6 answers
Christian
Student
Bamberg, South Carolina
1
Question
Updated
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What does a typical day look like in cement masonry? What are some tools of the trade I should be familiar with? How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in the region – not difficult, somewhat difficult, or very difficult and why?
What does a typical day look like in cement masonry?
What are some tools of the trade I should be familiar with?
How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in the region – not difficult, somewhat difficult, or very difficult and why?
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6 answers
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Christian,
What does a typical day look like in cement masonry?
In cement masonry, a typical day involves various tasks related to working with concrete and masonry materials to construct or repair structures. Some common activities that cement masons engage in on a daily basis include:
Preparing Surfaces: Cement masons often start their day by preparing surfaces for concrete placement. This may involve cleaning the area, setting up forms, and ensuring that the surface is level and properly graded.
Mixing Concrete: Cement masons are responsible for mixing concrete according to specific ratios to achieve the desired consistency. They may use tools such as mixers or wheelbarrows to prepare the concrete mixture.
Pouring and Spreading Concrete: Once the concrete is mixed, cement masons pour it into the designated area and spread it evenly using tools like trowels or screeds. They must ensure that the concrete is properly leveled and finished.
Finishing Work: After the concrete has been placed, cement masons perform finishing work to achieve the desired texture and appearance. This may involve techniques such as smoothing, stamping, or coloring the surface.
Cleaning Up: At the end of the day, cement masons clean up their work area by removing excess materials, cleaning tools, and ensuring that the site is safe and organized for the next day’s work.
Overall, a typical day in cement masonry is physically demanding and requires attention to detail to ensure that projects are completed accurately and efficiently.
What are some tools of the trade I should be familiar with?
Cement masons use a variety of tools to perform their job effectively. Some essential tools of the trade that you should be familiar with include:
Trowel: Used for spreading and smoothing concrete surfaces.
Float: Helps in finishing concrete by leveling and smoothing it.
Screed: Used to level freshly poured concrete.
Mixer: Essential for mixing concrete ingredients accurately.
Hammer: Used for tapping bricks or blocks into place.
Measuring Tape: Necessary for taking accurate measurements on construction sites.
Safety Gear: Includes items like hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots to protect against hazards.
Familiarizing yourself with these tools will help you perform tasks efficiently and safely in a cement masonry job.
How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in the region – not difficult, somewhat difficult, or very difficult and why?
The difficulty level for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired as cement masons in Bamberg, South Carolina can vary based on several factors:
Demand for Skilled Workers: If there is a high demand for construction projects in the region, there may be more opportunities available for recent graduates seeking employment in cement masonry.
Skills and Experience: Employers often prefer candidates with some level of experience or relevant skills in cement masonry. Recent graduates who have completed job training programs may have an advantage over those without any formal training.
Networking Opportunities: Building connections within the construction industry through internships, apprenticeships, or networking events can increase your chances of getting hired as a recent graduate.
Overall, while it may not be very easy for recent graduates without prior experience to secure employment as cement masons in Bamberg, South Carolina initially, opportunities exist for those who demonstrate dedication, willingness to learn, and strong work ethic.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA provides guidelines on safety standards and regulations relevant to construction jobs like cement masonry.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER): NCCER offers industry-recognized training programs and certifications that can enhance job prospects for individuals entering the construction field.
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC): AGC provides resources on industry trends, workforce development initiatives, and advocacy efforts related to construction careers like cement masonry.
God Bless You,
JC.
What does a typical day look like in cement masonry?
In cement masonry, a typical day involves various tasks related to working with concrete and masonry materials to construct or repair structures. Some common activities that cement masons engage in on a daily basis include:
Preparing Surfaces: Cement masons often start their day by preparing surfaces for concrete placement. This may involve cleaning the area, setting up forms, and ensuring that the surface is level and properly graded.
Mixing Concrete: Cement masons are responsible for mixing concrete according to specific ratios to achieve the desired consistency. They may use tools such as mixers or wheelbarrows to prepare the concrete mixture.
Pouring and Spreading Concrete: Once the concrete is mixed, cement masons pour it into the designated area and spread it evenly using tools like trowels or screeds. They must ensure that the concrete is properly leveled and finished.
Finishing Work: After the concrete has been placed, cement masons perform finishing work to achieve the desired texture and appearance. This may involve techniques such as smoothing, stamping, or coloring the surface.
