Helpers for brickmasons, blockmasons, stonemasons, and tile and marble setters support skilled masons on construction sites. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school education. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You assist masons by handling and moving materials, inspecting equipment and structures, and performing general physical tasks on job sites. You help prepare work areas, move bricks, blocks, stone, and tile, and watch for quality and safety issues. You take direction from experienced masons and learn their techniques as you work. The role requires you to identify materials and problems, make decisions about how to help, and communicate clearly with your team. You work outdoors and indoors, often in all weather, and the pace is steady and physical.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Helpers--Brickmasons, Blockmasons, Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters earn a median of $47,550 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 11 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 1,400 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most helpers start with a high school diploma or equivalent and learn on the job. You will benefit from basic math skills and the ability to follow instructions carefully. Some employers prefer prior experience in construction or manual labor. As you work alongside experienced masons, you will develop knowledge of building and construction, design, and safety practices. Many helpers advance to apprenticeships or become masons themselves after gaining hands-on experience and demonstrating skill and reliability.
Entry routes include starting as a helper on a construction crew or through a union apprenticeship program. If you are deciding between different paths into masonry work, Pathly can map the helpers--brickmason, blockmason, stonemason, and tile and marble setter path that fits you and build a plan with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a helpers--brickmason, blockmason, stonemason, and tile and marble setter, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You are practical, hands-on, and comfortable with physical work. You notice details, solve problems as they come up, and work well as part of a team.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).