Skilled Trades

Stonemason

SOC 47-2022.00 · ESCO 7113 · OSCA 371132

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Role snapshot

Overview

A Stonemason is a skilled craftsperson who cuts, shapes, and assembles natural or artificial stone for walls, floors, monuments, and decorative features. They use a variety of hand tools and machinery to achieve precise fits and durable constructions, often working from blueprints or design specifications to create aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound stone elements.

Creates durable, aesthetically pleasing, and historically significant structures and features that stand the test of time, contributing to architectural heritage and functional spaces.

On the job

  • Select and prepare natural or artificial stone for various projects
  • Cut, shape, and dress stone using hand tools (chisels, hammers) and power tools (saws, grinders)
  • Mix and apply mortar, grout, and other bonding agents
  • Lay stone units to construct or repair walls, foundations, floors, and decorative elements
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications to ensure accuracy and quality
Stonemason at work

Tools & technology

Stone hammersChiselsWet sawsAngle grindersLevelsPlumb bobsTrowelsSafety gear (gloves, goggles, respirators)

Average salary

$48K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$35K Bottom 10%
$65K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational training, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job experience is typically required. While not always mandatory, certifications can enhance career prospects.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Master Stonemason
Construction Foreman

CURRENT ROLE

Stonemason

Skilled Trades

ADJACENT MOVES

Restoration Specialist
Stone Carving Artist
Mason Apprentice
Construction Laborer
Bricklayer Apprentice

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RCA

Individuals who enjoy hands-on work, using tools and machinery to create tangible products, and appreciate precision and structure in their craft, often find satisfaction as a Stonemason.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Exhibits strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality, precise work that meets specifications.

Practical

Prefers hands-on tasks and tangible results, enjoying the process of building and repairing physical structures.

Patient

Able to work methodically and carefully, understanding that intricate stone work requires time and precision.

Focused

Can concentrate for extended periods on detailed tasks, blocking out distractions on a busy worksite.

Aesthetic eye

Possesses an appreciation for the visual appeal and proper placement of stone elements in a design.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy working with their hands and seeing the physical outcome of their labor.
  • Those who appreciate precision, craftsmanship, and the challenge of shaping natural materials.
  • People who thrive in an environment that combines physical activity with detailed, structured tasks.

Watch out for

  • The work can be physically demanding and often performed outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Requires meticulous attention to detail and patience, as mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to correct.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Stonemason — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Site Safety Briefing & Plan Review
Stone Selection and Initial Cutting
Foundation Laying / Wall Construction
Tue
Precise Stone Shaping for Features
Mortar Mixing and Stone Setting
Wed
Review Blueprints & Material Orders
Repair and Restoration Work
Tool Maintenance and Workshop Cleaning
Thu
Installation of Decorative Stone Elements
Client/Architect Site Walkthrough
Site Cleanup and Preparation for Next Day
Fri
Grouting and Finishing Work
Final Inspection and Quality Check
Weekly Team Debrief
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

FREE ASSESSMENT

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