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Masonry Apprentice Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Masonry Apprentice information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do masonry apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for masonry apprentice in Rochester, NY is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a mason apprentice?

To become a masonry apprentice, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a basic skills test. Apprenticeship programs, often sponsored by unions or trade associations, combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually last 3 to 4 years. A valid driver's license and physical fitness are also important for working in construction environments.

What Does a Masonry Apprentice Do?

The job duties of a masonry apprentice involve working alongside masonry professionals on bricklaying, cement, and stone installations. During a masonry apprenticeship, you receive on-the-job training in bricklaying and related trade skills. Your responsibilities vary with the project, but they usually involve working with brick and other prefabricated stone materials. You learn to use equipment associated with the mason trade, and you also get training in the techniques used to build brick walls or construct other stone structures and installations. Apprentices work under the direct supervision of professional masons or bricklayers.

How much do mason apprentices make?

Masonry apprentices typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the stage of their apprenticeship. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages generally increase, and they may also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off. Apprentices often work full-time hours in construction environments, learning skills like bricklaying, stonework, and concrete finishing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Masonry Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Masonry Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction math, physical stamina, and manual dexterity, often obtained through a high school diploma or a formal apprenticeship program. Familiarity with masonry tools such as trowels, levels, and mixing equipment, as well as safety certifications like OSHA 10, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong work ethic, and the ability to follow instructions are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for building safe, precise, and high-quality structures while learning effectively on the job.

What are some common challenges faced by Masonry Apprentices during their training?

Masonry Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of the job, mastering precise techniques for laying bricks and stones, and learning to work efficiently while maintaining high-quality workmanship. Weather conditions can also impact daily work, as masonry is frequently performed outdoors. Additionally, apprentices must quickly develop good communication skills to collaborate effectively with experienced masons and other construction team members. Overcoming these challenges helps build a strong foundation for future advancement in the trade.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Masonry apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their late 20s. Age is generally not a barrier, and many apprentices start later in life; the focus is on acquiring skills, safety, and completing required training hours. Employers value dedication and a willingness to learn regardless of age.

What are masonry apprentices?

Masonry apprentices are individuals who are learning the masonry trade through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. They work under the supervision of experienced masons to develop skills in laying bricks, blocks, and stones, mixing mortar, and reading blueprints. Apprenticeships typically last 3-4 years, after which the apprentice can become a journey-level mason. This pathway allows apprentices to earn while they learn, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the construction industry.

What is the difference between Masonry Apprentice vs Masonry Helper?

AspectMasonry ApprenticeMasonry Helper
CredentialsBasic OSHA safety training, on-the-job learningMinimal training, often no certifications required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, working with masonsAssisting masons, similar sites
Job RoleLearning masonry skills, performing basic tasksSupporting tasks, carrying materials

The main difference is that a Masonry Apprentice is actively learning and developing masonry skills, often with some formal or on-the-job training, while a Masonry Helper primarily assists experienced masons with basic tasks. Apprentices typically have more responsibilities and opportunities for skill development, making them a step closer to becoming a skilled mason.

How hard is it to get into masonry?

Getting into a masonry apprenticeship typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and physical fitness. Entry often involves completing an application, passing basic skills assessments, and sometimes attending an interview; prior experience or skills in construction can be helpful. Apprenticeships usually last 3-4 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
What are the most commonly searched types of Masonry jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Masonry jobs in Rochester, NY are:
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What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Masonry Apprentice jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Masonry Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Masonry Apprentice job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,698 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer

Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer

New York State

Rochester, NY

$50K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Trades Specialists (Mason & Plasterer) perform journey-level masonry and plastering work and may supervise others in the construction and repair of buildings and structures involving the use of a variety of masonry materials including brick, stone, plaster, and concrete. Lays building materials such as stone, brick, and concrete cinder block to construct or repair walls, partitions, utility manholes, firebrick linings in furnaces, and chimneys. Lays out work following blueprints and specifications by measuring distance from reference points and marking guidelines on working surface.

Mixes or directs the mixing of mortar. Spreads mortar on working surface and to block or stone and positions and aligns the block using a plumb bob, gauge line, and level. Removes excess mortar from face of block and finishes mortar between brick with pointing tool or trowel.

Smooths and finishes surfaces of poured concrete floors, walls, and sidewalks to specified texture. May mix or direct the mixing of concrete. Spreads concrete to specified depth and workable consistency.

Levels and smooths surface of freshly poured concrete using straightedge and float. Removes rough or defective spots and patches holes with fresh concrete. Applies ceramic tiles to walls, floors, and ceilings.

Prepares surface by removing damaged tiles or applies plaster or concrete base. Spreads adhesive base on surface. Cuts, shapes, and applies tiles to surface according to specifications.

Applies coats of plaster to walls and ceilings. Mixes or directs the mixing of plaster and the erection of scaffolds if needed. Removes broken or loose plaster and otherwise prepares surface.

Applies scratch coat of plaster. Applies finish coats of plaster to desired thickness and texture. May draw rough sketches or prepare plans to scale from oral or written instructions to accomplish the project.

