Occupation Details
Construction Laborers
Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites. May operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, small mechanical hoists, surveying and measuring equipment, and a variety of other equipment and instruments. May clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations, erect scaffolding, and clean up rubble, debris, and other waste materials. May assist other craft workers.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Working Conditions
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$36,700.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$58,160.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$75,450.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
80,320
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
99,040
+1,872 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
10,579
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
School Programs information is not available for this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT Southern Tier Laborers JAC #621
Olean, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JAC) for the Southern Tier Laborers, Local Union #621, will conduct a recruitment from March 10, 2025 through December 31, 2025 for four Skilled Construction Craft Laborer apprentices. Applications must be obtained by scheduling an appointment by calling (716) 372-2639 on Monday Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding major holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications can be printed on line at: www.laborers621.com and brought to the schedule appointment or obtained in person at the 1521 North Union Street, Olean, NY 14760 during time of scheduled appointment. A basic math test will be given at the time of application. All applications must be received by December 31, 2025.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Must attest in writing that they are physically able to perform the work of the trade, including: Working with sharp objects and hazardous machinery. Working in environments with possible exposure to loud noise and respiratory irritants. Regularly standing and lifting, and repeated squatting and/or bending. Working indoors and outdoors in extreme temperatures, and in all types of weather. Must be able to lift and/or move heavy objects and equipment that are at least 50 lbs. Working from heights using ladders and scaffolds. Must pass a Non-Department of Transportation (DOT) drug screening, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. May also be required to pass a medical exam at the expense of the sponsor after selection. Must pass a basic math test with a minimum score of at least 80%. The test will be given at the time of application. Must have a valid drivers license in order to operate company vehicles on public roads. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be willing to travel to various job sites within the jurisdiction of the program sponsor, which includes Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties in Southwestern NY. Must be legally able to work in the United States.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Southern Tier Laborers JAC, Local Union #621 at (716) 372-2639. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers). Laborer Union for commercial construction industry
Program Dates
Contact Information
Olean, NY 14760
AT Construction & General Laborers LU #633
East Syracuse, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Construction and General Laborers, Local Union #633, will conduct a recruitment from May 21, 2025 through April 15, 2026 for six Skilled Construction Craft Laborer apprentices. Applications may be obtained from Construction and General Laborers, Local Union #633, 7051 Fly Road, East Syracuse, NY 13057, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. All applications must be received no later than April 15, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma, a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED), or a minimum of five years of documented experience in the trade. Must attest to being physically capable of performing the work of a Skilled Construction Craft Laborer, which may include: Working at heights of up to 150 feet. Working in confined spaces. Lifting 50 pounds or more. Must submit to a follicle drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must have a valid drivers license. Apprentices may be required to operate company vehicles. Must be willing to join Local Union #633. Must provide DD-214, certificate of release or discharge from active duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Construction and General Laborers, Local Union #633 at (315) 471-1591. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
East Syracuse, NY 13057
AT L.I.U.N.A. Local #785 Ithaca Region
Ithaca, NY
Announcement
The Laborers International Union of North America, Local Union #785, will conduct a recruitment from April 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026 for 20 Skilled Construction Craft Laborer apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have minimally completed 10th grade education. Must attest in writing that they are physically able to perform the work of the trade, which may include: Working with sharp objects and hazardous machinery. Possible exposure to loud noises and respiratory irritants. Prolonged lifting, standing, and walking. Repetitive squatting, kneeling, and bending. Working in extreme temperatures and all types of weather conditions. Lifting and moving heavy objects. Working off and climbing ladders and scaffolds at various heights. Must possess a valid drivers license to operate contractor vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from required classes at the approved school and various job sites throughout the jurisdictional area. The jurisdiction of Local Union #785 includes: All of Broome, Chemung, Cortland, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins Counties. Chenango County The entire county with exception of the townships of Sherburne, Columbus, and New Berlin. Delaware County The townships of Sidney, Masonville, Walton, Tompkins, Deposit, Hancock, and Colchester.
