Cement Masons Job Information

Cement Masons use concrete on many types of construction projects. Whether small jobs, such as patios and floors, huge dams or miles of roadway, cement masons place and finish concrete. They may also color concrete surfaces, expose aggregate (small stones) in walls and sidewalks, or fabricate concrete beams, columns and panels. In preparing a site for placing concrete, masons set the forms for holding the concrete to the desired pitch and depth and properly align them. They then direct the casting of the concrete and supervise laborers who use shovels or special tools to spread it. Masons then guide a straightedge back and forth across the top of the forms to “screed,” or level, the freshly placed concrete.

Must be at least 18 years old; must have a high school diploma or G.E.D. certificate; must be physically able to perform the work of the trade; applicants from Job Corps graduates (BAT Circular 74-5) shall be considered;  applicants accepted into the apprenticeship program will be subject to a drug test at the expense of the J.A.T.C. for the first test. Applicants will be required to sign a scholarship agreement if accepted into the program.

The applicants must present a state issued certificate of birth; must have valid driver’s license knowing he/she has reliable transportation; must be a legal resident of the United States; and must provide a high school transcript. A $20 cash or money order must be presented at time of application.

The apprenticeship program is a three year program. A minimum of 144 classroom hours per year is required, along with 1,200 work hours per year.

English, mathematics, mechanical drawing, and industrial technology classes.

Cement Masons work inside and out. Work may be somewhat seasonal. Because most finishing is done at floor level workers must bend and kneel a lot.

Must be able to lift heavy objects; must be able to work at high levels from ladders and scaffolds; and must be able to handle a large amount of bending and stretching.

Apprentices start at 70 percent of scale. Current wage rates are:

• $31.48/hr Base Wage, plus
• $9.00/hr Health and Welfare, Plus
• $18.94/hr Annuity and Pension.

(subject to change)