The regular workweek is 35 to 40 hours, Monday through Friday. Pay is higher for overtime, night shifts, and for unusually hazardous work. While metropolitan areas are largely union, smaller communities have a number of non-union Brick Masons. Construction activity is sensitive to cyclical changes in the economy. Therefore, annual earnings for bricklayers working in construction are lower than what the comparatively high hourly wage rates would imply.
Income can vary from year to year.
Many Brick Masons get their skills informally by working as helpers or hod carriers and by observing and learning from experienced workers. Others learn their skills through apprenticeship programs, which generally provide the most thorough training. Apprentices must be at least 18 years old, and have a high school diploma or pass the G.E.D. Test. Upon successful completion of the program, apprentices achieve full journey-level status. Some Brick Masons attend community college classes to gain the welding skills occasionally necessary on multi-story buildings where prefabricated panels are used.