Pilaster
A pilaster is a decorative architectural feature that looks like a column but is actually built flat against a wall. Think of it as a "fake column" that adds visual interest and sometimes structural support to buildings. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates that the candidate has experience with more detailed, ornamental masonry work rather than just basic wall construction. This kind of work often appears in historical restoration, high-end residential projects, or commercial buildings trying to achieve a classical or elegant look.
Examples in Resumes
Installed Pilaster elements on multiple historic building restoration projects
Constructed decorative Pilasters for luxury home facades
Led team in repair and reconstruction of damaged Pilaster features on municipal buildings
Typical job title: "Masonry Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Masonry Workers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan and execute a complex pilaster installation project?
Expected Answer: A senior mason should discuss project planning, material selection, ensuring proper structural support, coordinating with architects, and managing a team while maintaining historical accuracy or design specifications.
Q: How do you handle restoration of damaged historical pilasters?
Expected Answer: Should explain assessment procedures, matching historical materials, documentation requirements, preservation techniques, and working with preservation architects or historical societies.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What considerations do you take into account when building a pilaster?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper foundation preparation, weather protection, ensuring vertical alignment, proper bonding with the main wall, and following architectural specifications.
Q: How do you ensure proper measurements and symmetry in pilaster work?
Expected Answer: Should explain measuring techniques, use of layout tools, importance of symmetry in architectural features, and methods for maintaining consistent spacing and alignment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a pilaster and how is it different from a column?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a pilaster is a decorative element that looks like a column but is attached to a wall, and understand basic construction principles.
Q: What basic tools and materials are needed for pilaster construction?
Expected Answer: Should know standard masonry tools, measuring equipment, and common materials used in pilaster construction including different types of stone or brick.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic masonry techniques
- Tool and material knowledge
- Simple pilaster construction
- Following project plans
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex architectural details
- Project coordination
- Material estimation
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Project management
- Historical restoration expertise
- Team leadership
- Complex architectural features
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with ornamental or decorative masonry
- Lack of knowledge about proper measuring and layout techniques
- No understanding of architectural drawings or specifications
- Poor knowledge of different masonry materials and their properties
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