As a Brick and Stone Mason with the Department of National Defence, you will be responsible for constructing, repairing, and maintaining brick, stone, and concrete masonry structures on Canadian Armed Forces bases and facilities across the country. Your work is essential to maintaining the physical infrastructure that supports military operations and personnel. You will interpret architectural drawings and specifications, prepare work sites, and execute masonry work according to established safety and quality standards.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include laying bricks and stones using mortar, cutting and shaping masonry materials, installing flashing and other weatherproofing elements, and ensuring all work meets building codes and project specifications. You will work both independently and as part of construction teams, collaborating with other trades professionals such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers. Physical fitness and attention to detail are essential, as the role demands precision work and the ability to work at heights or in confined spaces.
You will work in a dynamic environment that includes both indoor and outdoor settings across military installations. Seasonal variations may affect work schedules, and you may be required to travel to different DND facilities. Safety is paramount in this role, and you will be expected to follow all occupational health and safety regulations, use personal protective equipment, and contribute to a safety-conscious workplace culture.
Key Responsibilities
Perform masonry tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To enter this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many successful candidates have completed a provincial apprenticeship program in masonry, which usually involves 6,000 to 8,000 hours of on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction over three to four years. Some provinces offer trade certifications or Red Seal endorsements that are recognized across Canada and may be required depending on the specific posting.
Once employed with DND, you will receive comprehensive on-the-job training specific to federal building standards, safety protocols, and the unique infrastructure maintenance requirements of Canadian Armed Forces facilities. You will have access to professional development opportunities including advanced masonry techniques, supervisory training, and health and safety certifications. Pursuing and maintaining your Red Seal certification is encouraged, as it demonstrates competency across Canada and may support career advancement within the organization.
Entry Plans
Entry into this position as a civilian employee of DND typically occurs through advertised competitions on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). Positions are posted when vacancies arise at various military installations, and competition processes follow federal Public Service staffing rules. Interested candidates should create a profile on the Government of Canada Job Bank and set up job alerts for Brick and Stone Mason positions.
You may enter as a new employee with relevant trade credentials or apprenticeship completion, or you may transition into this role through lateral moves if you hold equivalent masonry experience and credentials recognized by the federal government. Prior military service, including time as a Construction Engineer or similar trade in the Canadian Armed Forces, may facilitate your application. Some candidates gain initial experience through student or youth employment programs and later convert to permanent positions. We encourage you to regularly check postings, as competition timelines and hiring needs vary by region and fiscal year.
Part-Time Options
Brick and Stone Mason positions with DND are typically full-time permanent roles, as the nature of masonry work and infrastructure maintenance requires consistent, ongoing presence on project sites. However, depending on operational needs and facility locations, some flexible scheduling may be available during certain phases of construction or maintenance projects.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as masonry is hands-on trades work that must be performed on-site at DND facilities and military installations. Part-time or casual employment opportunities in masonry with DND are limited but may occasionally be available for specific short-term projects or seasonal maintenance work. Interested candidates should inquire about temporary or contract opportunities when contacting local DND civilian HR offices or reviewing postings for term positions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
