Fairhope, Alabama is experiencing a period of dynamic growth, and masonry careers are playing a pivotal role in shaping the built environment. As of 2025, masonry professionals are finding diverse opportunities in a field that offers competitive hourly wages ranging from $21 to $38, supported by both public infrastructure projects and private developments along the waterfront1.
For those just starting, entering the masonry trade typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on construction experience with formal instruction. This skill-based training can be obtained through programs starting as close as Coastal Alabama Community College and institutions like Wallace Community College, offering foundational masonry certificates that teach everything from brick work and stone veneer installation to concrete finishing and blueprint reading2. Visit Masonry Training Programs in AL for more options.
Whether you’re a high school graduate exploring blue-collar careers or an experienced laborer seeking professional advancement, Fairhope’s current masonry landscape is an attractive alternative for many reasons. In this guide, we’ll explore:
And much more. For detailed job listings, check ZipRecruiter for Mason Jobs in Alabama.
Before diving into the licensing and apprenticeship steps, it’s essential to understand what being a mason involves. Masons specialize in constructing and assembling structures using materials like brick, stone, concrete, and tile. These skilled tradespeople are heavily involved in both commercial and residential construction, as well as public infrastructure—from laying foundations to designing durable retaining walls and countertops3.
Fairhope’s current construction momentum, including projects like the South Beach Park Improvements, has increased demand for masons who can work on everything from modern commercial facades to timeless waterfront developments4. Learn more about local projects at Fairhope Community Resources. In many cases, Fairhope jobs blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, creating versatile opportunities for masonry professionals.
Unlike the plumbing or electrical trades that involve rigid licensing, there is no state-mandated licensing program in Alabama for general masonry2. However, employers and unions typically require masons to complete formal training programs, certifications, or union-based apprenticeships to demonstrate basic skills, safety knowledge, and competency working on specific construction projects.
For example:
While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all masonry license in Alabama, certification through recognized programs can significantly improve job prospects and wage opportunities, particularly in fields where complex materials and structural knowledge is required.
Apprenticeship timelines for masonry careers in Alabama typically follow a structured, four-year format that blends on-the-job field training with traditional classroom instruction7.
| Masonry Role | Length (In Months) |
|---|---|
| Brick Mason | 48 |
| Structural Masonry | 48 |
| Concrete Finishing | 48 |
Entry-level apprentices start with lighter manual roles like materials preparation and surface smoothing while studying building fundamentals such as math, mechanics, blueprint reading, and tool handling5.
To find apprenticeships in Fairhope and Baldwin County, prospective masons can take advantage of several local resources:
These approaches allow masonry apprentices to start building skills and professional network connections early in their careers.
To be accepted into most apprenticeship programs in Fairhope, you’ll need to meet certain baseline requirements:
In some cases, pre-apprenticeship programs may provide pathway options for those lacking formal education, particularly through vocational training in individual high schools or alternative certifications2. Check Made in Alabama Report for industry trends.
Although not mandatory, completing a structured masonry program before starting an apprenticeship makes trainees more attractive to employers and apprenticeship sponsors. Programs at Coastal Alabama Community College and Wallace Community College can help establish foundational skills in block laying, concrete mixing, and architectural masonry patterns before entering the field657.
Coastal Alabama’s Masonry Program includes 1,950 clock hours of training over three semesters, developing students into entry-level brick masons, concrete finishers, and apprentices eligible for advanced positions5.
Once accepted into a masonry apprenticeship, trainees start working on actual construction projects under the supervision of experienced journeymen and master masons. The work includes:
In addition to hands-on experience, programs typically require 144 hours of related classroom instruction per year of the apprenticeship6. See Indeed Salaries for Brick Masons for earning potential.
After completing approximately 48 months of apprenticeship, masons in Fairhope can apply to become journeyman masons, which allows for more independent work and potentially full-time hires on larger infrastructure and waterfront projects. Some unions and major contractors prefer to restrict more complex masonry jobs to certified journeyman or master masons6.
In some competitive markets, journeyman masons seek to differentiate themselves by earning Master Mason designations through the International Masonry Institute or specialized certifications in historical masonry restoration, terrazzo design, or even project management for stonework crews7. While not always mandatory, these skills can make a building professional highly desirable in higher-end residential and large-scale developments. For more on masonry salaries, visit ZipRecruiter Salaries.
Masonry salaries in Fairhope range from $21 to $38 per hour depending on experience and specialization. On average, Fairhope mason salaries fall near the $23 hourly mark, or $48,444 annually, particularly for brick masons working in coastal development zones6. Other masonry roles such as cement masons or concrete finishers average lower wages of around $18.03 per hour, or $37,510 per year, varying by contractor and project type5.
By contrast, master masons working under LSPM in Alabama earned an average of $36.05 per hour, well above the statewide average, highlighting the floor potential for career advancement in the field7.
Several factors impact earning potential:
Because Fairhope is growing at a pace ranked in the top 1% of U.S. metro areas for wage and salary growth, masons who invest in long-term careers are well-positioned for salary increases and promotions. Many masons progress into roles such as foremen, contractors, or even small business owners focused on residential brickwork or masonry design6. Reference the Made in Alabama Report for growth projections.
Whether you’re finishing high school or seeing an alternative construction career with a stronger wage outlook, Fairhope’s masonry scene offers real opportunity for those ready to start with apprenticeship and continue learning. The city’s waterfront construction, commercial revitalization, and home-building activity all contribute to a profession where skilled workers are in demand.
To take the next step:
Every masonry project starts with a single brick. Take the first step now, and set yourself up for years of professional success and community impact in Fairhope’s booming construction industry. For more resources, visit Masonry Training Programs and ZipRecruiter.
Not sure where to begin? Search for open masonry apprenticeships in Fairhope, AL
https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/alabama/masonry/15541/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://www.madeinalabama.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2024-New-Expanding-Industry-Announcements-Report.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://alconcrete.org/trendlines/trendlines-statewide-monthly-construction-data-april-2025/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.indeed.com/q-general-construction-l-fairhope,-al-jobs.html ↩
