Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers: Salary, Job Outlook & How to Become One (2026 Parent Guide)

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers fall under the Construction and Extraction category in the U.S. occupational classification. Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers earn a median salary of $57,020 per year, ranking in the top 57% of all U.S. occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects +1.6% job growth through 2035, projected to grow slower than the US average. Entry into this field typically requires an apprenticeship, technical certification, or postsecondary training, with specific licensing or certification depending on the state and employer. For parents whose teenager is exploring this path, the most actionable step is mapping the education requirements to specific colleges and majors before junior year — not waiting until application season.

What do cement masons and concrete finishers earn?

The median annual wage for cement masons and concrete finishers is $57,020. That puts cement masons and concrete finishers at #470 on the BLS ranked list of all U.S. occupations by median pay. This salary is around or below the U.S. median for individual workers, so career growth often depends on advancement into supervisory roles, specialization, or additional credentials. Actual pay varies meaningfully by state, employer type, and years of experience — entry-level salaries are typically 30–40% below the median, while top-decile earners often exceed it by 50% or more.

Is cement masons and concrete finishers a growing career?

The 10-year outlook for cement masons and concrete finishers is +1.6%, projected to grow slower than the US average. Employment is projected to move from approximately 204K positions in 2024 to 208K in 2034, a net change of 4K. Flat growth typically reflects a mature, stable field. Most openings will come from retirements rather than new positions, which can favor candidates with strong networks and willingness to relocate.

What education does my child need to become cement masons and concrete finisher?

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers typically enter the field through a formal apprenticeship, technical certification, or vocational training program — a strong fit for teens who prefer hands-on learning over traditional college. For parents helping a teen prepare, the highest-leverage step before junior year is identifying colleges and programs that feed reliably into this occupation — Solyo's college search lets parents filter by major and admissions data side by side.

Related careers your child might also consider

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• Roofers
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• Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
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• Solar Photovoltaic Installers
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Common questions parents ask about cement masons and concrete finishers