How to Get a Masonry Trade Job in Birmingham, AL in 2025

Are you ready to break into the masonry trade jobs industry in Birmingham, AL? The building blocks of a successful masonry career start with a high school diploma or equivalent, and physical readiness to handle demanding construction work ¹. By 2025, masons in Birmingham can expect hourly wages ranging from $21 to $36, with 21 masonry jobs readily available on platforms like Indeed ². For those pursuing contractor licensure, passing both a trade-specific masonry contractor exam and the Business & Law Exam for General Contractors is required ³. With the right training from organizations like the Construction Education Foundation of Alabama (CEFA) ⁴, this path can lead to long-term success in Birmingham's stable but evolving construction landscape.

Understand the Role of a Mason

Before diving into the steps toward becoming a licensed mason, it’s essential to understand what the role entails. Masons are skilled tradespeople who build and repair structures made from materials like brick, block, and stone. Their work is critical for creating durable and visually appealing features in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. From laying foundations to crafting architectural elements, masonry demands both creativity and practical expertise.

Do You Need a License or Certification?

While entry-level masonry work typically doesn’t require licensing, to operate as a licensed contractor and take on more ambitious projects, the State of Alabama mandates certification.

To obtain a masonry contractor license:

1. Pass a trade-specific masonry contractor exam covering topics like estimation, mortar formulation, and restoration ³.
2. Complete the Business & Law Exam for General Contractors administered by PSI ³.
3. Choose the appropriate license type:
   • Residential work: License by the Home Builders Licensure Board (unlimited, limited, or roofer types) ³
   • Non-residential work: Secured from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, with classifications for specialty sectors including masonry ³

The licensing threshold applies to construction projects valued at $10,000 or more for residential work and $50,000 or above for commercial ventures ³. With certification, you’ll unlock opportunities to compete for higher-value contracts and demonstrate professionalism in your craft.

Essential Skills for Success

To thrive in the trade, aspiring masons in Birmingham must develop a well-rounded skillset:

• Technical Skills:

  • Proficient in bricklaying, block laying, and stonework
  • Able to interpret blueprints accurately and calculate dimensions using geometry
  • Knowledge of foundational footings and masonry restoration ⁵

• Physical Abilities:

  • Endurance to work long hours in variable weather conditions
  • Strength to lift at least 50 pounds frequently
  • Hand-eye coordination for precision work ⁶

• Supplementary Qualities:

  • Attention to detail in executing designs
  • Problem-solving aptitude to adapt to project requirements quickly ⁴

Masonry Training and Apprenticeship Opportunities

For those starting out, formal training is a game-changer. Most masons in Alabama undergo 3 to 4-year apprenticeships, which combine rigorous on-the-job instruction with classroom learning ⁶. Two key institutions provide comprehensive support:

• Construction Education Foundation of Alabama (CEFA):

  • Located at 6700 Oporto-Madrid Blvd
  • Offers hands-on learning using the NCCER curriculum
  • Accredited by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (BAT) and State Apprenticeship Council (SAC)
  • Structured with 144 class hours and 2,000 on-the-job hours per year for a three-year program ⁴

• Academy of Craft Training (ACT):

  • Provides NCCER-aligned training accessible to high school students
  • Partners with local experts and businesses to bridge education and employment ⁷

By enrolling in an apprenticeship, you can gain a competitive edge while earning income early in your career.

Steps to Becoming a Licensed Mason in Birmingham, AL

If you’re ready to take the plunge, follow this clear path to establish your career:

1. Research Available Masonry Jobs

Start by exploring platforms like Indeed, SimplyHired, ZipRecruiter, and Jooble to find positions in Birmingham. Look for roles including Mason/Bricklayer, Stone Mason, or Construction Laborer—with approximately 21 general masonry jobs posted on average².

2. Acquire Necessary Skills and Certifications

Master foundational masonry techniques like bricklaying, waterproofing, and interpreting construction plans. Supplement your education with apprenticeships and certifications, as these are highly valued by employers ⁴.

3. Apply Strategically and Broadly

Submit well-crafted applications that highlight your masonry experience, certifications, and specialized skills (carpentry, welding, etc.). For example, companies like William Vaughan Company in Birmingham are often seeking qualified masons ⁷.

4. Prepare for Interviews and Hands-On Assessments

Brush up on discussing past projects and demonstrate knowledge of masonry tools and materials. Employers may test candidates with practical assessments to gauge proficiency in brick, block, and stone work ⁴.

5. Consider Employment and Compensation Preferences

Evaluate employment types—full-time, part-time, or seasonal—and assess wage expectations. As of 2025, masons in Alabama earn between $21 and $36 per hour, with competitive rates available on specialty projects ⁷.

6. Network and Follow Up

After applying, take the initiative to follow up with employers and build relationships within Birmingham's construction community. Strong references can make the difference in landing the job ⁷.

By taking these steps proactively, you can secure a stable and lucrative career in masonry and set yourself apart in Birmingham's growing market.

Masonry Job Market and Career Prospects

From 2020 to 2025, the demand for masonry jobs in Birmingham has remained steady to moderately strong, with opportunities across construction-related roles and a notable presence of specialized positions ². Data from January 2025 shows a 6.9% increase in cement shipments, signaling potential growth for masonry-focused sectors ⁴. Birmingham’s surrounding areas such as Bessemer/Fairfield and Outlying Jefferson County are seeing development activity, creating new opportunities for skilled tradespeople ⁷.

Though national trends predict little or no change, masonry remains a stable field with competitive compensation in Birmingham. Replacement positions will offer opportunities as experienced workers retire, ensuring consistent openings in both general and specialized masonry roles.

Challenges in the Masonry Trade

While Birmingham’s masonry field remains steady, certain challenges must be navigated:

• Industry Decline: Alabama's masonry market is projected to decrease annually, with a final value of $285.8 million by 2025 ⁶.
• Economic Pressure: Broader economic trends may limit investment in new construction, affecting job availability ⁴.
• Limited New Construction: Multifamily and residential builds are slowing, impacting demand for foundational masonry work ⁵.

To thrive, consider diversifying your skills (e.g., in renovation) or adopting technology like digital blueprints. Focusing on repair and restoration projects can also offer job security during downturns.

Your Next Steps

Breaking into the masonry trade in Birmingham, AL, is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the city’s evolving skyline while building a rewarding career. From securing your initial education and apprenticeship to obtaining your license and expanding into specialized roles, the path to success is clear. For aspiring apprentices, platforms like Gild can connect you to open masonry roles across Birmingham.

Ready to lay the foundation for your future? Start exploring available apprenticeships and masonry jobs today on Gild and take the first bricklaying step toward a thriving career in Birmingham’s construction industry.

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