Task statements

  • Locate grain line patterns to determine how rocks will split when cut.
  • Remove pieces of stone from larger masses, using jackhammers, wedges, and other tools.
  • Insert wedges and feathers into holes, and drive wedges with sledgehammers to split stone sections from masses.
  • Mark dimensions or outlines on stone prior to cutting, using rules and chalk lines.
  • Cut slabs of stone into sheets that will be used for floors or counters.
  • Set charges of explosives to split rock.
  • Drill holes along outlines, using jackhammers.
  • Drill holes into sides of stones broken from masses, insert dogs or attach slings, and direct removal of stones.
  • Cut grooves along outlines, using chisels.

Career and skills data: O*NET 31.0 (onetcenter.org). Figures are published survey estimates, not real-time market data.