Building stonemason

What does a building stone mason do? – Tasks and work environment

A building stone mason works with processing, shaping, and customizing natural stone for construction and restoration of buildings, bridges, monuments, and other structures. The tasks range from rough processing of large stone blocks to detailed ornaments and façade stones. The work often takes place both outdoors at construction sites and indoors in workshops, where modern machinery is combined with traditional craftsmanship. Exposure to dust and noise occurs, and the work requires precision, strength, and good physical condition, as heavy lifting and detailed work are common.

Salary development over time

The salary development for building stone masons has been clearly positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,500 SEK per month, which increased slightly to 33 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has taken a bigger leap and now stands at 38 000 SEK per month, corresponding to an increase of approximately 12.4% compared to the previous year. This salary development can be explained by increased demand for specialized craftsmen in the construction sector, while the supply of trained stonemasons is limited. The industry’s focus on preserving cultural-historical buildings and increased interest in natural stone materials have also contributed to strengthening the profession’s salary position.

Building stone mason salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 000 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Varies, but the average reflects the industry’s mid-range
• Hourly wage: 228 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 38 300 SEK, specific data for women is unavailable
• Regional differences: Data on variations are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a building stone mason, a high school education within the construction and civil engineering program is usually required, often with a focus on stone or bricklaying trades. Practical experience is crucial, and many employers value apprenticeship periods and journeyman exams. Some choose to supplement with specialized courses or certifications to increase employability and broaden their skills.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, focus on stone
• Apprenticeship: Practical training with experienced stonemasons is recommended
• Journeyman exam: Opportunity to obtain a journeyman certificate in the trade
• Professional certificates: May be required by some employers
• Prerequisites: Good physical health, interest in craftsmanship and mathematics

Common benefits and compensations

Building stone masons are often covered by collective agreements that provide rights to holiday pay, occupational pension, and overtime pay. Workwear, tools, and sometimes wellness allowances are offered by many employers. For larger projects, travel allowances and per diems may occur, especially if the work site is far from home.

Competition and challenges

The profession of building stone mason is relatively niche, and competition for jobs can vary depending on region and project. Since training is specialized and requires extensive practical experience, it is not uncommon for employers to have difficulty finding qualified candidates. At the same time, the number of available jobs within the trade is relatively high, indicating a certain shortage of labor. Challenges include physically demanding tasks, outdoor work under varying weather conditions, and the need to constantly update oneself on new materials and techniques.

Tips for those who want to become a building stone mason

To succeed as a building stone mason, it’s good to have a strong eye for detail and patience, as the work often requires precision in both large and small tasks. Being physically resilient is important, as the workday may involve heavy lifting and repetitive movements. Curiosity about materials and techniques helps develop craftsmanship and problem-solving skills, which are valuable in restorations and specialized assignments. The ability to collaborate and communicate well with colleagues and clients is also central, especially in larger projects. For those looking to develop in the profession, it’s recommended to seek apprenticeships and participate in further training. A structured work approach and the ability to handle stressful situations facilitate daily work. Finally, having a genuine interest in building history and cultural environments is an advantage, especially if restoration work appeals.

Key facts about Building Stone Masons

• Education level: High school education with focus on stone or construction
• Work environment: Varied between workshop and construction site, often outdoors
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes project-based
• Demand: 1,433 available jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Traditional craftsmanship techniques and material knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a building stone mason can advance to foreman, project manager, or specialize in restoration and cultural heritage. Some choose to start their own business and take on assignments as consultants or contractors. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no specific forecast for building stone masons due to limited data, but a shortage of qualified workers and a large number of available jobs suggest stable future prospects. Opportunities for further education and specialization are good, especially within preservation and restoration of historic buildings. Digitalization and new machinery techniques may also open doors for development in the profession.

Common questions about Building Stone Masons

• What is the average salary of a building stone mason?
  - A building stone mason has an average monthly salary of 38 000 SEK.
• How has the salary development for building stone masons evolved?
  - Salaries have increased from 33,500 SEK (2022) to 38 000 SEK (2024), indicating a positive trend.
• What education is required to become a building stone mason?
  - A vocational education within the construction and civil engineering program, often with a focus on stone or bricklaying trades, is recommended.
• Are there many job opportunities for building stone masons?
  - There are 1,433 available jobs within the trade according to current statistics.
• What does the work as a building stone mason involve?
  - The work involves processing and shaping natural stone for construction, restoration, and decoration of buildings and structures.
• What is the work environment like for building stone masons?
  - The work environment varies between workshops and construction sites and can be physically demanding and diverse.
• Are there any salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 38 300 SEK, but specific salary data for women is unavailable.