Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher

Position Title

Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher

Alternate Titles

Masonry worker

Job Description

Cement mason and concrete finishers place, pour, and finish concrete materials for construction projects.

Education and Training Description

Cement mason and concrete finishers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the occupation, some masons attend masonry programs in vocational schools. Masons can attend these programs independently or in conjunction with an apprenticeship. Masons typically learn the trade through apprenticeships and on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced masons. After completing an apprenticeship program, masons are considered journeypersons and can perform masonry tasks on their own.

After completing an apprenticeship program and becoming journey workers, masonry workers can advance to construction management positions such as a supervisor or superintendent. Journey workers can also advance within their union or become independent contractors.

Job Profile

In the hydropower industry, cement masons and concrete finishers use concrete—a mixture of cement, sand, gravel, and water—as the foundation for building floors, dams, and roads. They make concrete beams, columns, and panels necessary for hydropower plant construction. Throughout the process of pouring, leveling, and finishing concrete, cement masons use their knowledge of how conditions may affect concrete and take steps to prevent defects. Masonry workers may use supportive wire mesh in small cement construction jobs. On larger-scale jobs, they often work with iron and rebar workers to install a strong iron mesh that reinforces the concrete structures.

Cement mason and concrete finishers typically:

• Read blueprints or drawings to calculate materials needed
• Lay out patterns, forms, or foundations according to plans
• Align structures, using levels and plumbs
• Clean surfaces and inspect surfaces for pouring issues
• Applying sealing and hardening components
• Fill expansion joints with caulking materials
• Lay out and install rain screen water systems
• Monitor the effects of weather on the concrete curing process.

Job Skills

Cement mason and concrete finishers typically need:

• Ability to work at heights. Masonry workers often use scaffolding, so they should be comfortable working at heights.
• Dexterity. Masonry workers must be able to place cement blocks and other materials with precision.
• Hand-eye coordination. Masonry workers need to apply smooth, even layers of mortar; set blocks; and remove any excess before the mortar hardens.
• Physical stamina. Masonry workers must keep up a steady pace while setting blocks, and the constant lifting can be tiring.
• Physical strength. Masonry workers should be able to lift more than 50 pounds. They carry heavy tools, equipment, and other materials, such as bags of mortar and grout.

More Information

For more information on cement mason and concrete finisher, see:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Masonry Workers
• The International Masonry Institute offers pre-apprenticeship training programs for masonry and other construction trades.
• Concrete Finisher Job Description.

Resources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Masonry Workers