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Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

SOC 47-2051.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers concrete finishing and masonry operations from entry-level residential slab work through senior leadership of multi-site commercial concrete construction crews.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Concrete forms — inspect under direct supervision to confirm proper construction and alignment on a residential job site.
  2. Hand tools and basic finishing equipment — identify and retrieve correctly when directed by a lead mason on a poured-slab project.
  3. Concrete surface — spread and roughly level using a rake or shovel under close guidance on a small commercial pour.
  4. Edging tools and jointers — apply along slab borders following step-by-step instruction from a journeyman mason.
  5. Truck positioning signals — relay basic hand signals to a driver under supervisor direction to facilitate concrete chute placement.
  6. Weather conditions — recognize how heat, cold, or wind may affect fresh concrete when prompted by a crew lead during a pour.
  7. Safety protocols — follow established site safety and public security rules under supervision on an active construction site.
  8. Broom finish technique — produce a basic rough surface texture on a freshly poured slab with direct coaching provided.
  9. Tape measures and depth gauges — use to confirm form depth and pitch readings when assigned by a lead cement mason.
  10. Verbal instructions — listen actively and respond accurately to task directions given by supervisors during daily concrete operations.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Concrete forms — set, align, and adjust independently to the specified pitch and depth on standard residential and light commercial pours.
  2. Power trowel and hand screed — operate routinely to spread, level, and smooth concrete surfaces with minimal supervisor oversight.
  3. Expansion joints and edges — mold consistently using edging tools, jointers, and a straightedge on sidewalk and driveway projects.
  4. Curing environment — monitor wind, temperature, and humidity conditions throughout a pour and apply standard protective measures as needed.
  5. Concrete truck chute — direct positioning and movement to guide material flow accurately into forms on a mid-size job site.
  6. Broom and float finishing — select and apply appropriate finishing tools to achieve specified surface textures on varied concrete placements.
  7. Work sequencing — manage personal time effectively to keep pace with pour schedules and avoid premature curing on routine jobs.
  8. Laborer coordination — guide crew members using shovels and spreading tools to distribute concrete evenly under general supervision.
  9. Quality checks — conduct visual and dimensional inspections of finished surfaces and flag defects for correction before project sign-off.
  10. Trade terminology — communicate clearly with crew members and forepersons using accurate construction vocabulary on active job sites.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Complex form systems — evaluate, construct, and align forms for irregular or large-scale pours autonomously, ensuring structural and dimensional accuracy.
  2. Full finishing sequence — execute spreading, leveling, troweling, floating, and brooming across the complete scope of a commercial slab project without oversight.
  3. Non-routine surface defects — diagnose causes such as bleed water, aggregate exposure, or cracking and apply corrective finishing techniques independently.
  4. Environmental curing management — adjust finishing schedules, apply curing compounds, and deploy protective covers in response to changing weather throughout an entire project.
  5. Expansion joint layout — calculate and mold joint placement to control cracking based on slab dimensions, load requirements, and mix specifications.
  6. Concrete placement coordination — direct truck drivers, pump operators, and laborers simultaneously to achieve efficient and accurate material distribution on complex pours.
  7. Project management software — use digital scheduling and tracking tools to monitor pour timelines, material deliveries, and crew assignments across multiple active sites.
  8. Critical problem solving — identify and resolve mid-pour issues such as premature stiffening or form failure using sound judgment under time pressure.
  9. Inspection standards — apply building and construction knowledge to verify finished work meets municipal codes and client specifications before project closeout.
  10. Safety hazard identification — proactively assess and address slip, chemical exposure, and equipment risks to protect crew and public on job sites.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Crew supervision strategy — establish performance expectations, assign tasks, and develop the skills of cement masons and laborers across multiple concurrent projects.
  2. Form design review — lead pre-pour planning sessions to evaluate form engineering, pitch calculations, and alignment plans submitted by field crews.
  3. Quality assurance program — develop and implement site-wide concrete finishing standards and inspection checklists to ensure consistent output across an organization.
  4. Environmental risk protocols — author and enforce curing management procedures for extreme weather scenarios, serving as the technical authority for the entire field operation.
  5. Analytical and scientific software — interpret concrete mix analysis and structural data to advise project engineers on finishing feasibility and schedule risk.
  6. Estimating and project planning — use project management and accounting software to forecast labor, material, and equipment costs for large-scale concrete construction bids.
  7. Mentorship and training — design and deliver structured on-the-job training programs that advance emerging masons through apprenticeship milestones and certification requirements.
