Explore how your federal experience as a Masonry (GS-3603) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Laborer, Masonry Assistant, Junior Mason, Construction Helper | Assist in laying brick, block, and stone; prepare work area; mix mortar and create materials as directed; follow instructions from skilled masons. | $25,000 - $35,000 |
| 5-7 | Mason, Skilled Mason, Construction Technician, Renovation Specialist | Perform complex masonry tasks including constructing and repairing walls, fireplaces, and other structures; interpret blueprints; ensure quality control of work. | $35,000 - $55,000 |
| 8-9 | Masonry Supervisor, Mason Lead, Project Coordinator, Construction Foreman | Oversee a team of masons on construction projects; manage timelines and budgets; ensure adherence to safety regulations; train and mentor junior staff. | $55,000 - $75,000 |
| 10-11 | Construction Manager, Masonry Project Manager, Site Superintendent, Field Operations Manager | Plan and execute masonry projects; collaborate with architects and engineers; allocate resources effectively; address and resolve project issues; ensure compliance with codes. | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| 12-13 | Senior Project Manager, Director of Masonry Operations, Construction Director, Principal Masonry Specialist | Lead large-scale masonry operations; develop strategic plans; oversee budgeting and cost control; maintain client and stakeholder relationships; drive innovation in masonry techniques. | $95,000 - $130,000 |
| 14-15 | Vice President of Construction, Chief Masonry Officer, Executive Director of Construction Operations, Senior Vice President of Estimating | Set vision and strategy for masonry division; oversee multiple project managers; ensure high-level client satisfaction; drive profitability and operational excellence; represent the organization at industry forums. | $130,000 - $180,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive of Masonry Construction, Chief Operations Officer for Masonry Services, Vice President of Strategic Construction Initiatives, Executive Vice President of Operations | Provide executive leadership to all masonry operations; shape organizational strategy; engage with senior stakeholders and federal agencies; drive corporate performance and transformation initiatives. | $180,000 - $250,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Masonry Technician (CMT)
The Certified Masonry Technician certification validates a professional's knowledge and skills in the area of masonry, including materials, methods, and safety practices. Obtaining this certification can enhance an individual's credibility and demonstrate a commitment to quality workmanship, appealing to employers in construction and masonry-related fields.
American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certification
The ACI offers various certifications relevant to masonry, such as Concrete Field Testing Technician and Concrete Masonry Technician. These credentials not only assure potential employers of an individual's expertise in concrete and masonry but also demonstrate the ability to meet industry standards in construction practices.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certification
NCCER offers a comprehensive curriculum and certification program that covers masonry fundamentals and advanced techniques. Becoming NCCER certified can provide a significant advantage by showcasing a recognized credential that's valued by employers across the construction industry.
OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification
This certification educates workers on crucial safety practices and regulations that ensure a safe working environment in the construction industry. Holding an OSHA 30 certification is highly regarded by employers, as it demonstrates an individual's commitment to safety and compliance in the workplace.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accreditation
LEED accreditation focuses on principles of sustainable construction and green building practices, which are increasingly sought after in the civilian construction sector. This credential can position an individual as a forward-thinking candidate who can contribute to environmentally responsible projects.
Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
The PMP certification reflects a professional’s ability to effectively lead and manage projects, applicable to various roles in construction and masonry. This certification is advantageous in the civilian sector as it signifies strong organizational skills and the ability to handle large-scale projects efficiently.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-3603 Masonry role to a private sector job can be a fulfilling journey, tapping into your existing skills while opening up new opportunities. Below are key strategies to make this transition smooth and successful.
Embrace Flexibility: Unlike the structured and sometimes rigid nature of federal jobs, private sector roles often require adaptability. Embrace the idea of being versatile in your role and ready for change, taking on diverse responsibilities as needed.
Value of Innovation: Federal positions can sometimes prioritize protocols and regulations. In the private sector, creativity and innovation are key. Develop a mindset that appreciates new ideas and approaches to problems.
Focus on Impact: In the federal space, success may be measured by adherence to processes. In contrast, the private sector often assesses performance by results and impact. Aim to highlight how your work has led to improvements, cost savings, or enhanced efficiency.
Translate Your Experience: Federal job titles and GS codes can be confusing to those outside of government. Instead, focus on skills, projects, and contributions. For example, rather than stating you are a “Masonry Worker,” you might want to say “Skilled Masonry Professional with expertise in constructing and repairing masonry structures, ensuring compliance with safety and building codes.”
Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to showcase your work impact. Instead of saying, "Performed masonry repairs," use, "Successfully completed over 150 masonry restoration projects, improving structural integrity and aesthetics, while reducing costs by 20%."
Tailor for Each Job Application: Customize your resume for each role you apply for. Look at the job description and reflect its language in your resume. This not only shows that you are a good fit but also increases your chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Research the Company: Understand the organization's goals, values, and culture to communicate effectively during the interview. This preparation shows that you are genuinely interested and helps frame your responses accordingly.
Behavioral Questions: Prepare for situational and behavioral interview questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Frame your federal experiences using this technique to demonstrate your proven problem-solving capabilities.
Highlight Soft Skills: Alongside your technical masonry skills, discuss key soft skills essential in the private sector such as teamwork, communication, and customer service. For instance, share how you effectively communicated with clients or collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams.
Connect on LinkedIn: Create or update your LinkedIn profile, emphasizing your masonry skills and experiences. Join groups related to masonry, construction, or trades, and actively participate to expand your connections.
Attend Trade Shows and Networking Events: Look for industry-related networking events, construction trade shows, or local chapter meetings of relevant professional organizations. Managing face-to-face connections can significantly aid the job search.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals working in roles you’re interested in. Request informational interviews to discuss their experiences and insights about the private sector, which can also help in your job search.
Identify Core Competencies: Understand the core competencies needed in masonry roles within the private sector, such as project management, estimating, or customer engagement. Rework your experiences to align with these competencies.
Use Industry Terminology: Familiarize yourself with terminology and jargon commonly used in the private construction industry. Replace federal terms with their private sector equivalents where applicable — for instance, “adherence to federal guidelines” could become “ensured compliance with industry standards.”
Showcase Relevant Projects: Highlight specific projects you've worked on that translate well into the private sector. Mention any collaborations with private companies, use of advanced tools or technologies, and any innovations you initiated.
Transitioning to the private sector from a GS-3603 Masonry role represents not only a career change, but an opportunity for personal growth and development. With the right mindset, a well-crafted resume, and proactive networking, you can successfully navigate this transition. Remember to stay positive, adaptable, and focused on your unique skills and experiences. You have a wealth of knowledge to offer; let it shine as you embark on this new professional journey.