Masonry trade careers in Austin, MN offer stable employment opportunities with competitive wages ranging from $18 to $25 per hour for masonry laborers and over $85,630 annually for experienced professionals 12. The construction and extraction sector in Minnesota is projected to grow by 9.3% from 2018 to 2028, creating 11,270 new jobs, while about 21,800 annual openings for masonry workers are expected nationwide due to replacements 34. Aspiring masons in Austin can enter the field through apprenticeship programs in nearby cities like St. Paul and New Hope, which provide structured training in bricklaying, concrete work, and plastering, among other specialties 56. This guide outlines the steps to becoming a mason in Austin, MN, including education requirements, training options, and career prospects through 2025.
Masons are skilled construction professionals who build structures using materials like brick, block, stone, and concrete. In Austin, MN, their work supports local projects such as infrastructure development, residential and commercial building construction, and industrial facility expansion. Masons may specialize in laying bricks, casting concrete, or restoring historic structures.
Key skills include precision in measuring and cutting materials, blueprint reading, and familiarity with tools like trowels, levels, and scaffolding. Physical stamina and attention to safety are essential due to the physically demanding nature of the work, which often involves lifting heavy materials and working at heights.
Unlike some other construction trades, masons in Minnesota generally do not require a statewide license to work, but completing an apprenticeship is the standard entry path 6. Employers often prioritize candidates with formal training and certifications from recognized unions like the Bricklayers and Allied Craftsworkers (BAC) 5.
To qualify for apprenticeship programs, applicants must typically:
Masons can earn journeyman and master certifications through unions, which open doors to higher-paying jobs and leadership roles.
Apprenticeships are the most common and effective way to become a mason in Austin, MN. These programs typically combine on-the-job training (OJT) with classroom instruction, lasting between 3-5 years.
Here are some available apprenticeship options and their typical durations:
| Apprenticeship Program | Length | Location |
|---|---|---|
| BAC Masonry Apprenticeship | 3 years | St. Paul, MN |
| Minnesota Cement Masons JATC | 4 years | New Brighton, MN |
| Plasterers Local 265 JATC | 4 years | New Brighton, MN |
To find an apprenticeship in Austin, MN:
Apprentices earn wages while they learn, with starting pay averaging $71 per week and increasing with experience and skill development 2.
To start in masonry, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be physically capable of performing demanding construction tasks 6. Coursework in math, geometry, and shop classes can provide a helpful foundation.
While not always mandatory, completing a pre-apprenticeship program or vocational courses in masonry can strengthen your skills and resume. Programs at schools or union training centers cover topics like:
Most aspiring masons in Austin qualify through union-sponsored apprenticeships such as:
Applications typically require submitting proof of education, passing an entrance exam, and undergoing a background check.
During your apprenticeship, you’ll complete hundreds of hours of classroom learning and 6,000–8,000 hours of on-the-job training under supervision. As a registered apprentice, you’ll master skills like:
Upon completion, you can earn a journeyman certification, which qualifies you to work independently or specialize further.
With experience, masons can pursue certifications in specialized areas such as:
Becoming a master mason or supervisor typically requires several additional years of experience and passing advanced exams.
Masonry in Austin, MN offers competitive compensation and advancement opportunities compared to other construction trades:
| Trade | Average Annual Salary in Minnesota | Potential for Advancement |
|---|---|---|
| Mason | $54,620 | Moderate to high |
| Electrician | $70,000–$80,000 | High |
| Plumber | $55,000–$70,000 | High |
| Construction Laborer | $20–$25 hourly | Low to moderate |
Apprentices start at an average of $71 per week, with wages increasing as they complete training milestones 2. Experienced masons can earn well over $85,630 per year, particularly those specializing in commercial or industrial projects 2.
Job growth in the masonry field is driven by demand for skilled laborers in construction projects like street reconstruction, data centers, and infrastructure development in Southeast Minnesota 89.
While Austin itself does not have a dedicated masonry school, there are several regional training options available:
Applicants can access these programs by contacting:
These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on experience, preparing apprentices for the journeyman certification exam.
The masonry job market in Austin, MN has evolved steadily over the past five years, supported by regional construction activity. Key trends shaping the sector through 2025 include:
While Austin-specific projections aren’t detailed, statewide trends indicate stable masonry job opportunities. The Minnesota labor market is expected to add 170,000 jobs statewide from 2020 to 2030, benefiting the construction sector 10.
The masonry trade in Austin, MN faces several challenges:
To address these challenges, masonry contractors and unions are focusing on workforce development and safety training initiatives to ensure long-term stability in the field.
Starting a career in masonry in Austin, MN presents opportunities for steady employment and competitive wages, especially as construction projects expand across Southeast Minnesota. Whether you're entering the trade or seeking advancement, apprenticeships and certifications provide clear pathways to success.
To begin your masonry career:
As you gain experience and build your credentials, your career opportunities in masonry will continue to grow. Check out Gild for apprenticeship opportunities near you.
https://www.indeed.com/q-construction-jobs-l-austin,-mn-jobs.html ↩
Masonry Jobs and Data in Austin, Minnesota | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/publications/review/august-2020/job-outlook-to-2028.jsp ↩
https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/workforce/bricklayer-apprenticeships ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9
https://www.dli.mn.gov/business/workforce/cement-mason-apprenticeships ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://masoncontractors.org/find-a-masonry-training-program/MN/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/publications/trends/march-2022/job-outlook.jsp ↩
