Mason/Plasterer Apprentice

Join the UVA Mason Apprenticeship Program!

Facilities Management at the University of Virginia is now accepting applications for the Mason/Plaster Apprenticeship Program. UVA's highly regarded Apprenticeship Program began in 1982 and was the first of its kind initiated by a state agency. This unique single-craft program provides an opportunity to gain experience in a craft occupation while working full-time at UVA. Apprentices support Facilities Management's goal of providing consistent, cost-effective, and reliable service to the University's facilities.

The Mason Apprenticeship Program's single-craft track trains employees to become skilled Modern and Historic Masons while becoming cross-trained in Modern and Historic Plaster. Apprentices support new construction as well as the maintenance, preservation, and conservation of the University's grounds and community — including its UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Training & Program Structure:

Through extensive training, apprentices gain foundational knowledge within the masonry and plaster craft occupation. Apprentices learn through a combination of on-the-job training and related technical instruction, which is completed outside of work hours. Apprentices are trained in workplace safety and health for the construction and maintenance environment, as well as behavioral competencies to further their career. The University covers the cost of all tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), and uniforms.

The Mason Apprenticeship is a four-year program with selected candidates being hired into a one-year restricted positions, which can be renewed annually based on the individual's performance. Interim milestones for demonstrated progress on skills development will be provided, and the University provides all training and supplemental courses.

Program details are available on the Facilities Management website: https://apprenticeship.fm.virginia.edu/index.html

Working Environment & Conditions:

• Employees will be required to lift various weights up to 50 lbs. and climb ladders and stairs to complete jobs. The use of both hands in a repetitive motion is required while performing duties. The ability to tolerate working in extreme temperatures, at heights as high as 30 feet, and in confined spaces — all while carrying tools and parts — is required.

• Employees must be able to participate in the University's Respiratory Protection Program, which includes medical clearance for respirator use, completing respirator fit testing, and wearing required respiratory protection when performing designated tasks.

• Standard working hours are Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

• Some evening, night, or weekend work may be required due to scheduled overtime or to respond to emergency events, including inclement weather. This role will be required to assist in snow duty.

Responsibilities:

• Assist skilled journey-level mechanics in performing preventive maintenance, repairs, construction, and the preservation and conservation of the University of Viriginia – UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Perform all work in accordance with safety and health rules and procedures, such as OSHA and federal, state, and local regulations.

• Develop increasing familiarity with the skills and best practices of the assigned trade.

• Actively participate in on-the-job training and related instructional training.

• Actively communicate with the Apprenticeship Program, the on-the-job mentor, and the supervisor of the assigned area.

• Complete Related Technical Instruction (RTI), which is expected to be conducted outside of work hours.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Applicants must possess a high school diploma or equivalent by the start date of the position.

• Ability to read, comprehend, and communicate clearly in the English language at a minimum 9th-grade level.

• Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age by the start date of the position.

• Ability to pass comprehensive reference and background checks.

• Health Screening/Vaccination: This position requires compliance with https://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-034. Vaccinations may be required in accordance with University policy and/or applicable state and federal regulations.

Compensation & Benefits:

This is a non-exempt, benefit-eligible position with paid vacation and holidays. The minimum starting salary is $21.00/hour. Employee benefits package highlights include:

• 22 days of paid time off, increasing with service; 15+ paid holidays each year, in addition to paid time off; Parental and Community Service Leave.
• Health plan options.
• Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee wellness program with activities to earn up to $500/year.

To Apply:

The online application deadline is December 1, 2026.

Please apply online and search for R0088656. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website. Complete the application, and upload the following Required materials:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Letter of Recommendation

Upload all materials into the resume submission field; multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission.

Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

References will be completed via UVA’s standardized process Skill Survey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three references are required.

For information about the apprenticeship and training please contact: 434-297-6379 or fm-apprenticeship@virginia.edu.

For information about the application process or general questions about employment at the University, please contact Marcus Rozier, Academic Recruiter at hjv5vm@virginia.edu.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.