Lapidary

What does a stonemason do? – Tasks and work environment

A stonemason works with grinding, shaping, and processing various types of stone materials to create products or components within construction, industry, and interior design. Tasks include everything from rough grinding and fine polishing to finishing natural stone, artificial stone, or concrete. Stonemasons use both manual and machine tools, often in environments where dust and noise are present. Precision and a sense of material properties are central, as well as the ability to interpret drawings and meet quality standards. Work can be performed in a workshop, factory, or directly on-site at construction projects.

Salary development over time

The salary for stonemasons has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,800 SEK per month, rising to 35 500 SEK in 2023 and reaching 36 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.2% over the period. The salary development reflects an increased need for specialized skills in stone processing, while competition for qualified workers has driven wages higher. Demand for stonemasons has been influenced by the construction sector's economic cycle and infrastructure investments, creating upward pressure on salaries. The trend indicates continued stable demand for skilled stonemasons, although regional and employer variations may occur.

Stonemason salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 36,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (hourly worker): 216 SEK
• Women: 34,100 SEK/month
• Men: 36 200 SEK/month
• Women earn: 94% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Small variations, mainly depending on demand in different parts of the country

Education and qualifications

To work as a stonemason, a high school education in construction and civil engineering, with specialization in stone or equivalent industrial manufacturing, is usually required. Practical experience and specialized courses are often advantageous and can provide an edge during employment. Many employers also value technical understanding and the ability to handle modern grinding machines and measurement instruments.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program (approximately 3 years)
• Practical training: Apprenticeship period is common in the profession
• Certifications: Safety training and machine operator licenses are often required
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition and interest in technology
• Courses/continuing education: Specialized courses in stone processing are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

Stonemasons are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to holiday pay, sick pay, and occupational pension. Other common benefits include work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes bonuses based on production targets. In some cases, additional insurance and training support are offered.

Competition and challenges

The profession of stonemason is characterized by a relatively small labor market with limited competition, but employers demand high levels of experience and precision. Physical strain, repetitive movements, and exposure to dust can be health challenges, making safety measures and ergonomics important parts of the work environment. Technological development and automation have increased the requirements for machine knowledge and digital tools, while demand for specialized labor remains steady. The availability of new jobs depends on the construction sector's economic cycle and regional investments.

Tips for aspiring stonemasons

To succeed as a stonemason, it's good to combine precision with practical skills and a willingness to learn the craft in depth. Patience and perseverance during training and apprenticeships provide valuable experience, especially since the work often demands accuracy over long work sessions. An interest in technology and machines facilitates learning new tools or methods. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are appreciated by employers, especially when handling different stone materials and projects. Being cooperative and attentive to instructions from supervisors is also important, as is prioritizing safety and ergonomics in the work environment.

Key facts about Stonemasons

• Average salary: 36 000 SEK/month
• Education level: High school (3 years)
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK
• Typical work environment: Workshop, factory, or construction site
• Number of job openings in the profession: 1,437

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a stonemason can develop into more specialized roles, such as supervisor, machine manager, or technical expert in stone processing. There are also opportunities to start your own business or work as a consultant in construction projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for stonemasons due to limited data, but the group of machine operators within cement, stone, and concrete products shows stable demand with 1,437 reported job openings. Future prospects are mainly influenced by the construction industry's investments and technological development, but skilled stonemasons with broad expertise are expected to have good employment opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Stonemasons

• What is the average salary of a stonemason?
  - A stonemason has an average salary of 36 000 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Women earn 34,100 SEK while men earn 36 200 SEK, which means women earn 94% of men's salary.
• What is required to become a stonemason?
  - A high school education in construction and civil engineering, along with relevant practical experience, is most common.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary differences are small and mainly affected by demand in different regions.
• What is the job market like for stonemasons?
  - There are 1,437 job openings and steady demand for labor.
• What occupational hazards exist?
  - Dust, noise, and physical strain are the main occupational hazards.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a stonemason?
  - The highest salary is 36,600 SEK (male, private sector employee), the lowest is 34,100 SEK (female, various sectors).