Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers Salary in Minnesota

Cement masons and concrete finishers in Minnesota earn a median salary of $63,610 annually, or $30.58 per hour. This puts the state about $9,000 above the national median of $54,660, making Minnesota one of the better-paying states for this trade. Entry-level workers (10th percentile) start around $49,570, while experienced finishers (90th percentile) can earn up to $97,240. Pay varies significantly based on experience, union membership, and location within the state. Metro areas like Minneapolis-St. Paul typically offer higher wages due to increased construction activity and higher living costs. Union members generally earn more through collective bargaining agreements with the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association (OPCMIA). Specialized work like decorative concrete, industrial flooring, or highway construction often commands premium rates. The trade benefits from Minnesota's robust construction industry, driven by both residential development and infrastructure projects. With most workers requiring only on-the-job training or apprenticeships rather than college degrees, this career offers solid middle-class earnings with good advancement potential for those willing to develop their skills.

In Minnesota, most cement masons and concrete finishers enter through apprenticeships or on-the-job training. The most structured path is through the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association (OPCMIA) apprenticeship program, which typically runs 2-4 years. Apprentices combine classroom instruction with hands-on training, learning concrete mixing, finishing techniques, form setting, and safety procedures. During apprenticeship, wages start at about 40-50% of journeyman pay (roughly $12-15/hour) and increase progressively. Minnesota doesn't require specific state licensing for cement masons, but workers may need general construction certifications depending on the project type. Some community colleges like Saint Paul College and Minneapolis Community & Technical College offer related construction programs that can provide foundational knowledge. Many contractors also hire entry-level workers and provide on-the-job training, though this path typically takes longer to reach full proficiency. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry oversees apprenticeship programs and can connect aspiring workers with opportunities. Union membership through OPCMIA Local 633 (Twin Cities area) provides access to better training, job placement, and higher wages. Physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in Minnesota's varied climate are essential, as the work is demanding and weather-dependent.

The salary range for cement masons in Minnesota shows significant earning potential based on experience and specialization. Workers at the 10th percentile earn $49,570, while those at the 90th percentile make $97,240 - nearly double the entry-level wage. This $47,670 spread reflects several factors. Union membership is a major differentiator, with union workers typically earning 20-30% more than non-union counterparts. Experience plays a crucial role - apprentices and new workers start at the lower end, while journeymen with 5+ years can reach the 75th percentile ($81,210) or higher. Specialization matters significantly: decorative concrete work, industrial flooring, and highway construction pay premium rates compared to basic residential work. Geographic location within Minnesota affects pay, with Twin Cities metro workers generally earning more than those in rural areas. The top earners often combine union membership, specialized skills, supervisory responsibilities, and work in high-demand sectors like commercial construction or infrastructure projects.