Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers Salary in Wisconsin

Cement masons and concrete finishers in Wisconsin earn a median salary of $63,490 annually or $30.53 per hour—significantly above the national median of $54,660. Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile start around $46,140, while experienced professionals in the 90th percentile earn up to $85,840. The middle 50% earn between $54,070 and $79,070, showing solid earning potential as you gain experience. Wisconsin's lower cost of living (6.8% below national average) makes this wage even more attractive, with an adjusted value of $68,122. Pay varies based on experience level, union membership, specialty work like decorative concrete or industrial projects, and location within the state. Metropolitan areas like Milwaukee and Madison typically offer higher wages due to increased construction activity. Union membership through the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association (OPCMIA) often provides better benefits and wage protection. The construction industry's steady demand for infrastructure maintenance and new development creates consistent job opportunities. Specializing in areas like stamped concrete, polishing, or repair work can command premium rates. Weather seasonality affects work availability but many contractors maintain year-round employment through indoor projects and winter preparation work.

Wisconsin cement masons typically enter through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, with most programs lasting 2-4 years. The OPCMIA operates several apprenticeship programs throughout Wisconsin, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training. Apprentices spend approximately 144 hours per year in classroom learning covering concrete chemistry, blueprint reading, safety protocols, and finishing techniques, plus 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training annually. Major programs operate in Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay areas. Wisconsin doesn't require state-level licensing for cement masons, but some municipalities may have local requirements—check with your city's building department. Workers need basic math skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Many apprentices start with general construction experience or complete pre-apprenticeship programs at Wisconsin technical colleges like Milwaukee Area Technical College or Madison Area Technical College. Union apprenticeships typically offer structured wage progression, starting at 50-60% of journeyman wages and increasing every six months. Non-union paths exist through general contractors who provide on-the-job training, though advancement may be less structured. Safety certification through OSHA 10 or 30-hour programs is increasingly valuable. Some workers pursue additional certifications in specialized techniques like decorative concrete or industrial flooring systems to increase earning potential.

The $39,700 gap between Wisconsin's lowest earners ($46,140 at 10th percentile) and highest earners ($85,840 at 90th percentile) primarily reflects experience level and specialization. Entry-level masons typically start around the 25th percentile ($54,070), learning basic finishing techniques and safety protocols. Mid-career professionals at the median ($63,490) have 3-5 years experience and can handle complex projects independently. Top earners ($79,070+ at 75th percentile) often combine extensive experience with specialized skills like decorative concrete, industrial flooring, or supervisory roles. The highest-paid 10% frequently hold foreman positions, own small contracting businesses, or specialize in high-end commercial work. Union membership significantly impacts earning potential, with union masons typically earning closer to the 75th percentile due to negotiated wage scales and regular increases. Geographic location within Wisconsin also matters—Milwaukee and Madison metro areas generally pay 10-15% above state median due to higher construction activity and living costs. Seasonal workers who only work construction seasons may earn less annually than year-round professionals who supplement with indoor work or snow removal contracts during winter months.