Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools. Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut expansion joints.

SOC: 47-2051.00

Common Job Titles

Cement FinisherCement MasonConcrete FinisherFinisher

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate concrete surfaces for compliance with quality standards and specifications by inspecting finished work for smoothness, level, and durability.
  • Hands-onPerform concrete surface finishing operations using power trowels, floats, and edgers on floors, sidewalks, and roadways following established quality standards.
  • Hands-onOperate concrete saws and cutting equipment to cut expansion joints and control joints with precision.
  • Hands-onManipulate concrete screeds and straightedges to level and smooth freshly poured concrete surfaces before initial set.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze concrete quality and consistency by monitoring processes, materials, and environmental conditions on construction sites.
  • Hands-onAssemble concrete forms for sidewalks, curbs, and gutters ensuring proper alignment and grade using levels and measuring tools.
  • KnowledgeApply building and construction knowledge to determine appropriate finishing techniques based on project specifications and weather conditions.
  • Hands-onExecute concrete patching and repair procedures to fill voids and correct surface defects using trowels and specialized materials.
  • KnowledgeEstimate material quantities and project timelines using mathematical calculations and measuring techniques for concrete placement.
  • MindsetParticipate in coordinated work activities with team members and supervisors to ensure efficient concrete placement and finishing operations.
  • Hands-onOperate concrete vibrators and tampers to consolidate concrete and remove air pockets during placement.
  • MindsetRespect public safety and security protocols when working on roads, sidewalks, and public infrastructure projects.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

205,230

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$38,290
10% of workers earn the following or more$87,620
Workers on average earn$59,360

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • English Language3.7/5
  • Building and Construction3.5/5
  • Public Safety and Security3.1/5
  • Mathematics3.1/5
  • Mechanical2.6/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

Technology Skills

ACT Contractors FormsADAPT-ModelerHIPERPAVHard Dollar HD Project EstimatingLogicSphere FirstmixMaxwell Systems Quest EstimatorNational Concrete & Masonry EstimatorShilstone seeMIX

Tools & Equipment

Abrasive bladesAbrasive rubbing stonesAluminum floatsBar bendersBar cuttersBarrel mounted sprayersBit spadesBraces