Brickmasons and Blockmasons
Brickmasons and blockmasons lay and bind building materials like brick, concrete block, and tile with mortar to construct or repair walls, partitions, arches, and other structures. They work on construction sites, building exteriors, and infrastructure projects, often as part of larger construction teams.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against brickmasons and blockmasons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves measuring and marking wall layouts, mixing and applying mortar, laying bricks or blocks in even rows, checking alignment with levels and straightedges, and pointing joints between materials. Work takes place outdoors and on scaffolding at varying heights. Tasks require repetitive physical motion and close attention to detail to ensure structures are plumb, level, and properly sealed against weather.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
This work suits people who prefer hands-on, concrete tasks and like following established procedures and standards. You tend to be practical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with your hands in structured environments where quality and precision directly determine outcomes.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $84,880 | $95,220 | $98,810 | 1,040 |
| Massachusetts | $76,280 | $94,950 | $133,490 | 1,570 |
| Illinois | $62,450 | $89,980 | $102,260 | 2,490 |
| New York | $74,160 | $84,410 | $107,600 | 3,790 |
| Washington | $73,090 | $83,190 | $102,140 | 600 |
| Wisconsin | $61,550 | $80,120 | $96,970 | 1,050 |
| North Dakota | $57,500 | $79,940 | $82,350 | 150 |
| Oregon | $66,360 | $79,450 | $99,070 | 650 |
| Rhode Island | $57,130 | $79,280 | $107,970 | 220 |
| Hawaii | $47,450 | $79,250 | $90,940 | 120 |
| New Jersey | $61,550 | $77,010 | $103,700 | 520 |
| Indiana | $56,980 | $73,110 | $80,210 | 1,770 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Masonry Field Testing Technician — American Concrete Institute International
- Supervisor Certification (SCP) — International Masonry Institute
- Masonry — National Center for Construction Education and Research
- Structural Masonry Special Inspector — International Code Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against brickmasons and blockmasons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.