 3-4 years.
• Get Certified or Licensed (If Required): Some states or employers require safety or trade certifications such as OSHA-10 or journeyman-level credentials.
• Build Experience and Advance: With time, masons can work as lead installers, foremen, or start their own contracting business specializing in brick and block work.

Education and Training Paths

Pathway Typical Duration Outcome Certificate or Diploma Program 6-12 months Basic masonry skills Apprenticeship 3-4 years Journeyman-level proficiency Associate Degree 2 years Broader construction management knowledge Safety Certification (OSHA, NCCER) 1-3 months Workplace safety and compliance credentials

Career Growth and Advancement

With experience, brick and block masons can move into:

• Masonry Foreman or Crew Leader – supervises job sites and teams
• Estimator or Project Supervisor – manages costs and schedules
• Restoration Mason – specializes in historical or architectural repairs
• Independent Contractor – runs a private masonry business

Pay

Median pay (2025): $62,120 per year ($29.87/hour).

• 10th percentile: $44,820
• 25th percentile: $51,110
• 75th percentile: $79,350
• 90th percentile: $100,010

Top-paying states: Minnesota, Massachusetts, Illinois.

Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates for brick masons (2026) vary by state, with an average total compensation of $51.51/hour across 38 states. Highest rate: Massachusetts ($93.97/hour); lowest active rate: Texas ($18.00/hour).

Job Outlook

• Projected job growth (2024-2034): 3.1% (5,600 openings per year)
• Employment (2025): 52,550

Industry Organizations & Certifying Bodies

• International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC): Primary masonry union; runs the International Masonry Training and Education Foundation.
• Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA): Masonry contractor association.

Workplace Safety

BLS data (2023-2024) reports approximately 181.6 days-away, restricted, or transfer cases per 10,000 full-time-equivalent workers in brick and block masonry (about 1.82 per 100 FTE).

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Visible results and pride in craftsmanship
• High demand for skilled masons in construction
• Opportunities for self-employment
• Variety of projects and environments

Cons

• Physically demanding outdoor work
• Exposure to weather and jobsite conditions
• Precision and stamina required for repetitive tasks