If you are looking for a job that encourages creative construction, then you may be looking to become a stonemason. Here are the steps to help you along the path to becoming a stonemason.

How to Become a Stonemason

$45,410
High School or GED
None
Apprenticeship
104,800
40%
41,800

Find Related CareersSOURCE: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

• The first step to become a stonemason is to finish your core education. Take the time to finish high school and look at the possibility of earning an associate’s degree. Some courses that you will want to focus in on includes English, math, mechanical drawings and even some kinds of shop classes.
• While you are finishing your education take the time to enroll in an apprenticeship. Your apprenticeship may include a time frame of three to four years working along side of other stonemasons. To complete an apprenticeship you may have to complete a set number of technical instructions and a set number of hours that you are paid for working as a stonemason.
• You will also want to take training that involves reading blueprints, math skill development, building codes and learning first-aid and safety practices.
• Once you have finished your apprenticeship path you are then considered to be a journey worker and are now able to branch out on your own as a stonemason. You can now pick what company to work for and what type of work in which you want to specialize.

Qualities You will Want to Work On

• As a stonemason you will want to be creative. This is where your artistic ability can shine. Depending on what your customer wants you will have to fashion the stone into an attractive piece of art.
• You will also need to learn how to pay attention to details. Stone requires that it be placed correctly so the surface must be prepared correctly. You may have to remove previous bonding material and lay new adhesive to fashion the stones in place.
• You will also need to know how to mix compounds and convert measurements so math knowledge is a plus as a stonemason.
• You will also need to be able to lift heavy weights. Stone is not light so you must know how to lift things correctly to avoid getting hurt.

What to Expect as a Stonemason

• Stonemasons can expect a median salary of around $45,410 and an average per hour wage of $21.83. Pay varies by job location and can higher or lower depending on where you live.
• Be ready to work with block and stone such as bricks and concrete blocks.
• Stonemasons must be able to stand for long periods of time and often work outdoors in dusty areas. You will have to wear certain safety devices such as helmets and gloves.
• The stonemason profession is set to grow over the next 10 years. The growth rate is estimated to be right at 40 percent. The more experience and education you have as a stonemason just means that you will have better jobs and more pay. You might even be able to move up into management at some point in your career.
• Your hours will vary from company to company but expect to work a full week with occasional overtime hours. Depending on the type of job you are working on you may have to work days or even nights. Some job assignments may require you to work in various weather conditions.