Stonemason

Stonemasonry is the traditional craft of carving and cutting stone materials and then fitting them into place. Stonemasons can work on all sorts of construction projects, but typically restore and repair buildings of historic importance, cutting and preparing stone using both hand and machine cutting tools.

There are three main work areas:

• Banker masons are based in workshops, crafting and shaping stone, often replicating original features. They also texture and polish stone. Skilled banker masons may also carve figures and patterns
• Fixer masons build the dressed stone and fit cladding on site. As well as building stonewalls, a fixer mason may also repair damaged stonework
• Monumental or memorial masons design and make memorials, such as headstones.

Stonemasons tend to work 39 hours a week, Monday to Friday, with occasional late finishes or weekend work. Banker masons mainly work in workshops, which can be noisy and dusty. Fixer masons work outdoors, often at heights in all weathers. The work is physically demanding, involving the lifting and transportation of heavy materials. Some travel, especially for fixer masons, may be required.

Trainees may start on between £8,639 and £14,439 a year, which may increase to between £25,000 and £33,000 for a very experienced self-employed stonemason.

Stonemasons should be:

• practical, with good hand-to-eye co-ordination
• creative, artistic and methodical
• able to follow drawings and instructions
• physically fit and agile
• interested in heritage building conservation.

Most job opportunities are with stonemasonry firms, construction companies and building conservation trusts. Some stonemasons work as self-employed contractors. There is currently good demand for stonemasons.

There are no specific entry requirements. However, an interest in craft subjects combined with GCSEs (A*-C) in maths and English can be useful. Entry is usually through an Apprenticeship or traineeship.

Most stonemasons train on the job combined with attending college by day release to study NVQs in stonemasonry. These are available at Levels 1 to 3. A number of stonemasonry courses are also available, including a one-year full-time Advanced Stonemasonry Diploma. Stonemasons working on site must have a ConstructionSkills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. This requires passing a health and safety test.

There may be opportunities for promotion to technical, supervisory and managerial roles, potentially managing a large restoration project. A large number become self-employed. Very experienced stonemasons may be commissioned to work overseas.

Further details