If you're looking to begin a career in the masonry trade in Russellville, AL, there are approximately 49 to 73 construction-related job openings in the area as of 2025, with a steady demand for skilled workers across Alabama 12. The average hourly wage for masonry workers in Alabama ranges between $21 and $38, with potential earnings reaching $56,600 annually for experienced professionals 34. Masonry apprentices in Russellville typically earn around $900 per week, while experienced workers may earn over $1,600 weekly 4. To become a certified mason, you'll typically need to complete a registered apprenticeship program lasting 3-5 years, gain at least 4 years of experience, and obtain the appropriate contractor license from the Alabama Licensing Board 54. Russellville's demand is supported by large local projects such as the $50 million silica processing plant construction by MS Industries, driving regional job growth 4. Let's explore how you can enter this thriving trade in Russellville.
Before diving into your path as a mason, it’s essential to understand what the trade entails. Masonry involves the construction and repair of structures using durable materials such as brick, concrete blocks, and stone. Masons may work on diverse projects, including residential and commercial buildings, retaining walls, bridges, and industrial sites. Key responsibilities include:
In Russellville, masons often work with local contractors on infrastructure projects or contribute to specialized efforts like the $50 million silica processing plant construction, highlighting the diversity of opportunities in the local market 4.
To work as a self-employed masonry contractor in Alabama, you will need to obtain a license from the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors 3. While the state does not require a practice-specific masonry license, a general contractor's license is typically required to work independently on projects with a value exceeding $50,000 3.
Apprentice or employed masons working under supervision may not need individual licensing but should complete training programs that prepare them for skilled work. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed masonry apprenticeship programs through local educational institutions like the Wallace Community College masonry certificate program 54. Certification programs may also enhance job competitiveness.
To qualify for masonry positions in Russellville, AL, employers generally look for individuals with the following skills and experience:
For those new to the trade, entry-level opportunities may include serving as a masonry laborer or participating in an apprenticeship program, which offers a pathway to career advancement while building essential skills. In Alabama, masonry apprenticeships typically operate through programs like Go Build Alabama, which provides training and hands-on experience 4.
To become a licensed mason in Russellville, AL, completing a registered apprenticeship is one of the most effective pathways. Most programs involve:
During your apprenticeship, you’ll earn a wage between $19.96 and $36 per hour, increasing incrementally as you develop skills and gain experience 34. Apprentices also benefit from mentorship opportunities and direct exposure to real-world projects, such as the construction of the $50 million silica processing plant, which has created local demand for skilled masonry workers 4.
To find a masonry apprenticeship, consider reaching out to local organizations like the Go Build Alabama Program, or leverage job listing platforms such as Gild, which aggregates masonry apprenticeship openings in Russellville and across Alabama. Gild – Russellville Masonry Apprenticeships
Follow these clear steps to build your career as a certified mason in Russellville, AL:
You must:
Training is crucial for building foundational knowledge and skills. Consider the Wallace Community College masonry certificate program, which delivers coursework alongside hands-on lab experiences covering brick veneering, block laying, and concrete construction 35. For a comprehensive listing of programs, check the Go Build Alabama website.
Apprenticeships provide the ideal blend of practical and theoretical training. To start your journey in Russellville:
Apprentices typically earn around $900 weekly during training, gaining competence in masonry tasks before advancing with experience 4.
If you plan to operate your own business or work independently:
With experience, you can take on advanced positions, such as Journeyman Mason II or specialized stone mason. Many Russellville-based masons work on industrial or commercial projects, such as the construction of steel structures and storage silos 4.
Starting a masonry career in Russellville, AL, is an excellent opportunity to enter a trade with consistent demand and promising earnings. With the average masonry wage in the state ranging from $21 to $38 per hour 34, your earning potential increases as you gain experience and certifications.
As an apprentice beginner, you’ll likely start with an initial wage of around $19.96 per hour, building your expertise in positions such as Mason Technician or Mason Apprenticeship roles 54. By completing a full apprenticeship and earning certifications, you’ll unlock more advanced jobs, including independent-contractor opportunities.
To begin, search for masonry apprenticeship openings in Russellville today by exploring Gild’s masonry job board. Whether you're starting fresh or transitioning from another career, masonry offers stable full-time work and the satisfaction of creating lasting structures. Good luck on your journey into the masonry trade, and utilize Gild to find opportunities near you.
Russellville’s masonry job market by 2025 reflects a steady level of opportunity, driven primarily by expanding construction projects in the region. While Russellville maintains a modest number of construction openings—approximately 49 to 73 listed positions—masonry careers remain stable within the sector 12.
Key factors influencing local demand include:
In terms of career prospects, Alabama’s median annual masonry salary stands near $56,600, with competitive wages across the state 4. This makes masonry an attractive option for those seeking reliable full-time employment in Russellville with room for professional growth. As the market matures, job openings are expected to remain consistent, primarily due to turnover and retirement within the trade 5.
To thrive as a mason in Russellville, AL, developing and mastering certain skills and qualifications will enhance your competitiveness in the job market. Employers commonly seek candidates with the following:
Those entering the trade through apprenticeship programs gain a competitive advantage by building professional experience while earning wages. Completing a 3–5 year apprenticeship opens doors to journeyman or technician roles in Russellville, including specialized opportunities in stone masonry and industrial construction projects such as storage silos and steel structures 4.
| Key Masonry Skills and Qualifications |
|---|
| 4+ years of hands-on masonry experience |
| Ability to read blueprints and interpret construction plans |
| Strong knowledge of mortar mixing ratios and curing processes |
| Proficiency in working with diverse masonry materials (brick, stone, block, concrete) |
| Leadership abilities, if supervising junior masonry staff or apprentices |
| Understanding of project timelines, material sourcing, and budget constraints |
To begin building these skills, explore masonry apprenticeship and training programs through resources like William R. Byrd Technical College or fill in local labor gaps on platforms like LaborFinders and Gild.
https://www.indeed.com/q-construction-l-russellville,-al-jobs.html ↩ ↩2
https://www.examprep.org/contractors-license/seminars/alabama/alabama-masonry-contractor/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
How to Get a Masonry Job in Ozark, AL 2025 Career Guide | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12 ↩13 ↩14 ↩15 ↩16 ↩17 ↩18 ↩19 ↩20
https://careers.ua.edu/jobs/mason-ii-526574-tuscaloosa-alabama-united-states ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
