Quick answer

Concrete work moves fast once the truck arrives. Preparation is everything. In short: check; wet; place, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

Check that forms are secure and level and that the base is compacted.
Wet the base slightly if dry so it doesn’t pull water from the concrete.
Place concrete close to its final position: don’t drag it long distances.
Spread with a come-along or rake and consolidate to remove air pockets.
Screed the surface with a straightedge resting on the forms.
Bull float to smooth the surface, then wait for bleed water to evaporate before final finishing.
Edge, joint and broom finish as specified, then begin curing.

Safety reminders for construction laborers

Never enter a trench five feet or deeper without a protective system approved by a competent person
Use fall protection at heights of six feet or more on construction sites
Wear high-visibility apparel near traffic and moving equipment
Control silica dust with water or vacuums and wear respiratory protection when required

OSHA 10 · Competent person · Trench box · Shoring · Rebar · Formwork: see the full construction laborer glossary.