Crucial to the completion of building projects both small and large, construction laborers perform a variety of physical tasks on construction sites. Duties may include site cleaning and preparation, trench digging, brace and scaffolding set up and removal of rubble, debris and other materials. As a laborer, you may be called upon to use an array of hand and power tools, such as earth tampers, cement mixers, air hammers and surveying and measuring implements, among others. Some construction laborers work primarily as helpers for specific trades, such as plumbers, carpenters or electricians.Demand for workers to fill this job is anticipated to increase significantly each year, with nearly 49,000 annual openings projected. These openings will be the result of growth in the construction industry, as well as the need to replace workers.
Construction Laborers Skills and Abilities
To excel at this job, you should have at least a basic knowledge of building and construction, including the common materials, methods and tools used on a work site. Understanding and being able to apply practical math is an asset, as are strong listening skills, communication skills and reading comprehension. This is a physical job, so you also need to have manual dexterity and enough strength to lift, push, pull and carry heavy objects.
Construction Laborers Duties
As a construction laborer, you will be called on to perform a wide range of tasks. In general, these may include physical labor, such as hauling, positioning and installing materials; inspecting equipment, materials and structures; and operating tools, vehicles and other equipment. Some common duties include:
- Digging holes and trenches
- Breaking up hardscapes
- Installing plumbing
- Directing vehicular traffic
Construction Laborers Tools and Technology
Knowledge of how to use – and being able to quickly learn how to use – an array of hand and mechanical tools is essential to success in this job. Levels and measuring equipment, power saws, forklifts, wheelbarrows and blow torchers are among tools commonly used by construction laborers.
Education and Training for Construction Laborers
There are no education or training requirements for this job. The skills required to be a construction laborer typically are learned on the job. As you become more skilled, you may be assigned more specialized tasks.
Construction Laborers Salary
Nationwide, the median wage for this job is $14.95 per hour, with the lowest-paid 10 percent making about $9.70 per hour and the highest-paid 10 percent being paid nearly $29 per hour. Among the 50 states, you’re likely to make the most in Illinois, where the median wage is $23.76 and the least in Arkansas, which has a median wage of $11.38.
Construction Laborers Jobs by Geography
Employment forecasts show Nevada, Arizona and Washington having the highest demand for construction laborers, while Maine, Maryland and Arkansas will require fewer people to fill this job.