If you're looking to jumpstart a career in masonry in San Jose, CA, you'll find growing opportunities in this specialized trade. The construction industry in Silicon Valley is projected to grow by 23.7% over the next decade, nearly twice the overall employment growth rate 1. As of March 2025, there were over 46 mason jobs available in San Jose, with hourly wages ranging from $27 to $60 2. To become a licensed mason in California, you typically need 4 years of journey-level experience and must obtain a C-29 Masonry Contractor License from the California State License Board (CSLB) 34. The financial investment ranges from $1,500 to $4,000+, covering application fees, exams, and other requirements 5678. In San Jose, average hourly pay for masons reaches $31.48, with specialized roles like brick masons earning an average total compensation of $141,654 annually 39.
Masons are skilled construction professionals who work with materials like brick, stone, concrete blocks, and other masonry units to build walls, foundations, walkways, and other structures. Their work is essential for both new construction and repair projects across residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
In San Jose, CA, masons often specialize in:
While some masons work independently once licensed, others start as laborers or apprentices learning under experienced professionals before becoming journey-level or master masons. For more details, visit the Northern California Cement Masons Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee (JATC).
Yes, in most cases you need licensing to work as a mason in San Jose, California. If you want to become an independent contractor or bid for projects over $500 in combined labor and material costs, you'll need a C-29 Masonry Contractor License 510 from the California State License Board (CSLB).
Projects under $1,000 total cost may be exempt from licensing 9. However, to build a serious career in masonry, obtaining your C-29 license is strongly recommended for greater opportunities and higher earning potential. Learn more about obtaining a license on the CSLB Guide.
In California, completing a registered apprenticeship program is one of the most effective paths to becoming a skilled mason. These programs typically last 2.5 to 4 years and include both classroom education and hands-on experience 1112.
Completing an apprenticeship provides the perfect foundation for your masonry career while helping you start building professional networks in the industry.
While not always mandatory, taking masonry courses gives you a solid foundation before beginning your apprenticeship. Programs often cover:
Apprenticeships provide a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training under experienced professionals. In California, programs typically last 2.5 to 4 years, depending on the number of training hours completed 1112.
During this time, you'll gain practical skills such as:
To qualify for a C-29 Masonry License, you must show 4 years of full-time experience within the last decade 7. This experience must be verified by qualified supervisors or employers and demonstrates skills in constructing load-bearing walls, installing stone veneers, and following building codes 7.
After gaining the necessary experience, submit a $450 license application to CSLB, including notarized experience verification 7. Once your application is approved, schedule your two required exams:
Prep courses from providers like @HomePrep ($240) or Contractors Intelligence School ($495) can help improve passage rates 67.
After passing the exams, you must secure a $25,000 surety bond to protect clients against defective work 510. If you have employees, a business owner must carry workers' compensation insurance 7.
Licenses expire every two years and require a $450 renewal fee as well as continuing education to stay current with regulatory changes and safety protocols 7.
| Phase | Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship | 2.5–4 years | Combines hands-on work and night classes1115 |
| CSLB Experience Verification | Varies | Requires documentation from qualified supervisors74 |
| License Application Review | 4–6 weeks | Delays may occur during peak periods716 |
| Exam Scheduling | 2–4 weeks | Based on test center availability717 |
| License Issuance | 4–6 weeks | Post-exam processing1816 |
Total timeline varies depending on apprenticeship duration and experience verification, but generally ranges from 3 to 6 years for apprenticeship-trained masons 71116.
| Cost | Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship Programs | $0–$1,200 | Often funded by the state or unions1115 |
| CSLB Application Fee | $450 | Non-refundable 7 |
| Examination Fees | $190 | $95 per exam (Law + Trade) 7 |
| Prep Courses | $240–$1,200 | Self-paced or in-person training 6 |
| Surety Bond | $250–$1,500/year | Annual fees vary by credit score 510 |
| OSHA Certification | $150–$180 | Mandatory for many employers 8 |
Total cost ranges from $1,500 to $4,000+, excluding apprenticeship tuition 5678.
The San Jose masonry job market remains strong, with Indeed listing around 38 masonry positions and ZipRecruiter showing about 50 job openings 39. The Northern California Cement Masons Joint Apprenticeship & Training Committee indicates that demand for well-trained cement masons has never been higher due to:
Key areas of demand include:
The masonry industry is also recognized as a "green trade" in sustainable construction, making it well-positioned for future growth 12.
| Job Type | Average Pay in San Jose |
|---|---|
| Journeyman Mason | $90,946/year 13 |
| Brick Masons | $141,654/year 9 |
| General Masonry Role | $31.48/hour 3 |
Specialization and additional certifications can significantly increase earning potential in the field.
Starting a career in masonry in San Jose, CA is an exciting opportunity to enter a skilled trade that's essential to the local construction industry. Whether you're finishing high school or considering a career change, following these steps will set you on the path to success in this critical industry. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in masonry will only continue to grow. Good luck on your journey, and be sure to check out Gild for apprenticeship opportunities near you!
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