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 youaverage 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.
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.
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.
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general laborer job description
What does a general laborer do? General laborers take on a wide range of duties and responsibilities, which may include:
- assisting with construction projects, such as carrying materials, setting up scaffolding, and operating machinery
- performing maintenance tasks, like repairing equipment, conducting inspections, and ensuring facilities are in optimal condition
- participating in warehouse operations, handling inventory, and loading and unloading shipments
- maintaining outdoor spaces through landscaping tasks like mowing lawns, planting, and pruning
- contributing to manufacturing processes, operating machinery, and assembling products
- assisting in demolition projects, safely tearing down structures, and handling debris removal
- keeping indoor spaces clean and sanitized as janitorial and cleaning laborers
- contributing to agricultural work, including planting, harvesting, and crop tending
- working on road construction projects, assisting with pavement and asphalt work, and ensuring road safety measures are met
General laborers are adaptable, physically capable, and crucial to the success of various projects across multiple industries.
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general laborer work environment
General laborers may work in diverse environments, including indoor and outdoor settings. Depending on the job role, they could be found on construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, office buildings, farms, or outdoor landscapes. Some jobs involve travel to different locations, while others offer opportunities to work from home, especially in administrative or remote support roles.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on the employer and industry, general laborers may work alongside construction workers, supervisors, warehouse staff, maintenance technicians, landscapers, janitors, agricultural workers, and more. They may also collaborate closely with specialists like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other skilled tradespeople, depending on the nature of the project.
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work schedule
The work schedule for general laborers can vary based on the industry and job requirements. They may work full-time or part-time, with typical hours spanning various shifts. Some jobs may involve nights and weekends, especially in industries with continuous operations. Flexibility is essential, as certain projects or tasks may have deadlines that require overtime or irregular hours.
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job outlook for general laborers
The job outlook for general laborers remains steady, with opportunities available across different sectors. As construction, maintenance, manufacturing, and other industries continue to grow, there will be a consistent demand for skilled laborers to support these projects. Furthermore, the hands-on experience gained as a general laborer can serve as a stepping stone to various related job roles, such as skilled trades like electrician, carpenter, or HVAC technician, offering the potential for career advancement and higher-paying opportunities. Overall, a career as a general laborer provides a solid foundation for those seeking to excel in a dynamic and diverse job field.
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benefits of working for randstad as a general laborer
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a general laborer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
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.
FAQs about working as a general laborer
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about general laborers.
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what does a general laborer do?
General laborers perform various physical tasks in different industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. Their duties may include carrying materials, operating machinery, assisting skilled workers, and maintaining work areas.
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is formal education required to become a general laborer?
Formal education, like a high school diploma or equivalent, is often preferred but only sometimes required. Many general laborers gain practical skills through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational programs.
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are there any specific certifications needed for this job?
The certification requirements vary based on the specialization and industry. Some specialized roles, such as operating heavy machinery or handling hazardous materials, may require specific certifications or licenses.
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what are the typical work hours for a general laborer?
General laborers may work full-time or part-time, depending on the job and employer. They may also have flexible schedules, especially in industries that operate around the clock.
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can a career as a general laborer lead to advancement opportunities?
Yes, a career as a general laborer could offer opportunities for advancement. With experience and additional certifications or training, some individuals may progress into specialized roles within the same industry, such as becoming a skilled tradesperson or a supervisor.
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how do I find a job as a general laborer?
Applying for a general laborer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our financial analyst jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state of the art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
