Cement masons/finishers construct, level and finish freshly poured concrete. They install, maintain and restore concrete structures such as foundations, floors, ceilings and walls, sidewalks, roads, patios and high-rise buildings. In this career, they can work with construction companies, cement and concrete contractors and manufacturers of precast concrete products, or can be self-employed.

You are handy with tools.

You have good physical fitness and stamina.

You work well in a team and on your own.

Responsibilities

  • Direct placement of concrete, check formwork and steel reinforcement materials
  • Install anchor bolts, steel plates, door sills and other fixtures
  • Level top surface concrete according to grade and depth specifications
  • Apply components to cure, waterproof and restore surfaces
  • Use equipment and hand and power tools to create finishes on concrete surfaces
  • Repair, resurface and replace worn or damaged sections of concrete structures

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Reading, communication, numeracy and problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Dexterity with tools and equipment
  • Stamina and good physical fitness
  • Hand-eye coordination
  • Spatial perception

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

Usually a combination of 3+ years of work experience in the trade, plus some high school, college or industry courses in cement finishing to be eligible for certification.

Apprenticeship Program: 2 to 4 years, includes technical training, on-the-job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

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Hourly Pay

$18 – $28/hr

Projected Construction Worker Retirements

~8,100 by 2029*

*BuildForce Canada

Did You Know?

Artistic skills and being physically able to balance, climb, crouch, crawl, kneel and lift heavy materials are advantages for cement masons. If you are an artist or an athlete, this may be a career for you!