Laborer

Job description

Laborers have duties ranging from clearing timber and brush, removing demolished materials from a job site, pouring concrete, landscaping, installing piping, handling materials, using explosives to demolish buildings or helping other trades workers. They are needed on all kinds of construction projects including buildings, highways, bridges, tunnels, sanitation and residential. Laborers typically perform work for the duration of the project. They must know how to work with their hands and use both power tools and hand tools

Working conditions

Laborers perform work both indoors and outdoors in all conditions. Work can be performed in the elements, at extreme heights, underground, and around water. There is a considerable amount of lifting, carrying, climbing, kneeling, balancing and even crawling. Jobs require strength, dexterity and alertness.  Laborers must be able to quickly learn the hazards and safety requirements of each job.  

Wages

Beginning apprentices start at 60 percent of the journey-level wage. Upon successful completion of required class work and on-the-job hours, wages increase usually every six months, until the journey-level rate is achieved.

Length of apprenticeship

Laborer apprenticeship lasts two years. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 144 related classroom hours per year and 4,000 on-the-job training hours. 

Minimum qualifications

Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Local apprenticeship committees may require additional qualifications such as proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent.

Practical Experience

Laborer programs are generally always accepting applications. Very little construction experience is necessary to get started in most cases. 

 Things you can do to build your resume and gain relevant experience and earn a wage while you wait include: 

• Complete a high school construction or metals program of study 

• Complete a pre-apprenticeship program 

• Gain work experience at a supply store such as ACE Hardware, Lowes or Home Depot 

• Join a fitness program to prepare yourself for the physicality of the job