certificationNationally Recognized

Journeyman Mason Certification

The Journeyman Mason Certification validates the skills and knowledge of masons who have completed an apprenticeship in masonry. It certifies that the individual is proficient in working with various masonry materials and techniques.

Total Cost

Estimated Budget

$1,350$4,350

Median Salary

Annual Earnings

$48,660

Job Growth

10-Year Outlook

3.8%

Training Hours

Total Program Duration

Approximately 144 hours of technical training per year, plus 2000 hours of paid on-the-job training annually over a 3-4 year period

Who Needs This Credential?

This certification is needed by masons seeking to authenticate their level of professional skill and knowledge in the trade, often required by employers for advanced positions or specialized projects.

Reciprocity varies by state; some states accept this certification as equivalent to their own licensing requirements, while others may require additional verification or testing.

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)Masonry Contractors Association of America (MCAA)Construction And TradesNationally Recognized

Requirements

To obtain Journeyman Mason Certification, candidates must complete a formal apprenticeship program, which includes both classroom learning and hands-on training. Eligibility criteria include meeting age and education requirements, passing a background check, and fulfilling specific health standards.

Minimum Age
18
Minimum Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Training Hours
Approximately 144 hours of technical training per year, plus 2000 hours of paid on-the-job training annually over a 3-4 year period
Background Check
Includes criminal history and previous employment verification

Other Requirements

Must pass a physical examinationDrug screening testSuccessful completion of the apprenticeship program's final exam

How to Become Journeyman Mason Certification Certified

The process to achieve Journeyman Mason Certification typically involves 5 to 7 steps and can take around 3-5 years to complete. It starts with basic education and progresses through hands-on apprenticeship, culminating in examination and certification.

1

Complete Basic Education

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. This foundational step ensures eligibility for formal apprenticeships and training programs.

1-2 years Free

Focus on mathematics and physical science courses to ease future training.

2

Enroll in a Masonry Apprenticeship Program

Join an apprenticeship program through a trade school or community college, often sponsored by construction unions or contractor associations.

3-4 years Variable, often subsidized by sponsors

Choose programs that offer the most hands-on experience and job placement opportunities.

3

Gain Hands-on Experience

Work under the supervision of experienced masons to learn practical skills and techniques in brick, stone, and other construction materials.

Concurrent with apprenticeship Free, as it is part of the apprenticeship

Take every opportunity to work on diverse projects to broaden your skill set.

4

Attend Technical Training

Complete required technical training courses during the apprenticeship, which cover blueprint reading, building code standards, and safety regulations.

Included in the 3-4 year apprenticeship period Included in apprenticeship fees

Pay close attention to safety courses and code compliance.

5

Pass the Journeyman Mason Examination

After completing your apprenticeship, pass a state or nationally recognized examination to prove your competency in masonry skills and knowledge.

Several weeks for preparation and testing $100-$300

Study previous exam materials and participate in study groups.

6

Obtain Licensure

Apply for a masonry license if required by your state. This may involve submitting proof of apprenticeship completion and passing the journeyman exam.

1-2 months $50-$200

Ensure all documents are correctly filled and submitted on time.

7

Continuous Education and Certification Renewal

Engage in continuous education to keep up with new technologies and techniques. Renew your certification as required to maintain your qualification.

Ongoing Variable

Attend workshops and seminars specific to advancements in masonry.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost for obtaining a Journeyman Mason Certification varies depending on the location and training provider. Major cost drivers include the length and type of training program. Financial aid options and employer sponsorships are available in many cases.

Training Program$1,000$4,000
Exam Fee$200
Application Fee$100
Background Check$50
Total Estimated Cost$1,350$4,350

💰 Financial Aid Available

Many employers offer to pay for training and certification costs as part of their professional development programs.

Salary & Career Outlook

Entry Level

$32,000

Median Salary

$48,660

Experienced

$65,000

Job Outlook: 3.8%

The growth in the masonry field is likely driven by increased construction activities due to urban growth and infrastructure renewal. The demand for skilled masons is supported by the need for building restoration and the trend towards more sustainable building practices.

Construction sitesResidential building projects

Exam Information

The Journeyman Mason Certification exam assesses the skills and knowledge necessary for a mason at the journeyman level. It includes a written test that covers various aspects of masonry, from materials and techniques to safety regulations. Candidates should prepare by studying relevant materials and practicing masonry techniques.

Journeyman Mason Certification Exam

Administered by National Association of Masonry Professionals • Fee: $200

Written test
100 questions2 hoursPassing: 70%
Retake policy: Candidates can retake the exam after 30 days if they fail, with a maximum of three attempts per year.

Industry Insights

Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

Steady Growth Projected for Journeyman Masons Through 2034

Current Employment

7,000

Projected

7,600

Growth Rate

+8.1%

New Positions

600

What's Driving Demand

The modest growth in the masonry sector is driven by increased construction and infrastructure projects, coupled with a steady demand for restoration of historical structures.

Increased construction activitiesRestoration projectsInfrastructure development

With an anticipated growth rate of 3.8% from 2024 to 2034, the Journeyman Mason profession is set to see a modest but steady increase in employment, rising from 342,200 to 355,200. This growth, while slower than some tech sectors, highlights a stable demand for skilled masonry, resistant to automation threats due to the hands-on, bespoke nature of the work involved. As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation reshape many industries, the inherently physical and nuanced tasks of masonry remain less vulnerable, offering a buffer against the automation that disrupts more routine jobs. Meanwhile, demographic shifts and evolving construction standards continue to influence the demand for these skilled professionals. For those considering a career in this field, an understanding of emerging technologies and regulations will be crucial to maximizing job security and advancement opportunities.

Long-Term Outlook

AI & Automation

low disruption risk

AI's impact on the Journeyman Mason profession remains low due to the high level of manual dexterity and customization required in masonry. Automation in this field is more likely to assist rather than replace, with tools that enhance precision and efficiency.

ongoing

Demographics

An aging population and urban expansion are increasing demand for both new construction and the maintenance of existing structures, benefiting masons.

Key factor: urban expansion

Policy & Regulation

Regulations around building safety and energy efficiency are becoming stricter, requiring skilled masons for compliance and driving ongoing education in the field.

Building codesSafety regulations

Industry Shifts

The construction industry's focus on sustainable and green building practices is creating new opportunities for masons trained in these areas.

Sustainable construction techniquesHeritage restoration

Top Skills

Active Listening

50/100

Critical Thinking

50/100

Time Management

50/100

Bottom Line

The Journeyman Mason certification remains a solid choice for those interested in a career with stable prospects and resistance to automation, especially for those willing to engage with new construction technologies and regulatory standards.

State-by-State Variations

Journeyman Mason Certification requirements in the United States vary significantly by state. These differences can include the number of required training hours, the nature of examinations, and the presence of formal apprenticeships.

Most Accessible

Reciprocity: Reciprocity between states allows certified masons from one state to work in another without re-certification, but this is not universally accepted and often requires proof of equivalent training and testing standards.

Renewal Requirements

Journeyman Mason Certification requires renewal to ensure masons stay updated with the latest industry standards and safety regulations. Renewal typically occurs every 2 years and involves continuing education and a renewal fee.

Renewal Period

every 2 years

Renewal Cost

$150

CE Hours

16 hours

CE Topics: Safety Procedures, Advanced Masonry Techniques

Late renewal incurs a penalty fee of $50. Certification may be suspended if not renewed within 1 month past the deadline.

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