Stonemason
The Work
Stonemasons prepare, cut, trim and fix stone and blocks for a variety of purposes including the repair and maintenance of historic buildings and monuments; the production of architectural features such as window frames, lintels, archways and ornamental garden pieces; cladding for new-build construction projects; and the creation of memorial headstones for the funeral sector. Stonemasons work with a range of materials such as sandstone, slate, marble and granite.
There are two main roles:
Hours and Conditions
Stonemasons normally work a 39-hour week. Overtime may be necessary to meet deadlines.
Banker masons are mainly based in workshops which can be noisy and dusty, requiring the wearing of protective masks, ear defenders and goggles. Fixer masons work outdoors in all weathers on building sites, often at heights on scaffolding. The work can be physically demanding, lifting and carrying heavy stone and equipment.
Some travel, possibly with long or short stays away from home is involved, so a driving licence is useful.
Skills and Interests
To be a stonemason you should:
Training
Training is normally provided on the job with day or block release at local colleges or training providers leading to NVQ / SVQ qualifications. You work towards NVQs / SVQs in Stonemasonry at levels 2 and 3.
Mandatory units include the preparation of materials and the work area, followed by optional units for:
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
Masons are employed by stonemasonry companies which are often small concerns. If working for a small firm, a mason would be expected to cover both banker and fixing duties. Some masons work for construction companies directly or are self-employed, sub-contracting their services to larger building firms.
It may be possible for stonemasons to progress to supervisory or construction management roles.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees minimum wage rates annually.
Income for new entrant stonemasons is around £12,000+ a year.
Experienced workers can earn £20,000 to £25,000+ a year.
Senior stonemasons may earn upwards of £30,000+ a year.
Overtime and various allowances can significantly increase income. Those self-employed negotiate their own rates.
Further Information
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CITB - Construction Skills
Tel: 01485 577577
www.citb.org.uk
