Career roadmap
How to Become a Construction Laborer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a construction laborer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a construction laborer: (1) get basic safety training, (2) get work boots and PPE, (3) apply to contractors or a union, (4) learn on the job, (5) specialize or enter an apprenticeship. Most people need about Days to weeks (on the job). BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a construction laborer
Get basic safety training
Complete OSHA 10 Construction and a flagger course if available in your state.
Get work boots and PPE
Steel- or composite-toe boots, gloves and high-visibility gear are typical requirements.
Apply to contractors or a union
Construction companies, staffing agencies and laborers’ unions hire entry-level workers.
Learn on the job
Show up on time, learn the trades around you and ask for more responsibility.
Specialize or enter an apprenticeship
Move into concrete, pipe laying, equipment operation or a skilled trade.
Education and training requirements
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.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Days to weeks (on the job) |
Certifications and licenses
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction: Introductory safety training many employers and job sites require.
- Flagger certification: Many state DOTs require certified flaggers for work zone traffic control.
- Scaffold user or erector training: Covers safe use and assembly of scaffolding.
- Forklift or equipment certifications: Help laborers take on equipment operation.
Skills to build now
Start with job-site safety and hazard recognition, hand and power tool use, and concrete placement and finishing basics, and practice reliability and punctuality and teamwork. Learning the construction laborer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Construction Laborer: Support crews and learn the job site.
- Skilled Laborer or Specialist: Concrete, pipe laying, demolition or hazmat specialist.
- Apprentice in a Skilled Trade: Enter carpentry, operating engineers, ironwork or another trade.
- Foreman or Superintendent: Lead crews and manage job sites.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Construction Laborer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a construction laborer?
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.
Do you need a degree to be a construction laborer?
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.
What certifications are available for construction laborers?
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.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-2061 (Construction laborers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Construction laborers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.