Cleaning Up: At the end of the day, cement masons clean up their work area by removing excess materials, cleaning tools, and ensuring that the site is safe and organized for the next day’s work.
Overall, a typical day in cement masonry is physically demanding and requires attention to detail to ensure that projects are completed accurately and efficiently.
What are some tools of the trade I should be familiar with?
Cement masons use a variety of tools to perform their job effectively. Some essential tools of the trade that you should be familiar with include:
Trowel: Used for spreading and smoothing concrete surfaces.
Float: Helps in finishing concrete by leveling and smoothing it.
Screed: Used to level freshly poured concrete.
Mixer: Essential for mixing concrete ingredients accurately.
Hammer: Used for tapping bricks or blocks into place.
Measuring Tape: Necessary for taking accurate measurements on construction sites.
Safety Gear: Includes items like hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots to protect against hazards.
Familiarizing yourself with these tools will help you perform tasks efficiently and safely in a cement masonry job.
How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in the region – not difficult, somewhat difficult, or very difficult and why?
The difficulty level for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired as cement masons in Bamberg, South Carolina can vary based on several factors:
Demand for Skilled Workers: If there is a high demand for construction projects in the region, there may be more opportunities available for recent graduates seeking employment in cement masonry.
Skills and Experience: Employers often prefer candidates with some level of experience or relevant skills in cement masonry. Recent graduates who have completed job training programs may have an advantage over those without any formal training.
Networking Opportunities: Building connections within the construction industry through internships, apprenticeships, or networking events can increase your chances of getting hired as a recent graduate.
Overall, while it may not be very easy for recent graduates without prior experience to secure employment as cement masons in Bamberg, South Carolina initially, opportunities exist for those who demonstrate dedication, willingness to learn, and strong work ethic.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA provides guidelines on safety standards and regulations relevant to construction jobs like cement masonry.
National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER): NCCER offers industry-recognized training programs and certifications that can enhance job prospects for individuals entering the construction field.
Associated General Contractors of America (AGC): AGC provides resources on industry trends, workforce development initiatives, and advocacy efforts related to construction careers like cement masonry.
God Bless You,
JC.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this thank you.
Christian
Greg Berndt
Bricklayer, Mason
1
Answer
Three Rivers, Michigan
Updated
Greg’s Answer
Drive around, find a job-site, and introduce yourself. Bricklayer’s are always looking for new people. Look up unions, Bricklayer’s and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) is nationwide, and has many crafts. Bricklaying, concrete, marble, terrazzo, tile, refractory. They will train you, find you work, there is a job network so you can find work all over. I am a 25 year bricklaying member. If you are fit, energetic, and not afraid of work you can get a job. We have a pre apprenticeship program that gets you in the union and lets you work tending, making cuts, helping masons. It helps both ways, lets you figure if the work fits you, and if you fit the work. It is not for everyone, but is extremely rewarding being tired at the end of the day earning good money and building something that takes skill and that will last forever.
John Fening
Occupational Safety, Health Manager
47
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Good Morning,
To find out just what is expected of a Mason, Concrete Worker, Bricklayer on a day to day work I’d recommend getting in touch with their union and ask them. Most have a web address you could search for your answer and even provide a means to contact the union and ask them these questions.
The next research you might want to look through is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor. These sites provide information on position descriptions and potential salary, educational requirements and benefits information.
Good luck with your career and this research
Cement Masons & Plasterers
International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers
Laborers’ International Union of North America
To find out just what is expected of a Mason, Concrete Worker, Bricklayer on a day to day work I’d recommend getting in touch with their union and ask them. Most have a web address you could search for your answer and even provide a means to contact the union and ask them these questions.
The next research you might want to look through is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor. These sites provide information on position descriptions and potential salary, educational requirements and benefits information.
Good luck with your career and this research
John recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for the advice.
Christian
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1058
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Christian, it's important to understand that a typical day for a cement mason involves a mix of hands-on work and technical know-how. Masons usually kick off their day early, studying blueprints, setting up scaffolding, and getting ready materials like cement, bricks, and mortar. They place bricks, concrete blocks, and other materials based on exact measurements and designs, using tools such as trowels, levels, and plumb bobs to make sure structures are sturdy and straight. Mixing mortar, trimming materials to the right size, and applying finishes are also part of the job. Key tools for this work include brick trowels, jointers, spirit levels, and power saws.