How to Apply
Applications will be available at Local Union #785, 622 West State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications may be filled out online at https://www.laborers785.org/join-local-785. Applications must be received by no later than March 31, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Laborers Local # 785 at (607) 272-3122. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Ithaca, NY 14850
AT Eastern New York Laborers Training Center
Glenmont, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Eastern New York Laborers Training Center will conduct a recruitment from May 30, 2025 through May 29, 2026 for 10 Skilled Construction Craft Laborer apprentices. Please note that total of 10 openings are for the Albany area and the Utica area. All applications must be completed on-site for both locations. For the Albany area, applications can be obtained on the third Friday of each month, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., excluding legal holidays, at the Eastern New York Laborers Training Center, 666 Wemple Road, Glenmont, NY 12077; the Eastern Contractors Association, 6 Airline Drive, Albany, NY 12205; and the Laborers International Union, 348 Duanesburg Road, Schenectady, NY 12306. For the Utica area, applications will be available on the last Thursday of each month, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., excluding legal holidays, at 10 Main Street, Suite 205, Whitesboro, NY 13492. All applications must be received by no later than May 29, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 17 years old. Must take physical examination and drug test at the sponsors expense after the offer of employment. Must have a valid drivers license. Apprentices may be required to operate company vehicles. Must be a resident of New York State. Must have six months of construction experience. Must be able to work both day and evening shifts, as needed. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Eastern New York Laborers Training Center at (518) 426-0290. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers)
Program Dates
Contact Information
Glenmont, NY 12077
AT Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers LU #3 (Rochester)
Pittsford, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local #3 (Rochester), will conduct a recruitment from October 4, 2025 through October 3, 2026 for eight Bricklayer and Mason apprentices, four Tile Setter apprentices, four Tile, Marble, and Terrazzo Finisher apprentices and four Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentices. Applications are available online during the recruitment period at https://bac3ny.com/training-education-safety/apprentice-training-program. Applicants must print the online application to complete it. Completed applications can be left in the entrance to the BAC LU #3 JATC Office at 33 Saginaw Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, or in the drop box outside of the office. Completed applications can also be mailed to BAC LU #3 JATC, 33 Saginaw Drive, Rochester, NY 14623. If unable to print the application, please call (585) 641-0750 between the hours of 8:00AM-4:00PM Monday-Friday (excluding legal holidays) and you will be mailed an application.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment. Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work required of the trade, which may include: Standing and kneeling for prolonged periods of time. Climbing and working off of lifts, ladders and scaffolds. Repetitive bending and stooping. Must have near vision to read blueprints and depth perception to verify alignment of stones, bricks and blocks. Verifying trueness of alignment of stones, bricks, and blocks using a plumb bob. Lifting, carrying, and positioning materials weighing up to 40 pounds. Possible exposure to loud noises and respiratory irritants such as dust and chemicals; the use of personal protective equipment may be required. Working in confined spaces and outside in all weather conditions. Must pass a physical and a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after the offer of employment. Must also submit to random drug testing which may be administered at any time during the apprenticeship. Must provide their own hand tools as appropriate for the trade. Estimated cost of tools is approximately $100-$500 depending on the trade. Must provide proof of employment authorization to work in the United States, at the time of offer. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #3 (Rochester) at (585) 641-0750. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Pittsford, NY 14534
AT General Building Laborers LU #66
Melville, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for General Building Laborers, Local Union #66, will conduct a recruitment from August 13, 2025 through August 12, 2026 for 20 Skilled Construction Craft Laborer apprentices. Applications must be completed, in person only during the allotted time, at General Building Laborers, Local Union #66, 1600 Walt Whitman Road, Melville, NY 11747, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. All applications must be received no later than August 12, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must take and pass a drug test, at the applicants expense, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work of a Skilled Construction Craft Laborer, which may include: Lifting and carrying an aggregate of approximately 94 pounds, for 25 feet, and restacking it to a height of approximately 54 inches. Loading approximately half of a cubic yard of material with a shovel into a wheelbarrow, wheeling it 30 feet, and depositing it into a container. Working at heights of 10 feet or higher. Working in confined spaces. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various jobsites and required classes at the approved school. Must have a valid New York State drivers license. Apprentices may be required to drive company vehicles. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must take and pass an assessment written examination (includes Math, Measurement & Reading). Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local Union #66 for at least six months prior to application. This includes Nassau and Suffolk counties. Must become a union member if accepted into the apprenticeship program.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for General Building Laborers, Local Union #66 at (631) 454-2330. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Melville, NY 11747
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Social Orientation
Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air compressors
- Air drills
- Air monitoring equipment
- Asphalt kettles
- Asphalt mops
- Asphalt saws
- Axes
- Bale hooks
- Bandsaws
- Belt conveyors
- Bench grinders
- Bosun chairs
- Brick carrier forks
- Brick hammers
- Brick tongs
- Cable pullers
- Calipers
- Carpenters' levels
- Carpenters' squares
- Caulking guns
- Chain saws
- Chip spreaders
- Chipping guns
- Circular saws
- Cold chisels
- Concrete mixers
- Concrete pumpers
- Concrete saws
Technology
- Autodesk Revit
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- measure and mark lay out for construction projects
- verify levelness or verticality, using level or plumb bob
- work as a team member
- adhere to safety procedures
- perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
- apply cleaning solvents
- apply adhesives, caulking, sealants, or coatings
- paint walls or other structural surfaces
- climb ladders, scaffolding, or utility or telephone poles
- cut, shape, fit, or join wood or other construction materials
- build or repair structures in construction, repair, or manufacturing setting
- erect scaffold
- install prefabricated building components
- install siding or sheeting
- move or fit heavy objects
- clean rooms or work areas
- prepare site or surfaces for concrete or masonry work
- prepare building surfaces for paint, finishes, wallpaper, or adhesives
- apply plaster, stucco or related material
- anchor or brace wooden structures, frameworks, or forms
- repair cracks, defects, or damage in installed building materials
- install insulating materials
- dig holes or trenches for foundations, posts, poles, or related items
- load, unload, or stack containers, materials, or products
- mix mortar, grout, slurry, concrete, or related masonry material
- move materials or goods between work areas
- signal directions or warnings to coworkers
- use basic carpentry techniques
- use concrete fabrication techniques
- use hazardous materials information
- use hazardous disposal techniques
- maintain or repair construction machinery or equipment
- lubricate machinery, equipment, or parts
- position, align, or level machines, equipment, or structures
- clean equipment or machinery
- assemble and install pipe sections, fittings, or plumbing fixtures
- finish concrete surfaces
- mix paint, ingredients, or chemicals, according to specifications
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- assist mechanic, or extractive or construction trades craft worker
- grade or redistribute earth for roads or other construction
- understand construction specifications
- control operation of compressors
- use hand or power woodworking tools
- operate power construction equipment
- operate power driven pumps
- use spray paint equipment
- use hand or power tools
- operate land or site surveying instruments
- use measuring devices in construction or extraction work
- use surfacing machine to polish terrazzo or concrete
- operate floor sanding machine
- operate pneumatic tamper to patch pavement or tamp earth
- operate jackhammer
- operate hoist, winch, or hydraulic boom
- read tape measure
- read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Use computers or other input devices to control robotic pipe cutters or cleaners.
- Perform construction laborer duties at green building sites, such as renewable energy plants or wind turbine installations.
- Tend pumps, compressors, or generators to provide power for tools, machinery, or equipment or to heat or move materials, such as asphalt.
- Lubricate, clean, or repair machinery, equipment, or tools.
- Signal equipment operators to facilitate alignment, movement, or adjustment of machinery, equipment, or materials.
- Position, join, align, or seal structural components, such as concrete wall sections or pipes.
- Perform site activities required of green certified construction practices, such as implementing waste management procedures, identifying materials for reuse, or installing erosion or sedimentation control mechanisms.
- Control traffic passing near, in, or around work zones.
- Install sewer, water, or storm drain pipes, using pipe-laying machinery or laser guidance equipment.
- Operate or maintain air monitoring or other sampling devices in confined or hazardous environments.
- Read plans, instructions, or specifications to determine work activities.
- Smooth or finish freshly poured cement or concrete, using floats, trowels, screeds, or powered cement finishing tools.
- Measure, mark, or record openings or distances to layout areas where construction work will be performed.
- Erect or dismantle scaffolding, shoring, braces, traffic barricades, ramps, or other temporary structures.
- Clean or prepare construction sites to eliminate possible hazards.
- Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, or compact and level earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, or rakes.
- Load, unload, or identify building materials, machinery, or tools, distributing them to the appropriate locations, according to project plans or specifications.
- Provide assistance to craft workers, such as carpenters, plasterers, or masons.
- Perform building weatherization tasks, such as repairing windows, adding insulation, or applying weather-stripping materials.
- Apply weather-stripping to reduce energy loss.
- Spray materials, such as water, sand, steam, vinyl, paint, or stucco, through hoses to clean, coat, or seal surfaces.
- Raze buildings or salvage useful materials.
- Mop, brush, or spread paints, cleaning solutions, or other compounds over surfaces to clean them or to provide protection.
- Position or dismantle forms for pouring concrete, using saws, hammers, nails, or bolts.
- Grind, scrape, sand, or polish surfaces, such as concrete, marble, terrazzo, or wood flooring, using abrasive tools or machines.
- Place, consolidate, or protect case-in-place concrete or masonry structures.
- Mix ingredients to create compounds for covering or cleaning surfaces.
- Mix, pour, or spread concrete, using portable cement mixers.
- Operate jackhammers or drills to break up concrete or pavement.
- Apply caulking compounds by hand or caulking guns to protect against entry of water or air.
- Tend machines that pump concrete, grout, cement, sand, plaster, or stucco through spray guns for application to ceilings or walls.
- Identify, pack, or transport hazardous or radioactive materials.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Construction laborers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
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