In California and anywhere else in the country, masonry workers leverage the power of bricks and concrete blocks to create beautiful structures such as walls, fences, and walkways. They also work with natural and artificial stones to achieve the same objectives.
Becoming a masonry worker requires a lot of training. But in California, it also requires getting familiar with a few necessary steps, including prerequisites, educational requirements, licensing requirements, and more.
If you’re an aspiring masonry worker in California, we have provided detailed guides on these issues below.
How to Become a Masonry Worker in California
The following are the steps required to begin a career as a masonry worker in California:
Have a High School Diploma or GED
Aspiring masonry workers in California are expected to fulfill a few basic requirements before starting their training. Sometimes, this includes being at least 17 years old, but most times, candidates are expected to have a high school diploma or a GED equivalent in its place.
Obtain Formal Training
The most important aspect of becoming a masonry worker is learning how to do the job. Usually, this training can be obtained on the job, at a formal training institution, or both.
Combining both forms of training is regarded as the best alternative because each has its perks.
Formal training, for instance, is notable for focusing on fundamental topics such as wall construction, blueprint reading, trade Mathematics, and mortar mixing, among others.
Candidates also leave with a degree and a strong resume.
Obtain Training On-the-Job
Just like formal training, obtaining training on the job for a prospective masonry worker also has its benefits. Apprenticeship training programs, for instance, offer a structured environment that concentrates on hands-on training while leaving room for classroom training.
Additionally, prospective masonry workers can also obtain training on the job by working as assistants for experienced masons for 1 to 2 years. This way, they learn in the real world, acquire expertise, and enjoy solid mentorships simultaneously.
Create your Resume
After their training, aspiring masonry workers in California can create resumes by listing their education and work experience. They may also include references and photos from previous jobs.
Consider Trades with Similar Paths:
Top Masonry Schools in California
The following are some of the best masonry programs in California:
San Diego College of Continuing Education
The first option on our list for aspiring masons in California to consider is the San Diego College of Continuing Education. The school offers training in fundamental masonry topics through real-life projects and activities.
Students learn about curing concrete slabs, carrying out shop mathematics, and implementing safety procedures.
Local CA Training Center
The Tile Marble and Terrazzo Local Training Center is another beautiful destination for high-quality masonry training in California. This apprenticeship program focuses on classroom instructions and hands-on training in various categories of masonry.
Students learn about tiling, terrazzo laying, and even marble finishes.
Masonry Industry Training Association
Lastly, aspiring masons in California may also consider studying at any of the Masonry Industry Training Association’s training centers. These apprenticeship programs provide a high level of training and great flexibility.
Classes occur just twice a week at night so that students can focus on other things during the day.
Explore Masonry Schools by City:
State Licensure and Certification Requirements
All masonry contractors in California are expected to have a C-29 masonry contractor license. This is by the California Code of Regulations Title 16, division 8, and article 3.
To obtain this license, candidates must pass the trade test and the law and business test. The trade test determines experience in the field, while the law and business test is designed to test a candidate’s business acumen.
As for certification, masons in California may choose to become certified to increase their employment potential. Some of the most common options include the Certified Bricklayer credential offered by the National Concrete Masonry Association, the Certified Masonry Technician credential provided by the International Masonry Institute and the Certified Masonry Inspector credential.
Salary and Job Outlook
Masonry workers in California earn an annual average salary of around $51,426, a whopping 21% higher than the national average for other states. Masons in the top ten percent of earners in the state can take home as high as $75,105 every year.
On the lower end, of course, those who fall into the bottom 10% of earners still take home an annual average salary of $35,212. Additionally, masons in California can earn as much as $6,855 in overtime.
Sorting strictly by location, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento are the highest-paying cities to be a mason in California, with annual average salaries of $73,624, $65,218, and $51,126 respectively.
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