what is a general laborer?

General laborers are the backbone of many industries, taking on versatile roles across various fields. As a general laborer, your primary responsibility is to assist with physical tasks in construction, maintenance, and other manual, labor-intensive duties. You play a crucial role in ensuring that projects run smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the overall success of the team and the organization.

In construction, general laborers help set up and dismantle equipment, move materials and supplies, and assist skilled workers with their tasks. They may also be involved in digging trenches, pouring concrete, and operating machinery under the guidance of experienced professionals. In maintenance, general laborers perform routine repairs, conduct inspections, and handle general upkeep to keep facilities and equipment in optimal condition.

In addition to construction and maintenance, general laborers work in various other settings, such as warehouses, factories, landscaping, and transportation. They may load and unload shipments, organize inventory, and keep work areas tidy and hazard-free. Some general laborers even work outdoors, tackling tasks like mowing lawns, clearing snow, and maintaining landscaping.

As a general laborer, you must adapt to different environments and follow instructions carefully. Your physical strength, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team are essential for completing various tasks. While you may not directly interact with customers or clients, your contributions are fundamental to the smooth functioning of the organization. Whether you're repairing, cleaning, lifting, or organizing, general laborers play a vital role in keeping operations running efficiently and effectively.

Would working as a general laborer suit your skill or interest? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a general laborer role.

view jobs near you
1

average general laborer salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for general laborers is approximately $33,000 per year. However, the pay varies, with entry-level positions starting at around $22,000 and experienced laborers earning up to $50,000 annually. Factors such as the industry, location, and level of expertise can influence earnings. General laborers play a crucial role in various fields, contributing to construction, maintenance, and manual labor tasks. While their salaries may be more modest compared to some specialized professions, their hard work and dedication form the backbone of many industries, ensuring the smooth functioning of day-to-day operations.

Wondering what you can earn as a general laborer? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a general laborer is.

Focused male looking down to phone in production site.
Focused male looking down to phone in production site.
2

types of general laborer

General laborers encompass diverse positions, each contributing to various industries and fields. Here are some of the key types of general laborer roles:

  • construction laborer: Construction laborers work on building sites, assisting with various tasks such as carrying materials, operating machinery, and preparing construction sites for further work.
  • warehouse laborer: Warehouse laborers handle inventory management, loading and unloading shipments, and ensuring the smooth operation of warehouse facilities.
  • landscaping laborer: Landscaping laborers maintain outdoor spaces, performing tasks like mowing lawns, trimming bushes, planting, and ensuring visually appealing landscapes.
  • manufacturing laborer: Manufacturing laborers work in production facilities, operating machinery, assembling products, and performing quality checks to ensure efficient manufacturing processes.
  • maintenance laborer: Maintenance laborers focus on the upkeep and repair of buildings and equipment, conducting routine inspections, and addressing any issues that may arise.
  • demolition laborer: Demolition laborers are involved in tearing down structures and removing debris safely and efficiently.
  • cleaning and janitorial laborer: These laborers are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in various settings, including offices, schools, and public spaces, ensuring a safe and sanitary environment.
  • agricultural laborer: Agricultural laborers work in farms and fields, assisting with planting, harvesting, and other agricultural tasks.
  • road construction laborer: Road construction laborers are involved in road-building projects, assisting with pavement and asphalt work and ensuring road safety measures are in place.

General laborers play a crucial role across multiple industries, contributing their skills and hard work to ensure the smooth functioning and progress of various projects and operations.

3

working as a general laborer

Working as a general laborer offers a diverse and dynamic career path with various job opportunities in multiple industries. In the following sections, we explore the job description, work environment, colleagues, work schedule, and job outlook for those pursuing a career as a general laborer.

4

general laborer skills and education

Entering the field of general laborers does not require formal higher education, but certain qualifications and training can enhance job prospects and lead to better opportunities for advancement. While a high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient to begin as a general laborer, specialized training and certifications could provide a competitive edge.

Those who work as general laborers typically have the following education and qualifications:

  • high school diploma or GED: Most general laborer positions require a minimum of a high school education to demonstrate basic literacy and numeracy skills.
  • vocational or trade school: Completing construction, welding, or machinery operation programs can improve technical skills and employability.
  • apprenticeships: Participating in apprenticeship programs allows individuals to learn on-the-job skills under the guidance of experienced professionals, leading to journeyman or specialized roles.
  • certifications: Obtaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, forklift operation, or first aid, could increase job prospects and demonstrate commitment to safety and professionalism.

Continuing education and gaining certifications could open doors to advancement opportunities. Aspiring general laborers may choose to obtain specialized certifications in areas like welding, forklift operation, or first aid. These certifications not only enhance skill sets but also demonstrate dedication and expertise to potential employers, increasing the chances of career progression.

skills and competencies

To excel in the general laborer role and advance in the job field, individuals should possess diverse skills and competencies. These may include:

  • physical stamina: General laborers need to be physically fit and capable of handling demanding tasks, including heavy lifting and prolonged periods of standing or bending.
  • adaptability: Adapting to various work environments and tasks is essential, as general laborers often encounter diverse projects and responsibilities.
  • problem-solving: Being able to assess situations, identify issues, and find practical solutions is valuable in addressing challenges that may arise on the job.
  • teamwork: General laborers frequently collaborate with others, so strong teamwork skills are necessary to ensure effective communication and cooperation.
  • time management: Efficiently managing time and prioritizing tasks is crucial to meet project deadlines and maintain productivity.
  • attention to detail: Paying close attention to details helps general laborers ensure accuracy and safety, reducing the risk of errors or accidents.
  • safety consciousness: Prioritizing safety protocols and adhering to guidelines is vital to prevent workplace accidents and maintain a secure work environment.
  • technical skills: Depending on the specific role, general laborers may need to operate machinery, use tools, or follow technical instructions, requiring technical proficiency.
  • willingness to learn: Remaining open to learning new skills and staying updated on industry practices enhances a general laborer's versatility and potential for career growth.

By cultivating these skills and continuously seeking opportunities for improvement, general laborers can excel in their roles and progress within the job field, potentially moving into more specialized and advanced positions.

two men assisting in construction
two men assisting in construction
5

FAQs about working as a general laborer

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about general laborers.

thank you for subscribing to your personalised job alerts.