Career roadmap
How to Become a Brickmason
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a brickmason, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a brickmason: (1) finish high school, (2) start as a mason tender or helper, (3) enter an apprenticeship, (4) become a journeyworker, (5) advance. Most people need about 3–4 years (apprenticeship). BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a brickmason
Finish high school
Math, shop and physical fitness help.
Start as a mason tender or helper
Mix mortar, stock materials and learn the job site.
Enter an apprenticeship
Union and contractor programs last three to four years.
Become a journeyworker
Lay brick and block independently on all types of jobs.
Advance
Become a foreman, restoration specialist or masonry contractor.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical. Most brickmasons complete a three- to four-year apprenticeship that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction in blueprint reading, layout, math and safety. Some start in technical school masonry programs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Apprenticeship |
| Typical training time | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
Certifications and licenses
- Apprenticeship completion: Journeyworker status from a registered apprenticeship.
- OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Construction: Construction safety training.
- Scaffold user or competent person training: Training on safe scaffold use and inspection.
- Masonry certifications: Such as NCCER Masonry or the Mason Contractors Association of America’s credentials.
Skills to build now
Start with laying brick and block, mortar mixing, and reading plans and layout, and practice patience and precision and physical stamina. Learning the brickmason vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Mason Tender or Helper: Mix mortar and stock materials.
- Apprentice Brickmason: Learn layout, brick and block work.
- Journeyworker Mason or Restoration Specialist: Lay all types of masonry and repair historic work.
- Foreman or Masonry Contractor: Lead crews or run your own business.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Brickmason training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a brickmason?
Most apprenticeships take three to four years.
How long does it take to become a brickmason?
Most people need about 3–4 years (apprenticeship) of training. A high school diploma is typical. Most brickmasons complete a three- to four-year apprenticeship that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction in blueprint reading, layout, math and safety. Some start in technical school masonry programs.
Do you need a degree to be a brickmason?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus apprenticeship.
What certifications are available for brickmasons?
Common credentials include Apprenticeship completion, OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Construction, Scaffold user or competent person training, and Masonry certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-2021 (Brickmasons and blockmasons).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Brickmasons and blockmasons (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.