Aptly
Careers · Construction and extraction

Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters

Helpers for masonry and tile work assist skilled masons and setters on construction sites by preparing materials, holding tools, and maintaining clean work areas. They work outdoors and indoors on residential and commercial building projects, learning trade skills while performing support tasks that keep projects running smoothly.

$47,550median pay, U.S., per year
$40,100–$57,980middle half earn
14Kemployed in the U.S.
High school diplomatypical education · 6% hold a bachelor’s or higher
LowAI exposure · AI tools touch only a small share of this work.
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A day in the work

A typical week involves mixing mortar and grout, carrying bricks or stone to work areas, holding materials steady while masons position them, and cleaning tools and equipment at day's end. Helpers may also prepare job sites, move supplies, and assist with simple tasks like spreading mortar or washing finished surfaces. Work follows the project schedule and seasonal weather patterns.

Who this work suits

Realistic
100Conventional
39Social
15Artistic
10Investigative
6Enterprising
0

Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.

You tend to prefer hands-on, practical work and follow established procedures and safety standards. You're reliable and detail-oriented, comfortable with physical labor and outdoor environments, and motivated to build skills in a trade while contributing to tangible construction results.

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

Critical ThinkingMonitoringCoordinationOperation and ControlTime ManagementActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingSpeaking

Knowledge areas

Building and ConstructionMechanicalDesignMathematics (knowledge)English LanguagePublic Safety and Security

Pay by state

Certifications people in this field hold

Training

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against helpers--brickmasons, blockmasons, stonemasons, and tile and marble setters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 47-3011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.