Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers Salary in Ohio

Cement masons and concrete finishers in Ohio earn a median salary of $62,050 annually ($29.83/hour), which is significantly higher than the national median of $54,660. With Ohio's lower cost of living (0.908 factor), your purchasing power effectively equals $68,337 nationally. Entry-level workers (10th percentile) start around $43,250, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn up to $78,810. Pay varies considerably based on experience, with mid-career workers (75th percentile) earning $73,580. Union membership, specialized skills like decorative concrete finishing, and working in major metro areas like Columbus or Cleveland typically command higher wages. The construction industry's steady demand for concrete work, driven by infrastructure projects and commercial development, provides stable employment opportunities. Ohio's position as a manufacturing and logistics hub ensures consistent concrete work across industrial, residential, and public sectors.

In Ohio, most cement masons enter through 2-4 year apprenticeship programs, primarily through the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association (OPCMIA) Local 132 (Cleveland) or Local 692 (Columbus/Dayton). These programs combine 144 hours of classroom instruction annually with 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Apprentices start at 40-50% of journeyman wages, progressing to full pay upon completion. High school completion is typically required, with strong math and English skills essential. Ohio doesn't require state licensing for cement masons, though some municipalities may have local requirements. The Associated General Contractors of Ohio and Ohio State Building Trades Council also offer training pathways. Community colleges like Sinclair (Dayton) and Cuyahoga Community College provide related construction technology programs. Many contractors prefer hiring through apprenticeship programs due to the structured training. The Ohio Department of Commerce's Bureau of Workers' Compensation offers safety certification programs that can enhance employment prospects and potentially increase earning potential.

The $35,560 gap between Ohio's lowest earners ($43,250, 10th percentile) and highest earners ($78,810, 90th percentile) primarily reflects experience and specialization. Entry-level workers typically perform basic finishing tasks under supervision, while top earners often specialize in decorative concrete, stamped patterns, or complex commercial projects. Union membership significantly impacts earnings—union cement masons typically earn wages closer to the 75th percentile ($73,580) due to collective bargaining agreements. Geographic location within Ohio matters: Cleveland and Columbus metro areas generally offer higher wages than rural counties. Contractors working on prevailing wage projects (government-funded construction) earn significantly more, often pushing experienced workers toward that 90th percentile range. Specialized skills like colored concrete, epoxy applications, or operating laser screeds can add $5,000-$10,000 annually to base wages.