From blueprints, specifications, or oral or written instructions, may estimate labor, materials, tools and equipment necessary for the project. Assembles materials, tools, and equipment required to complete the project according to plans. May supervise and instruct others in performing masonry and plastering work.

Assigns work to masonry crew. Gives verbal instructions, and/or demonstrates proper masonry or plaster techniques and the use of masonry and plastering tools and equipment. Observes and inspects the work while in progress and when completed to ensure that the job is done properly.

Requires daily travel within the 10 county district. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nys-office-for-people-with-developmental-disabilities/posts/?feedView=all #LI-KB1 Minimum Qualifications Non-competitive: Four years of full-time experience in masonry under a skilled tradesperson which would provide training equivalent to that given in a training, apprenticeship, or equivalent program; OR an equivalent combination of experience and training gained by completion of technical courses in masonry at a school, institute, or branch of the Armed Services; OR successful completion of the two-year Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer traineeship or a two-year masonry training, apprenticeship, or equivalent program* such as the New York State Civil Service Employees Association-Partnership Applied Skilled Trades Traineeship and Certificate Program. * Successful completion of the traineeship and the training program includes a total of 288 hours of trade-specific class room instruction, 45 hours of technical math course work, 45 hours of technical communications course work, and 15 hours of blueprint/schematic reading course work

Course work must be completed with an average of "C" or better. Additionally, successful completion of the traineeship also includes 4,000 hours of on-the-job training. When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.

Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer Trainee 1, NS (equivalent to SG-9): Full-time permanent service in a position allocated at Grade 12 or below which is primarily engaged in the performance of unskilled and/or semiskilled labor and trades tasks; must be 18 years of age or older; possess a High School diploma or general equivalency diploma recognized by the New York State Education Department; and be proficient in English and math. Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer Trainee 2, NS (equivalent to SG-11): Successful completion of a 52-week probationary period as a Trades Specialist Mason and Plasterer Trainee 1; OR completion of 45 hours of technical math coursework and 15 hours of blueprint reading/schematics coursework or passage of an equivalency exam or proof of successful completion of equivalent training, 144 hours of mason and plaster trade-specific instruction, and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Trainees must maintain a "C" or better average in their coursework.

When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated. Additional Comments Salary range listed below encompasses the hiring rate of a Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer Trainee 1 through the job rate of a Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer. Candidates hired at the trainee level will be advanced to the full performance Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer, SG-12 following successful completion of the traineeship.

Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer Trainee 1: $42,641 Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer Trainee 2: $47,695 Trades Specialist Mason & Plasterer: $50,425 - $61,548 For CSEA positions: Local Bidding Agreements will be honored. Preference will be given to OPWDD employees impacted by closures. If you are being impacted by closure, please indicate this on your resume.

All OPWDD employees must be eligible and maintain eligibility for full and unconditional participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Continued employment will depend on maintaining eligibility. If you are employed by state government you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments have been made under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. For more information on PSLF, please visit www.studentAid.gov/publicservice. Employees on long term leave can bid on positions but must be able to report to work within fourteen (14) days and be able to perform the essential functions of their positions with or without reasonable accommodation (RA)

If an employee or job applicant believes that they need a reasonable accommodation, they should contact the Reasonable Accommodation Unit at (518) 486-7222 or email accommodationrequests@opwdd.ny.gov to obtain information and RA forms. Savings programs such as the U.S. Savings Bond and the College Savings Plan

Voluntary pre-tax savings programs such as Health Care Spending Account and the Dependent Care Advantage Account offer employees options to pay for uncovered health care expenses or dependent care expenses. Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) an assessment and referral service that connects employees with local service providers and support services to address their personal needs. Life insurance and Disability insurance.

The New York State Deferred Compensation Plan is a voluntary retirement plan that offers employees the option to invest a part of their salaries for retirement on a tax-deferred basis. Paid Holidays and Leave: Thirteen (13) paid holidays each year. Thirteen (13) days of paid vacation leave initially.

Five (5) days paid personal leave each year. Thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave each year (PEF/CSEA), which may carry over from year to year. Up to three (3) days professional leave each year to participate in professional development events.

Health Care Coverage: Employees and their eligible dependents can choose from a variety of affordable health insurance programs. Employees are provided family dental and vision plans at no extra cost. Paid Parental Leave: Paid Parental Leave allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave at full pay for each qualifying event.

A qualifying event is defined as the birth of a child or placement of a child for adoption or foster care. Retirement Program: Participate in The NYS Employees' Retirement System (ERS), which is recognized as one of the best-managed and best-funded public retirement systems in the nation. Professional Development and Education and Training: NYS offers training programs and tuition assistance to eligible employees to maintain and increase their professional skills and prepare them for promotional opportunities.

For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/training-and-professional-development. Additionally, the Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) offers certain professional training opportunities for PEF represented and M/C designated employees that may grant continuing education credits towards maintaining professional licensure. For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/public-service-workshops-program-pswp

OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. We believe that we are most effective in managing and improving our service system with a diverse team of employees. With such a large workforce, we rely on the collective individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, self-expression, ideas and talent that our employees bring to their work.

This speaks to our culture and is a key part of our successes. As we continuously recruit people for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that applicants bring in terms of their education, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran's status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs. ***All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.*** Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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