Construction laborers are skilled workers
who do much of the physically demanding labor
at all kinds of construction projects,
from excavation to building and demolition.
Construction laborers use a variety of hand
and power tools to hammer, lift, saw,
and measure materials.
Depending on the specialty of their employer,
laborers might prepare a worksite,
dig trenches, mix and place concrete,
or even work with hazardous materials
or explosives.
Clean-up is usually in the job description.
In different phases of construction,
laborers assist other trades workers,
and may need to interpret plans
or specifications to set work priorities.
They may also direct traffic around a
work area to keep other workers safe.
But all construction laborers can
expect to do repetitive,
physically demanding work—
with noise, fumes, and dangers
that require safety gear
such as hard hats, gloves, face masks,
ear protectors, and eyewear.
Some employers require a high school diploma,
but related work experience, strength,
reliability, and safety
are often more important
to getting hired in this field.