Construction Laborer FAQ

Usually not. Many employers hire entry-level laborers and train on the job, especially if you have OSHA 10 training and reliable transportation.

Specialize in concrete, pipe laying or hazardous materials, join a union apprenticeship, earn equipment certifications or move into a skilled trade.

It has more hazards than many jobs, but training, PPE and following procedures greatly reduce risk.

The median annual wage for construction laborers was $47,120 ($22.66 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,090 and the highest 10% earned more than $78,090.

Most people need about Days to weeks (on the job) of training. No formal education is required, though a high school diploma helps. Most laborers learn on the job; OSHA 10 training and flagger certification make you more hireable. Apprenticeships (such as through LIUNA) provide structured training and higher pay.

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +7.3% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 120,000 openings each year. Upsides include start quickly with little formal training; a common challenge is that physically demanding and tiring.

Key technical skills include job-site safety and hazard recognition, hand and power tool use, concrete placement and finishing basics, and trenching and excavation support. Employers also value reliability and punctuality, teamwork, and following directions.

Common credentials include OSHA 10-Hour Construction, Flagger certification, Scaffold user or erector training, and Forklift or equipment certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.