Stonemason

Your Fit

Income

$52K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-5.9%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Stonemason?

A Stonemason is a skilled craftsman who shapes, installs, and repairs stone structures and surfaces. They work with various types of stone to create enduring and aesthetically pleasing architectural features.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Stonemason.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Stonemason earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$36K per year	$46K per year	$52K per year	$65K per year	$81K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $3.77K above the national average.

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What does a Stonemason do?

Work environment

Stonemasons typically work in outdoor construction sites, though some work may be indoors or in workshops. The job can be physically demanding, requiring the lifting of heavy stones and prolonged periods of standing, bending, and kneeling. Work conditions vary with the weather, and safety precautions are essential.

Quick task list

Cuts and shapes stones to the desired size and shape.
Lays out patterns and foundations for stone structures.
Installs stone exteriors or features on buildings.
Repairs and replaces damaged stone structures.
Collaborates with other construction professionals on design and construction.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Architectural Stonemasonry: Focusing on the aesthetic aspects, working on building facades and ornamental features.
Monumental Masonry: Specializing in creating and restoring stone monuments and memorials.
Landscape Stonemasonry: Building and repairing stone structures in outdoor settings like parks and gardens.
Conservation and Restoration Masonry: Working on the preservation and repair of historical stone buildings and structures.
Sculptural Stonemasonry: Crafting artistic pieces and sculptures from stone.

Description

Stonemasonry is an ancient and respected trade that combines artistic skill with manual labor. Stonemasons must have a keen eye for detail and design, as well as physical strength and endurance. They work with various tools, from traditional chisels and hammers to modern cutting and polishing equipment. Precision and accuracy are crucial in their work, as they often deal with expensive materials and intricate designs.

The job requires a deep understanding of different types of stone, including their properties and best uses. Stonemasons must also have knowledge of construction techniques and safety protocols. The ability to read and interpret blueprints and architectural drawings is essential. They often collaborate with architects, contractors, and other tradespeople to ensure that the stone work integrates seamlessly with the overall design of a project.

Stonemasonry is not just about new construction; it also involves the restoration and preservation of historic stone structures. This aspect of the work can be particularly rewarding, as it involves preserving a part of history. Whether working on a new building or restoring an ancient monument, stonemasons contribute lasting beauty and functionality to our built environment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Creating lasting and visually appealing structures.
The satisfaction of working with natural materials and mastering a traditional craft.
Seeing the tangible results of one's craftsmanship in finished structures.

You might make a good Stonemason if you are...

Physically fit and capable of handling heavy materials.
Detail-oriented, with a good eye for design and aesthetics.
Patient and meticulous in your work approach.
Interested in both the artistic and technical aspects of building.
Able to work independently as well as part of a team.

Pros:

High level of job satisfaction from creating enduring works.
Opportunities for creativity and artistic expression.
Variety in work settings and projects.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work.
May involve working in extreme weather conditions.
Some irregularity in employment, depending on construction cycles.

How to become a Stonemason

Typical education

Most stonemasons learn their trade through a combination of formal apprenticeships and on-the-job training, which can take 3-4 years. A high school diploma or equivalent is commonly required to enter an apprenticeship program.

High school preparation

Courses:

Art and design classes to develop an eye for aesthetics.
Shop or vocational training for basic skills in working with tools.
Mathematics, especially geometry, for understanding shapes and angles.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a sculpture or pottery club to gain experience in shaping materials.
Participating in construction or community service projects involving stone or masonry work.
Engaging in physical fitness activities to build the necessary strength and stamina.

Preparation after high school

Enrolling in a formal apprenticeship program with a focus on stonemasonry.
Taking courses in construction technology, drafting, or architectural design.
Seeking out workshops or short courses in specific stone working techniques or restoration practices.

More resources

Building Stone Institute - Offers resources and training for those interested in stonemasonry.
Masonry Contractors Association of America (MCAA) - Provides education, training, and certification for masonry professionals.
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) - Offers resources and educational programs related to the home building industry, including masonry.
Historic Preservation Education Foundation - Provides resources and training in the conservation of historic structures, including stone masonry.

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