Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers Salary in Vermont

Cement masons and concrete finishers in Vermont earn a median salary of $58,310 annually, or $28.03 per hour—about $3,650 above the national median of $54,660. Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile start around $46,600, while experienced professionals can reach $64,830 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% of workers earn between $48,950 and $63,330, showing steady earning progression with experience. Pay in Vermont is influenced by several factors: union membership through the Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons International Association (OPCMIA) typically provides higher wages and benefits, specialty work like decorative concrete or industrial projects commands premium rates, and location matters—Burlington and other developed areas generally offer higher compensation than rural regions. Experience is the biggest factor, with seasoned finishers earning nearly 40% more than newcomers. Vermont's construction market benefits from both residential development and infrastructure projects, creating consistent demand for skilled concrete workers. The state's slightly above-average cost of living (1.033 factor) is more than offset by the higher wages, making this a financially viable career path.

Vermont doesn't require specific licensing for cement masons and concrete finishers, but most employers prefer workers with formal training or apprenticeship experience. The most common path is through a 2-4 year apprenticeship program, often through the OPCMIA Local 92, which serves Vermont and parts of New Hampshire. These programs combine 144 hours of classroom instruction annually with 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. Apprentices start at about 40-50% of journeyman wages ($11-14/hour) and receive raises every six months, reaching full scale by program completion. Vermont Technical College in Randolph Center offers construction technology courses that can supplement apprenticeship training. Some workers enter through on-the-job training with established contractors, starting as laborers and learning through hands-on experience—this path typically takes 3-4 years to reach journeyman level. The Vermont Department of Labor's apprenticeship division helps connect candidates with programs. Key skills to develop include physical stamina, attention to detail, basic math, and the ability to work in various weather conditions. While no state license is required, OSHA 10-hour safety certification is often mandatory, and specialized certifications in flatwork, decorative concrete, or repair techniques can boost earning potential and job opportunities.

The $18,230 gap between Vermont's 10th percentile ($46,600) and 90th percentile ($64,830) earners reflects several key differentiators. Experience is the primary factor—entry-level workers typically start as laborers or first-year apprentices, while top earners are seasoned journeymen with 10+ years of specialized skills. Union membership through OPCMIA Local 92 significantly impacts earnings, with union workers typically earning 15-25% more than non-union counterparts, plus comprehensive benefits. Specialization matters greatly: decorative concrete specialists, industrial concrete finishers, and those skilled in repair techniques command premium rates. Geographic location within Vermont also affects pay—workers in Burlington, Montpelier, and ski resort areas (Killington, Stowe) earn more than those in rural counties. Top percentile earners often combine multiple advantages: union membership, specialized skills like stamped or colored concrete, supervisory responsibilities, or work for large commercial contractors on major projects. The relatively tight range between the 25th ($48,950) and 75th ($63,330) percentiles suggests most experienced workers cluster around similar wage levels, with the highest earners distinguished by specialized expertise or leadership roles.