Laborers move products and raw materials in distribution and other industries. At many facilities, laborers load and unload shipping containers by hand or with the use of dollies or pallet jacks. In the construction field, laborers may place materials and prepare construction sites with scaffolding and barricades.
Skillset: Due to the physical strain that characterizes this field, candidates must be capable of lifting up to 100 pounds and carrying 50 or more pounds on a daily basis. The ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with managers is also essential.
Education: Formal education requirements are rare for laborer positions, but some jobs may require safety training from OSHA or specialized certification for hazardous materials. Most companies train laborers on the job. In the construction field, laborers often learn their positions through apprenticeships.
Career Path: Many laborers obtain their jobs by replying to job postings placed by employers or filing applications or resumes with companies and contractors. With additional certifications and skills learned on the job or in trade school programs, laborers can advance to senior positions in the field. Laborers who are bilingual or multilingual may also enjoy an advantage in the job market due to the commonly diverse workforce.
Update your browser to have a more positive job search experience.
Upgrade My Browser