  8. Cross-trade coordination — represent the masonry crew in pre-construction meetings with general contractors, engineers, and inspectors to align schedules and technical requirements.
  9. Organizational safety leadership — establish and champion public safety and site security policies that meet or exceed regulatory requirements across a construction company's projects.
  10. Complex problem resolution — lead root-cause analysis of systemic quality failures, develop corrective action plans, and communicate findings to executive and client stakeholders.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted weather lookup — queries a weather or AI chat tool for temperature, humidity, and wind forecasts before a pour, using the output as a reference alongside supervisor guidance to anticipate curing conditions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Concrete curing condition monitoring — feeds site temperature, wind speed, and mix data into an AI tool to receive curing-time estimates and flag risk windows, then verifies the guidance against direct on-slab observation Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Form-alignment documentation — photographs set forms and runs images through an AI-assisted measurement or defect-detection app to confirm pitch and depth before the pour begins, catching misalignments that visual inspection might miss WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Project sequencing delegation — describes pour schedule, crew size, and curing constraints to an AI assistant to generate a time-blocked work plan, then adjusts the output to match real site conditions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Quality control checklist generation — directs an AI tool to produce pour-specific inspection checklists covering joint spacing, surface tolerance, and edge profiles, then uses them during finishing to maintain consistent standards Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Environmental-risk briefing — compiles AI-generated summaries of wind, heat, or cold effects on fresh concrete and delivers the findings verbally to the crew before work begins, translating data-heavy outputs into actionable field instructions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous curing-risk workflow — integrates sensor readings, AI-predicted evaporation rates, and mix-design specifications into a coordinated monitoring protocol, deciding independently when to apply curing compounds or adjust finishing pace without waiting for supervisory input Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output validation and handoff — evaluates AI-generated pour plans and curing schedules for site-specific accuracy, corrects errors rooted in local soil or aggregate conditions that the model lacks, and hands the verified plan to apprentice masons as a training artifact Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 142
Augment share: 14.2%
Time saved: 86.5%
AI autonomy: 3.25
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Monitoring
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Pour direction signals — communicates hand and verbal cues to truck drivers to position chutes over forms during initial pours Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Form instruction relay — conveys basic setup requirements to laborers using simple, direct language on a noisy job site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Curing condition updates — reports wind, heat, and cold observations to crew leads using specific descriptive language to adjust finishing timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety hazard notification — communicates wet concrete boundaries and slip risks to adjacent trades using posted signage and verbal warnings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pre-pour crew briefing — delivers clear task assignments to laborers covering spread sequence, screed direction, and edge treatment before concrete arrives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Inspector dialogue — articulates form alignment specifications and joint placement rationale to site inspectors using building and construction terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Client expectation alignment — translates finish grade tolerances and surface texture options into plain language for owners and general contractors, preventing costly rework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-trade coordination debrief — leads post-pour reviews with plumbers, electricians, and project managers to reconcile embedded conduit placement with concrete schedule Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Laborer task initiation — directs a single laborer to shovel and spread concrete toward a designated strike-off point under direct supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool accountability — takes responsibility for staging and returning hand floats, edgers, and jointers at the end of each shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Small crew direction — guides two to four laborers through pour sequencing, correcting spread technique and pace to meet form fill deadlines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Apprentice demonstration — shows newer workers proper trowel angle and pressure on fresh concrete, explaining the reasoning behind each adjustment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pour operation oversight — directs the full casting operation including truck positioning, chute movement, screed passes, and joint molding from start to finish Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality checkpoint enforcement — stops finishing work when surface defects appear and reassigns laborers to corrective screeding before concrete sets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Site finishing leadership — manages multiple concurrent pours across a large commercial slab, allocating skilled finishers to critical areas based on real-time curing assessments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship program contribution — develops on-the-job training sequences for apprentice cement masons covering form setting, curing monitoring, and surface finishing standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Finishing gap identification — recognizes personal difficulty judging wet concrete consistency and seeks guidance from journeymen before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool selection reflection — pauses to consider whether a hand trowel or power trowel is appropriate for a given surface area before beginning finishing passes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Curing knowledge self-assessment — evaluates own understanding of temperature and humidity effects on set time and identifies areas needing further experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error pattern recognition — notices recurring bull float marks in own finished surfaces and adjusts overlap technique on subsequent pours Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Weather adaptation planning — deliberately reviews forecast conditions before each pour and pre-plans finishing sequence adjustments for hot, cold, or windy environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill transfer mapping — connects knowledge of form alignment precision to understanding of why slab drainage failures occur, strengthening diagnostic reasoning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous practice evaluation — systematically reflects on finishing quality across multiple project types and updates personal technique to meet evolving flatness and levelness tolerances Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge gap sponsorship — identifies which curing science concepts are weakest across the crew and arranges targeted field demonstrations to close those gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Form inspection assessment — checks form bracing and alignment against grade stakes and identifies obvious deviations before the pour begins Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Surface defect identification — distinguishes between a bleed-water surface and a ready-to-finish surface based on visual and tactile cues Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Environmental condition analysis — evaluates wind speed, air temperature, and direct sun exposure to determine whether evaporation retarder application is necessary Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Slump inference — assesses concrete workability upon arrival and reasons whether the mix is within specification or requires rejection before placement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Defect root cause diagnosis — analyzes crazing, scaling, or delamination patterns on hardened slabs to determine whether cause was finishing timing, mix design, or curing practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Grade verification logic — cross-checks screed rail elevations against blueprint control points and resolves discrepancies before concrete placement proceeds Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Complex pour sequence optimization — evaluates slab geometry, joint layout, and crew size to design a finishing sequence that eliminates cold joints and finishing bottlenecks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Specification conflict resolution — identifies contradictions between project drawings and concrete mix submittals, articulates the conflict to the engineer of record, and implements the corrected approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Signal coordination — works with a partner to relay truck driver positioning signals accurately during concrete discharge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adjacent trade awareness — avoids disrupting embedded conduit laid by electricians while spreading and screeding fresh concrete Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Screed team synchronization — coordinates movement and speed with a screed partner to maintain consistent strike-off elevation across wide form bays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pump operator teamwork — communicates hose repositioning needs to concrete pump operators in real time to maintain pour continuity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-trade pour scheduling — collaborates with plumbing, electrical, and framing crews to confirm all embedded work is complete and inspected before concrete placement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew load balancing — redistributes laborers between screed and consolidation tasks based on pour rate, preventing bottlenecks during large slab placements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. General contractor integration — participates in pre-construction planning meetings to align concrete finishing schedules with structural steel, formwork, and curing membrane procurement timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-crew knowledge transfer — facilitates joint field sessions where cement masons and laborers from different subcontractors standardize finishing quality benchmarks for a shared project Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Material honesty — reports accurately when a form is misaligned or a pour is not meeting grade rather than concealing the error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. PPE compliance — consistently wears knee pads, gloves, and waterproof boots when working with fresh concrete regardless of peer pressure or time pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Defect disclosure — notifies the foreman when a surface finish does not meet flatness specifications before covering it with curing compound or overlays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Schedule accountability — arrives on site before concrete trucks to ensure forms and tools are staged, honoring commitments to the pour crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Safety protocol enforcement — stops unsafe formwork from being filled even under schedule pressure, documenting the decision and notifying the superintendent Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality ownership — accepts responsibility for surface defects produced during own finishing shift and participates in corrective grinding or overlay work without deflecting blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical subcontract practice — advises clients honestly when a proposed slab design exceeds what concrete finishing can achieve without risk of long-term failure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional standard modeling — consistently demonstrates code-compliant joint spacing, proper curing duration, and accurate grade control, establishing site-wide quality norms for all trades Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Texture experimentation — attempts broom finish patterns at varying drag angles on a test slab section to produce different slip-resistance textures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Tool improvisation — adapts a straightedge as a temporary screed guide when a screed rail is unavailable during a small repair pour Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Expansion joint design adaptation — proposes alternative joint layout patterns to accommodate unusual slab shapes while maintaining crack control effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem surface rescue — develops a wet-grinding and re-troweling approach to salvage a blotchy burnished surface before the owner inspection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Decorative finish execution — applies exposed aggregate, stamped patterns, or colored hardener finishes to architectural concrete elements, adapting technique to material behavior Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workflow redesign — restructures the pour sequence on a constrained urban site to eliminate the need for a concrete pump by optimizing truck chute reach and buggy routes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Custom form engineering — designs reusable curved or contoured formwork solutions for complex architectural concrete features not covered by standard form systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Finishing innovation leadership — introduces new power trowel blade configurations or curing compound chemistries to the crew