What Does A Cement Mason Do?

At Local 132, our mission is to provide cement masons and plasterers with ongoing training and education, pension plans, health insurance, and more by providing a cohesive labor union to meet the unique needs of skilled laborers. If you’re searching for a fulfilling career, becoming a cement mason may be the right move. But what does a cement mason do? Find out below, then consider joining OPCMIA Local 132 today.

photo of a project site

A Typical Day

A cement mason, also known as a cement finisher, forms and finishes concrete on everything from sidewalks to high-rises. A typical day for a cement mason might include:

  • Measuring and pouring concrete
  • Troweling or floating concrete to smooth it out
  • Applying a final finish to concrete, such as a broom finish, stamping, or staining
  • Erecting and dismantling scaffolding
  • Working around other tradespeople

photo of union members creating a cement barrier

The Skills You Need

Cement masons must be physically strong and have good coordination. You’ll also need to be able to read blueprints and follow oral instructions. As a cement mason, you’ll need to have a good understanding of basic math. 

photo of a mason creating a brick design in cement

Training

The training you’ll need to become a cement mason varies by state, but most journeyman programs last between three and four years. You’ll start out as an apprentice, working under the supervision of a journeyman or foreman. As you gain experience, you’ll be able to move up to higher-level positions.

photo of a mason leveling cement

Becoming a Cement Mason

Concrete and its related materials are used as a long-lasting, safe foundation for offices, schools, homes, restaurants, churches, and other structures that people use daily. Cement masons apply concrete’s strength and adaptability to the foundations of roads, power plants, airport runways, and dams. They may also be found working on driveways (both residential and commercial), sidewalks (in preparation for spring or fall), walls/ceilings (in addition to epoxy/gypsum floors), curbs (including curb repair), gutters (including gutter replacement), and slabs on grade. 

There are a number of benefits that come with joining a cement union and at OPCMIA 132, our mission is to set you up for success. Explore our website to learn more, contact us with any questions, or join local 132 of Southern Ohio today.