Wildwood, Florida, nestled in Sumter County, offers a promising environment for those considering masonry careers in 2025. With the construction sector showing consistent demand, the masonry trade provides competitive wages, long-term job security, and career growth opportunities. As of early 2025, platforms like ZipRecruiter list over 261 construction jobs in Wildwood [source 8], with dedicated masonry roles ranging from Mason Tenders to Experienced Blocklayers, offering weekly earnings between $1,495 and $2,800 [source 10]. The trade is accessible through state-sponsored apprenticeships lasting three to four years [source 2], combining classroom instruction (about 144 hours per year) with on-the-job training (approximately 1,500 hours annually) [source 4]. Licensing for contractors in Florida requires a Structural Masonry Specialty License, administered through the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, while entry-level masons can qualify through their apprenticeship completion [source 6]. To begin your masonry journey, explore apprenticeship listings on job platforms such as Gild and attend industry job fairs or local trade association events for direct access to employers.
Masonry involves the construction of structures using durable materials such as brick, concrete block, stone, and tile. Masons are essential to both residential and commercial developments, playing a critical role in building foundations, walls, walkways, and decorative features. In Wildwood, FL, masons are frequently employed by construction companies, home builders, and specialized masonry contractors, contributing to various projects including new residential and commercial buildings, renovations, and infrastructure upgrades. The trade demands not only technical construction knowledge but also physical endurance, precision, and adaptability, making it an ideal fit for those who enjoy hands-on, outdoor work environments. As technology such as robotic bricklaying systems and building information modeling tools becomes more common, new masons are encouraged to develop hybrid skills, adapting to both traditional craftsmanship and industry advancements.
In Florida, masonry work performed independently or as a business owner requires a contractor’s license. The Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) administers the Structural Masonry Specialty Contractor License, which involves experience documentation, passing a competency exam, and meeting financial responsibility and insurance requirements [source 6]. Specifically, at least 2 years of documented residential masonry experience is typically needed for the residential license, while the unrestricted license requires 4 or more years of experience across both commercial and residential projects. For entry-level workers, a license is not immediately required, as most gain experience through apprenticeships before pursuing licensing. However, even for employees, completing safety certifications and having formal training significantly improves employment prospects by demonstrating technical competence and commitment to the trade. Contractors and business owners in Wildwood are also responsible for securing local permits and adhering to municipal construction codes [source 10], and for more details on licensing, check Florida CILB resources.
The most common path into the masonry trade in Wildwood involves enrolling in a registered apprenticeship program, typically sponsored by trade organizations, local contractors, or unions. These apprenticeships combine structured on-the-job training with classroom education, preparing candidates to become journeyman masons.
| Apprenticeship Level | Duration | Estimated Weekly Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Mason Tender | 1–2 years | $10–$18/hr ($400–$900/week*) |
| Mason Apprentice | 3–4 years | $18–$25/hr ($700–$1,495/week*) |
| Journeyman Mason | After completion | $20–$30/hr ($1,200–$2,800/week*) |
| Mason Foreman | 6+ years | $23–$30+/hr ($1,500–$3,000+ week*) |
*Estimates based on 40+ hour weeks depending on overtime.
To begin your masonry apprenticeship in Wildwood:
Meet the Basic Requirements:
Search for Apprenticeship Opportunities:
Undergo Training:
Ready to start your masonry apprenticeship in Wildwood? Explore hundreds of masonry jobs and apprenticeships by visiting Gild and searching for nearby openings in the trade.
Upon completing your apprenticeship, the next stage is to become a licensed mason, particularly if you intend to run your own business or contract directly with clients. The key steps are:
Gather Work Experience:
Pass the Licensing Examination:
Submit Licensing Application:
Secure Local Permits in Wildwood, FL:
Continue Professional Development:
Employers in Wildwood value a mix of technical expertise, safety awareness, and soft skills that enhance teamwork and efficiency on the job. Key competencies include:
Additional qualifications that stand out include experience with plastering, drywall installation, and roofing elements, as well as basic heavy equipment operation. Employers also value professional certifications in first aid, OSHA safety training, and equipment handling, which enhance both employability and job performance.
The masonry job market in Wildwood, FL, remains stable and competitive in 2025, with construction demand driven by residential development and infrastructure projects in Lake and Sumter County. Current job boards like Indeed and ZipRecruiter list several masonry job openings in Wildwood, including positions for Mason Tenders, Bricklayers, Blocklayers, and Masonry Foremen [source 7]. Weekly wages have remained strong:
These figures reflect an industry that rewards skill development, experience, and project leadership. Employers in Wildwood also offer additional benefits such as:
With the integration of new technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), robotic masonry systems, and prefabrication, professionals who invest in continuous learning and adapt to evolving industry trends will see sustained demand for their expertise. For those entering the field in 2025, the outlook is promising with clear paths for growth, increased income, and even business ownership in the masonry trade.
Beginning a career in masonry in Wildwood, FL, offers a strong foundation in a respectable trade with steady employment and competitive pay. Whether through apprenticeships, formal training programs, or direct employment opportunities, the path to success is accessible to those who demonstrate commitment, skill, and a strong work ethic. To find active masonry job listings in Wildwood, visit Gild, filter by your location, and connect with employers actively hiring. With demand for skilled masons on the rise and technology enhancing the trade, there's no better time to start your masonry career in Wildwood than in 2025.
