Career Profile

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

What they do:

Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools. Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut expansion joints.

Also Called:

Cement Finisher, Cement Mason, Concrete Finisher, Concrete Mason, Finisher, Mason, Cement Finisher, Cement Mason, Concrete Finisher, Concrete Mason, Finisher, Mason
$38,010
Starting Salary (2025)
$48,770
Median Salary (2025)
1.8%
Projected Job Growth
7,920
TX Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Check the forms that hold the concrete to see that they are properly constructed.
Spread, level, and smooth concrete, using rake, shovel, hand or power trowel, hand or power screed, and float.
Set the forms that hold concrete to the desired pitch and depth, and align them.
Signal truck driver to position truck to facilitate pouring concrete, and move chute to direct concrete on forms.
Produce rough concrete surface, using broom.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Dependability
Attention to Detail
Persistence
Self-Control
Stress Tolerance
Cooperation

What key skills are needed for this job?

Monitoring
Coordination
Quality Control Analysis
Speaking
Time Management
Critical Thinking

Expected Knowledge

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Handling and Moving Objects

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 1

Little or No Preparation Needed

Education

Some of these occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Experience

Little or no previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Less than high school 52%
  • High school diploma 35%
  • Post-secondary certificate 13%
  • Associate's degree 1%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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