after evaluating results from trial applications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Correction acceptance — responds to journeyman feedback on trowel technique by immediately adjusting grip and pass speed rather than defending prior method Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill stretch commitment — volunteers to practice edging and jointing on smaller pours to build competence before working on large commercial slabs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Weather challenge persistence — continues refining curing monitoring skills across hot-weather and cold-weather pours rather than avoiding difficult environmental conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Defect learning extraction — after a surface delamination event, researches finishing timing principles and applies corrected bleed-water assessment criteria on the next pour Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Certification pursuit — completes ACI Flatwork Finisher certification to validate and expand technical knowledge beyond on-the-job experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New equipment mastery — dedicates time to learning laser screed or ride-on power trowel operation, treating the learning curve as a performance investment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Lifelong trade development — pursues advanced training in structural concrete repair, polished concrete, or pervious concrete installation to broaden occupational value across project types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew growth cultivation — frames every pour defect as a collective learning opportunity, structuring post-pour debriefs that build shared technical knowledge rather than assigning blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Concrete set awareness — maintains focused attention on surface sheen and stiffness changes throughout the finishing window to avoid missing the troweling moment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Fatigue monitoring — recognizes physical strain from kneeling and repetitive troweling and adjusts posture or requests a rotation before errors accumulate Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Environmental attention — sustains deliberate monitoring of wind, temperature, and humidity shifts during long pours, adjusting finishing pace before surface crusting occurs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Noise management — maintains situational awareness on a loud construction site by using established signal protocols rather than relying on voice communication near machinery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Curing process vigilance — maintains unbroken monitoring of curing compound coverage and plastic shrinkage crack development during the critical first 24 hours after placement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — manages frustration when concrete arrives out of slump specification, calmly coordinating rejection or adjustment rather than rushing placement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Intentional quality focus — models sustained attention to surface finish detail across full-shift pours, resisting shortcuts when fatigued and coaching crew members to do the same Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew attentiveness leadership — establishes pre-pour centering routines that orient the entire finishing crew to curing timeline, weather variables, and quality targets before concrete trucks arrive Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance initiation — completes a full finishing shift involving extended kneeling, shoveling, and troweling without withdrawing from assigned tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Weather exposure tolerance — continues assigned screeding and floating work through high heat or cold conditions while following hydration and warming protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Schedule pressure management — maintains finishing quality standards when concrete trucks arrive late and the placement window is compressed, avoiding rushed troweling errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Rework resilience — returns to a slab requiring full surface grinding after a finishing failure and completes corrective work without diminished effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Extended pour endurance — sustains effective finishing technique across a multi-hour large slab pour, prioritizing critical areas when fatigued to protect overall quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversity navigation — continues organized finishing operations when equipment failures or material delays disrupt the planned sequence, adapting in real time without abandoning quality standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis stabilization — leads the crew through a formwork blowout or unexpected cold snap, making rapid corrective decisions and sustaining team morale until the pour is stabilized Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term craft commitment — maintains high finishing standards across a full career of physically demanding pours, serving as an endurance and quality model for apprentices entering the trade Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Cement Mason · Cement Finisher · Cement Gun Operator · Cement Mason Concrete Finisher · Cement Patcher · Cementer · Column Precaster · Concrete Construction Laborer · Concrete Cutter · Concrete Cutting Operator · Concrete Fence Builder · Concrete Finisher
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0011 · Cement Mason
O*NET skills
MonitoringCoordinationQuality Control AnalysisSpeakingTime ManagementActive ListeningCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge domains
English LanguageBuilding and ConstructionPublic Safety and SecurityMathematics
Abilities
Manual DexterityTrunk StrengthMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionArm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionExtent FlexibilityStaminaDynamic StrengthProblem Sensitivity
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailCautiousnessStress TolerancePerseveranceAchievement Orientation
Technology
Information retrieval or search softwareAnalytical or scientific softwareProject management softwareAccounting software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Check the forms that hold the concrete to see that they are properly constructed.
  2. Set the forms that hold concrete to the desired pitch and depth, and align them.
  3. Spread, level, and smooth concrete, using rake, shovel, hand or power trowel, hand or power screed, and float.
  4. Monitor how the wind, heat, or cold affect the curing of the concrete throughout the entire process.
  5. Mold expansion joints and edges, using edging tools, jointers, and straightedge.
  6. Signal truck driver to position truck to facilitate pouring concrete, and move chute to direct concrete on forms.
  7. Direct the casting of the concrete and supervise laborers who use shovels or special tools to spread it.
  8. Produce rough concrete surface, using broom.
CIP education codes
46.0402

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.