Stonemasons
Stonemasons are skilled craftspeople who build beautiful and durable structures using stone materials for walls, exteriors, and floors. They use precision tools like levels and plumbs to align structures perfectly, mix and apply mortar, cut stone to exact specifications, and polish surfaces to create stunning finishes. This hands-on career combines traditional craftsmanship with modern power tools and requires strong attention to detail, physical strength, and spatial reasoning skills. Many stonemasons learn through apprenticeships or vocational training and often work collaboratively on construction teams to create everything from residential patios to historic building restorations.
Did you know?
Stonemasons must be prepared for physically demanding work involving heavy lifting, prolonged standing, and exposure to dust and weather conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$56,200 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Critical Thinking
Things to consider
Apprenticeship and Skill Development
Entry into the profession typically requires completing a formal apprenticeship program or vocational training to master specialized techniques in stone cutting, carving, and installation.
Market Demand and Employment Opportunities
Employment prospects are tied to construction industry cycles and historic preservation projects, with opportunities varying significantly by geographic region and local building traditions.
Key responsibilities
Mix mortar or grout and pour or spread mortar or grout on marble slabs, stone, or foundation.
Remove wedges, fill joints between stones, finish joints between stones, using a trowel, and smooth the mortar to an attractive finish, using a tuck pointer.
Position mold along guidelines of wall, press mold in place, and remove mold and paper from wall.
Replace broken or missing masonry units in walls or floors.
Repair cracked or chipped areas of stone or marble, using blowtorch and mastic, and remove rough or defective spots from concrete, using power grinder or chisel and hammer.