Are you considering a career in the masonry trade in Decatur, AL in 2025? With median annual pay for masonry workers in Alabama near $56,600 1, competitive entry-level wages ranging between $20 to $48 per hour depending on the employer 2, and steady job opportunities through industrial and local development projects, now is an excellent time to explore this physically demanding but rewarding trade.
Masonry work is a profession rooted both in craftsmanship and construction, where skilled workers build walls, partitions, and veneered structures. If you're interested in hands-on work, enjoy being outdoors, and thrive in physically active environments, masonry training could be the right step for you.
Like many in-demand trades, becoming a certified mason in Decatur involves meeting basic educational requirements followed by on-the-job training or apprenticeships. In Decatur, specific steps are tailored to the experience level of the worker, and while licensing isn’t required for every role, mastery of specific safety standards, construction quality requirements, and regional labor codes can enhance both employability and career longevity.
If you’re ready to begin, platforms like Gild offer access to a wide range of masonry apprenticeship and entry-level positions across Decatur.
Masonry in Decatur, AL consists primarily of brick and block masonry jobs that involve laying bricks, stones, blocks, and other materials using mortar to create structurally sound residential, commercial, and public infrastructure. Decatur’s local economy supports masonry trades through new construction and rehabilitation initiatives, making opportunities stable for those entering or already in the field.
Common responsibilities for masons in Decatur include:
This trade is particularly physical, requiring strength, stamina, and attention to detail. Entry-level workers often assist more experienced masons before rising through the ranks to become independent professionals.
To find available local masonry positions in Decatur, you could explore nearly 17 masonry job listings on job platforms like Indeed 3 or even check listings with average hourly wages ranging from $20 to $48 2.
Yes, you do need a masonry contractor's license to start your own business as a mason or supervise other workers in Alabama. However, if you're working under the supervision of a licensed and experienced mason, you don’t need your own license as an apprentice or entry-level worker.
Licensing is a crucial career step for more advanced roles such as starting a small contracting business or supervising a job site. To operate as a licensed masonry contractor in Alabama, pre-approval is required before taking the licensing exam. The licensing process includes:
While entry-level workers aren’t obligated to hold a license, undergoing formal training or apprenticeships helps individuals gain qualifications that make future licensing easier.
An apprenticeship is the most effective way to enter the masonry profession. This training model includes hands-on experience alongside classroom-based skill building to ensure apprentices develop both the practical and theoretical knowledge needed in their field. It is also an important step toward becoming a journeyman mason.
To find a masonry apprenticeship, consider the following resources:
To become a certified and licensed mason in Decatur, follow these structured steps:
To begin your masonry career in Decatur:
While not always mandatory, completing a masonry program can give you a solid foundation in industry-standard practices. Programs focus on topics like:
Local trade schools in Alabama, including specific programs connected to Coastal Alabama Community College, offer tailored coursework to give you an edge before entering an apprenticeship 5.
Starting an apprenticeship is essential to becoming a certified mason. Most masonry programs in Alabama run for 3 to 5 years, covering both field work under supervision and technical courses. Apprentices will gradually learn:
To start your apprenticeship:
After completing your apprenticeship, many masons aim for journeyman status, allowing them to work independently without direct supervision. For this certification, documenting a few complete projects under supervision or completing a state-approved program involving masonry tasks is essential.
Once you’re experienced and ready to manage your own business, you can pursue a masonry contractor's license.
The requirements include:
Despite slight declines in the masonry industry statewide, employment remains generally stable in Decatur thanks to local industrial and commercial development projects. Initiatives like the Summit Commercial Park by Rodan Development aim to construct modern industrial buildings, including warehouses, office spaces, and technical facilities—each of which relies on masonry workers.
City-led efforts like those from the Decatur Downtown Redevelopment Authority (DDRA) focus on renovating historic downtown structures and launching new affordable housing and cultural building projects. These often involve masonry for restoration, brickwork, and decorative surfaces, prompting ongoing demand for skilled workers 6.
Modern masonry in Decatur increasingly emphasizes energy-efficient materials, like 4,000 psi concrete flooring, as well as updated building safety regulations. This development trend can create opportunities for masons who are willing to specialize in green construction methods or stay current on local code changes.
While masonry jobs in Decatur are known for being physically challenging, they also carry competitive pay, especially for experienced workers. According to data:
| Job Level | Average Hourly Pay (in USD) | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level Mason | $20 to $48 | $41,600 - $99,840 |
| Journeyman Mason | $25 to $34.86 | $52,000 - $72,509 |
| Licensed Mason Contractor (Business Owner) | Varies (largely determined by business contracts) | High earning potential depending on project scope |
These figures are varied due to local market conditions, employer specifics, and any certifications or union membership 5.
As is typical for construction trades, masonry work brings potential safety concerns. The most common hazards in 2025 include:
Employers and experienced masons emphasize rigorous adherence to safety protocols, including the use of hard hats, gloves, and harness systems to minimize on-site dangers. Mentorship and well-structured apprenticeships can ensure workers learn practical safety standards before taking on solo tasks.
Whether you're inspired by the high earning potential, interested in the stability of construction jobs, or simply enjoy working with tangible materials, masonry offers a rewarding career. With training opportunities available and steady job demand present in Decatur in 2025, entering the trade now can lead to long-term success.
To get started, search for current masonry apprenticeship roles or entry-level jobs near you via platforms like Gild, and consider reaching out to local trade schools or unions to begin your journey.
Staying informed about employer requirements, local project developments, workplace safety measures, and licensing processes will help ensure your transition into masonry is smooth, well-structured, and financially rewarding.
Begin your future in masonry today—explore Decatur's growing construction landscape and find the hands-on career you’re looking for.