For recent graduates or those finishing job training programs, finding work in this field can range from somewhat challenging to very challenging, depending on the area.
Christian, it's crucial to recognize that this is influenced by factors such as changing construction demand, the requirement for experienced masons on big projects, and competition from established professionals. However, job seekers who are persistent, show a strong work ethic, are eager to learn, and are skilled in masonry techniques often secure rewarding career opportunities in construction and related fields.
For recent graduates or those finishing job training programs, finding work in this field can range from somewhat challenging to very challenging, depending on the area.
Christian, it's crucial to recognize that this is influenced by factors such as changing construction demand, the requirement for experienced masons on big projects, and competition from established professionals. However, job seekers who are persistent, show a strong work ethic, are eager to learn, and are skilled in masonry techniques often secure rewarding career opportunities in construction and related fields.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Christian
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1205
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Christian,
A typical day in cement masonry involves preparing surfaces for concrete, mixing and applying mortar or grout, laying and aligning bricks, stones or other materials, and finishing surfaces with tools such as trowels. This work often takes place outdoors in various weather conditions.
Some tools of the trade that a cement mason should be familiar with include trowels, hammers, chisels, levels, power saws, and measuring devices. They may also need to use specialized equipment like concrete mixers or grout pumps.
It can vary by region, but generally speaking, recent graduates of a college or job training program may find it somewhat difficult to get hired for this job. Cement masonry requires physical strength and stamina, as well as hands-on experience that is gained through on-the-job training. Employers may prefer candidates with practical experience in construction or related fields rather than just academic knowledge. However, if a recent graduate can demonstrate relevant skills through internships or hands-on projects during their education program, they could improve their chances of finding employment in this field. Networking within the industry can also help recent graduates land a job in cement masonry.
Best wishes.
A typical day in cement masonry involves preparing surfaces for concrete, mixing and applying mortar or grout, laying and aligning bricks, stones or other materials, and finishing surfaces with tools such as trowels. This work often takes place outdoors in various weather conditions.
Some tools of the trade that a cement mason should be familiar with include trowels, hammers, chisels, levels, power saws, and measuring devices. They may also need to use specialized equipment like concrete mixers or grout pumps.
It can vary by region, but generally speaking, recent graduates of a college or job training program may find it somewhat difficult to get hired for this job. Cement masonry requires physical strength and stamina, as well as hands-on experience that is gained through on-the-job training. Employers may prefer candidates with practical experience in construction or related fields rather than just academic knowledge. However, if a recent graduate can demonstrate relevant skills through internships or hands-on projects during their education program, they could improve their chances of finding employment in this field. Networking within the industry can also help recent graduates land a job in cement masonry.
Best wishes.
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
193
Answers
Kyle, Texas
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
You can hire on to multiple concrete companies as a helper or apprentice and get paid to work. OJT (on the job training) which requires nothing but sweat, guts and muscle. You must be on time!
There are also trade schools that teach masonry, with hands on experience and detailed procedures that earn you a certificate of completion for construction site employment opportunities. This may get you a better rate of pay because you are trained, but you don't know it all yet. That takes time.
Then there are Engineering sciences which will lead you to careers in civil engineering, planning, architecture, and other highly sought after titles in a wide variety of environments.
You also have cement artistry, design, product development, and functional masonry sciences.
It's tough work from the bottom to the top but you decide where you want to start. (did training and worked in laying brick in the 70's but was allergic to some of the masonry mixtures, so I switched to welding) Construction work was hard but fun and fulfilling.
Start making calls and speaking with contractors. Start on weekends.
There are also trade schools that teach masonry, with hands on experience and detailed procedures that earn you a certificate of completion for construction site employment opportunities. This may get you a better rate of pay because you are trained, but you don't know it all yet. That takes time.
Then there are Engineering sciences which will lead you to careers in civil engineering, planning, architecture, and other highly sought after titles in a wide variety of environments.
You also have cement artistry, design, product development, and functional masonry sciences.
It's tough work from the bottom to the top but you decide where you want to start. (did training and worked in laying brick in the 70's but was allergic to some of the masonry mixtures, so I switched to welding) Construction work was hard but fun and fulfilling.
Start making calls and speaking with contractors. Start on weekends.
Thank you! I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Christian