The mason profession is accessible with basic training, typically a CAP (Vocational Certificate) in masonry or a Bac Pro (Professional Baccalaureate) in Building Technician – Organization and Realization of Major Works.
What is the working environment of a mason?
The construction sector (building and public works) offers numerous job opportunities, covering a variety of projects ranging from housing construction to public infrastructure (bridges, roads, etc.). A mason typically works on construction or renovation sites in diverse environments: residential buildings, industrial sites, historical monuments, etc. The work is primarily outdoors, which can expose the mason to weather conditions. He works in teams, often alongside carpenters, plumbers, or electricians. The work environment can be noisy due to machinery, construction tools, and site activity. Tasks can be physically demanding, involving the regular handling of heavy materials, but also technical, depending on the materials being worked with (concrete, bricks, stones, etc.). Safety regulations are essential, and masons are often required to wear protective gear (helmet, gloves, safety shoes) to prevent job-related hazards. Working in this sector also requires adaptability to technological advancements and new materials used in construction.
What are the career development opportunities for a mason?
The mason profession offers several career advancement opportunities, depending on experience and further training:
- Team leader: After several years of experience, a mason can become a team leader, managing a team on a construction site.
- Site manager: This role involves overseeing the entire operations of a construction site, coordinating teams, and ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met.
- Project manager: An experienced mason can take on this strategic role, supervising multiple projects and managing the overall organization of construction work.
- Entrepreneur: After gaining solid experience, some masons choose to create their own masonry business. Specializations are also possible in areas such as the restoration of historical buildings, landscape masonry, or public works.
What is the salary of a mason?
A mason’s salary can vary depending on several factors: experience, the size of the site, the complexity of the work, and the region in which he works. At the start of their career, a mason typically earns around the minimum wage, approximately 1,801.80€ gross per month in 2025. With experience, this amount can increase to between 2,200€ and 2,600€ gross per month. For large-scale projects or areas with high demand, a mason can earn more, including additional bonuses for travel, attendance, or consistency. In temporary work, a mason’s salary is often supplemented by end-of-mission indemnities (IFM) and paid leave compensatory indemnities (ICP), which can significantly improve the net monthly salary.